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Holding Out for A Hero #3
Flash Point
One taste of her lips, and friendship is off the menu.
Kate has always been everybody’s friend and the de-facto little sister to the Wyatt brothers. But her feelings for Todd Wyatt, the town’s hottest firefighter, run far beyond the sibling variety. Not that he’s ever noticed.
After years of nursing her crush, Kate decides it’s time to take action. Except she has one awkward little secret: she’s still a virgin. She hopes she can seduce Todd without him realizing just how inexperienced she is.
In Todd’s mind, Kate’s the sweet girl he teases and hits up for free cupcakes. One surprise kiss over the summer, though, and suddenly she’s jumped from the platonic side of his brain to the want-her-in-my-bed side. Even though the last thing he wants is to lose her friendship, his resistance to her determined seduction is slipping. Fast.
When malicious attacks on her bakery escalate, it soon becomes clear that for all Kate’s friends, she’s made at least one big enemy. And if they don’t figure it out soon, things could take a deadly turn.
Kate has always been everybody’s friend and the de-facto little sister to the Wyatt brothers. But her feelings for Todd Wyatt, the town’s hottest firefighter, run far beyond the sibling variety. Not that he’s ever noticed.
After years of nursing her crush, Kate decides it’s time to take action. Except she has one awkward little secret: she’s still a virgin. She hopes she can seduce Todd without him realizing just how inexperienced she is.
In Todd’s mind, Kate’s the sweet girl he teases and hits up for free cupcakes. One surprise kiss over the summer, though, and suddenly she’s jumped from the platonic side of his brain to the want-her-in-my-bed side. Even though the last thing he wants is to lose her friendship, his resistance to her determined seduction is slipping. Fast.
When malicious attacks on her bakery escalate, it soon becomes clear that for all Kate’s friends, she’s made at least one big enemy. And if they don’t figure it out soon, things could take a deadly turn.
92 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 6, 2011
28 people are currently reading
679 people want to read
About the author
Shelli Stevens
71 books735 followersShelli is a New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author who read her first romance novel when she snatched it off her mother’s bookshelf at the age of eleven. She is a true pluviophile (lover of rain) who currently lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two daughters. She loves Disney, taking sunset pics (follow her on Instagram), baking, nature walking, and spontaneously bursting into song. She’s written various genres of romance, but is most known for her contemporary series such as The McLaughlins, The Bro Code, Marshall Ranch, and A is for Alpha.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
March 11, 2011
The best book of the series. Would've been perfect if it hadn't ended so abruptly, or if it had an epilogue.
Todd is the youngest (28?) of the Wyatt brothers of small town Wyattsville, Oregon. Sexy Todd's a firefighter, and to put it bluntly--a man-whore. For reasons that have to do with a woman from his past, Todd doesn't do relationships. A night or two in his bed is all you'll get from Todd, and then it's on to the next woman (or as older brother Tyson crudely put it:
"It's been a week, Todd. Shouldn't you be moving on to the next vagina by now?"
Twenty-five year old curvy cutie Kate, is owner of local bakery, Kate's Cakes. Kate has been friends with Todd and his family for years, and has had a crush on Todd for years too. But even though Todd has been with every available woman in the area, he's always treated Kate as 'just a friend'. For reasons that have to do with an incident in her past, Kate's still a virgin. She knows who she'd like to give her virginity to, but it seems like he'll never be interested in her. There is a widower (Walt) who's interested in her, but he does nothing for her libido. It's Todd she wants, but how can she get him to notice her as more than a friend? Even the drunken kiss she laid on him at friend Ellie's (Going Down) bachelorette party didn't seem to register. Is she destined for a future with someone like dull Walt while the man she longs for remains out of her reach?
Todd...
Kate doesn't know it, but the kiss she gave to Todd did have an effect on him. It's got him looking at Kate in a new light, and wondering what could be...But everyone's warning him away from Kate, including his brother and sister-in-law. No one wants to see Kate hurt, and with Todd's love-'em-and-leave-'em reputation, that's bound to happen. But Kate's determined to have whatever she can get from Todd (even if it is only one night), and sets out to make it happen on New Year's Eve. Will this be the start of a real relationship, or is Kate destined for some big heartbreak?
Loved these two together! Even though the book was short, it worked and was believable because Kate and Todd had a friendly relationship in the previous two books, and the reader has already had a chance to get to know them a bit. Kate was extremely relatable, the kind of girl you could imagine as your friend, and you'll be rooting for her to land the sexy firefighter who was surprisingly vulnerable beneath his Casanova exterior. And the heat they generated? Oh me oh my...Todd wanted to teach Kate pleasure and passion, and make no mistake--he did! Their love scenes were white hot. And to think all it took for Todd to stand up and take notice was Kate dressed as Little Red Riding Hood...
Kate as Red Riding Hood...
I have to mention that there was a bit of a suspense subplot in this one as well. Someone's been vandalizing Kate's business, and there's a couple of suspects the author wants you to consider. But this played out as I imagined...which means for once I wasn't fooled.:) But no matter, this story didn't need a suspense plot to make it enjoyable--Kate and Todd and their hawt relationship was all that was needed. And they delivered in spades!
My only quibbles were this: I thought the story ended rather abruptly--I was looking for an epilogue, and since this was the last book in the series, I was bummed that I'm not going to see this couple again and see how they're doing.:( Also, I was a little surprised that something that happened to Todd 10 years ago (which didn't seem all that traumatic) shaped the man that he became in regards to his relationships with women.
So, if you enjoy romances with a girl-next-door type and a good guy with a bad reputation, then this one's for you. It was steamy hot, it was fast paced, and it worked! 4 1/2 stars
Todd is the youngest (28?) of the Wyatt brothers of small town Wyattsville, Oregon. Sexy Todd's a firefighter, and to put it bluntly--a man-whore. For reasons that have to do with a woman from his past, Todd doesn't do relationships. A night or two in his bed is all you'll get from Todd, and then it's on to the next woman (or as older brother Tyson crudely put it:
"It's been a week, Todd. Shouldn't you be moving on to the next vagina by now?"
Twenty-five year old curvy cutie Kate, is owner of local bakery, Kate's Cakes. Kate has been friends with Todd and his family for years, and has had a crush on Todd for years too. But even though Todd has been with every available woman in the area, he's always treated Kate as 'just a friend'. For reasons that have to do with an incident in her past, Kate's still a virgin. She knows who she'd like to give her virginity to, but it seems like he'll never be interested in her. There is a widower (Walt) who's interested in her, but he does nothing for her libido. It's Todd she wants, but how can she get him to notice her as more than a friend? Even the drunken kiss she laid on him at friend Ellie's (Going Down) bachelorette party didn't seem to register. Is she destined for a future with someone like dull Walt while the man she longs for remains out of her reach?
Todd...
Kate doesn't know it, but the kiss she gave to Todd did have an effect on him. It's got him looking at Kate in a new light, and wondering what could be...But everyone's warning him away from Kate, including his brother and sister-in-law. No one wants to see Kate hurt, and with Todd's love-'em-and-leave-'em reputation, that's bound to happen. But Kate's determined to have whatever she can get from Todd (even if it is only one night), and sets out to make it happen on New Year's Eve. Will this be the start of a real relationship, or is Kate destined for some big heartbreak?
Loved these two together! Even though the book was short, it worked and was believable because Kate and Todd had a friendly relationship in the previous two books, and the reader has already had a chance to get to know them a bit. Kate was extremely relatable, the kind of girl you could imagine as your friend, and you'll be rooting for her to land the sexy firefighter who was surprisingly vulnerable beneath his Casanova exterior. And the heat they generated? Oh me oh my...Todd wanted to teach Kate pleasure and passion, and make no mistake--he did! Their love scenes were white hot. And to think all it took for Todd to stand up and take notice was Kate dressed as Little Red Riding Hood...
Kate as Red Riding Hood...
I have to mention that there was a bit of a suspense subplot in this one as well. Someone's been vandalizing Kate's business, and there's a couple of suspects the author wants you to consider. But this played out as I imagined...which means for once I wasn't fooled.:) But no matter, this story didn't need a suspense plot to make it enjoyable--Kate and Todd and their hawt relationship was all that was needed. And they delivered in spades!
My only quibbles were this: I thought the story ended rather abruptly--I was looking for an epilogue, and since this was the last book in the series, I was bummed that I'm not going to see this couple again and see how they're doing.:( Also, I was a little surprised that something that happened to Todd 10 years ago (which didn't seem all that traumatic) shaped the man that he became in regards to his relationships with women.
So, if you enjoy romances with a girl-next-door type and a good guy with a bad reputation, then this one's for you. It was steamy hot, it was fast paced, and it worked! 4 1/2 stars
January 22, 2013
Really good story... all the way til the end and then, the Author did something that is a 'deal-breaker' for me... SHE ENDED ABRUPTLY!
.. not even a bloody epilogue!
So disappointed in the last book of this series, because "I do love me some HEA'S" (which this had), but I felt ripped off!
.. not even a bloody epilogue!
So disappointed in the last book of this series, because "I do love me some HEA'S" (which this had), but I felt ripped off!
July 29, 2019
Kate and Todd have been friends for years and Kate has always harbored a crush on Todd but has never had the courage to pursue him. And with his reputation as a confirmed bachelor, I don’t really blame her.
Todd has been burned in the past and since then doesn’t offer any woman more than a few nights. He’s always liked Kate but has never been tempted to take things further. He knows she deserves more than he can give her and over the years, has come to love their easy friendship and doesn’t want to risk ruining that.
But when Kate takes things into her own hands, the sparks fly between these two.
Except Kate hasn’t just caught Todd’s attention. There’s someone else determined to claim her and he won’t take no for an answer.
Shelli Stevens knows how to write sweet and steamy with a touch of mystery and suspense. This is the second book I’ve read by this author and although I didn’t like it as much as the first book (Dangerous Grounds), it was really well written and the chemistry between the MCs jumps right off the pages.
Would I recommend? If you like your romance with a bit of suspense and a dash of danger, this author might be worth a look at :)
Although I liked both MCs, the fact that Todd has hooked up with a lot of women and Kate knows this, first hand, was cringe-worthy. I don’t mind guys with experience but when it’s mentioned over and over again? Yeah, not so much.
I really wished Kate would have made Todd grovel a lot more than he did. I felt like she forgave him way too easily and his declaration came too fast after her near death experience to sit well with me. #justsaying
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
Todd has been burned in the past and since then doesn’t offer any woman more than a few nights. He’s always liked Kate but has never been tempted to take things further. He knows she deserves more than he can give her and over the years, has come to love their easy friendship and doesn’t want to risk ruining that.
But when Kate takes things into her own hands, the sparks fly between these two.
Except Kate hasn’t just caught Todd’s attention. There’s someone else determined to claim her and he won’t take no for an answer.
Shelli Stevens knows how to write sweet and steamy with a touch of mystery and suspense. This is the second book I’ve read by this author and although I didn’t like it as much as the first book (Dangerous Grounds), it was really well written and the chemistry between the MCs jumps right off the pages.
Would I recommend? If you like your romance with a bit of suspense and a dash of danger, this author might be worth a look at :)
Although I liked both MCs, the fact that Todd has hooked up with a lot of women and Kate knows this, first hand, was cringe-worthy. I don’t mind guys with experience but when it’s mentioned over and over again? Yeah, not so much.
... how many women had firsthand knowledge of just how talented Todd Wyatt was with his mouth and tongue? A damn good amount of them that was for sure.
She shouldn’t been repulsed by his womanizer reputation, and yet, it almost fascinated her.
… that was all he did. Playing musical beds like it was an Olympic event.
“I don’t like walking around town and wondering what women you’ve slept with and who will be next after me.”
I really wished Kate would have made Todd grovel a lot more than he did. I felt like she forgave him way too easily and his declaration came too fast after her near death experience to sit well with me. #justsaying
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
August 13, 2013
Well the third Wyatt brother certainly did not disappoint... another hot steamy ride on the Wyatt train and I enjoyed it... All 3 books went quick.. I read them back to back in about two days. All three could easly be read in one afternoon with no distractions. I enjoyed them all
July 8, 2019
After a full night of decent sleep, I finally feel like I can suppress my inner snark enough to write this review. I hope.
Kate and Todd have known each other for years. She’s always had a crush on him, but he sees her as a little sister. When Kate decides it’s past time for her to be with a man (she’s still a virgin at 25), she picks Todd “Love-em and leave-em, no relationships ever” Wyatt for the deed.
There’s also this (marginally unnecessary) side plot dealing with Kate’s bakery and vandalism.
I’m not generally a fan of the friends-to-lovers trope. I get tired of all the repeated “we’ll ruin our friendships” and “he/she doesn’t/will never feel about me the way I feel about them” blah blah blah. And for the first several pages of Flash Point it looked like the reader is in for the same. But thank the writing gods that’s not how it went down! I was happy.
The happy was short lived.
When the hero decides he can’t be with the heroine, he goes looking for another woman to be with. Any woman will do.
Isn't that charming. And I’m SO not a fan of that kind of “hero”.
To make matters worse, Todd finds this “other” woman at a party and starts hitting on her - without even knowing who she is - by walking up behind her, whispering suggestively into her ear while putting his hand on her hip, then slides it around to her stomach to pull her to him.
Alert, alert. Danger Will Robinson.
This book was originally published about eight years ago and is newly re-released. In the current age of #metoo and with the awareness of the importance of consent being such a huge thing right now, you’d think the author would have made some tweaks to the book to make it not so icky. I repeat, he does this to someone he believes is a complete stranger to him.
In my opinion, you’re a putz if you think “I need to find another woman to screw” and you’re a total schmuck if you actually actively go after that other woman.
This is also another case of a toddler hero who only wants a woman when another man shows interest. I haven’t disliked a toddler hero so much since the last time I read about one...which happened to be this “hero’s” older brother.
On the flip side, I liked the heroine. She knew what she wanted and went after it. I think she made a poor selection, but whatever. The heart wants what the heart wants. But she didn’t let Todd get away with crap and called him on it. I liked how she was open and honest about her feelings and was willing to walk away when Todd wouldn’t give a relationship a chance. So at least the book wasn’t without some redemptive aspects.
Maybe I’m in a mood. Maybe I’m not. But I don’t think I’m going to read this author anymore. Her writing is fine, but I don’t like the heroes and I don’t find their behavior - or anything about them - the least bit romantic. And I’m not usually one to be so worked up over characters! I think this author is just not for me. (And also needs to go on my Done With This Author list.)
* thank you to NetGalley and Tule Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
Kate and Todd have known each other for years. She’s always had a crush on him, but he sees her as a little sister. When Kate decides it’s past time for her to be with a man (she’s still a virgin at 25), she picks Todd “Love-em and leave-em, no relationships ever” Wyatt for the deed.
There’s also this (marginally unnecessary) side plot dealing with Kate’s bakery and vandalism.
I’m not generally a fan of the friends-to-lovers trope. I get tired of all the repeated “we’ll ruin our friendships” and “he/she doesn’t/will never feel about me the way I feel about them” blah blah blah. And for the first several pages of Flash Point it looked like the reader is in for the same. But thank the writing gods that’s not how it went down! I was happy.
The happy was short lived.
When the hero decides he can’t be with the heroine, he goes looking for another woman to be with. Any woman will do.
Isn't that charming. And I’m SO not a fan of that kind of “hero”.
To make matters worse, Todd finds this “other” woman at a party and starts hitting on her - without even knowing who she is - by walking up behind her, whispering suggestively into her ear while putting his hand on her hip, then slides it around to her stomach to pull her to him.
Alert, alert. Danger Will Robinson.
This book was originally published about eight years ago and is newly re-released. In the current age of #metoo and with the awareness of the importance of consent being such a huge thing right now, you’d think the author would have made some tweaks to the book to make it not so icky. I repeat, he does this to someone he believes is a complete stranger to him.
In my opinion, you’re a putz if you think “I need to find another woman to screw” and you’re a total schmuck if you actually actively go after that other woman.
This is also another case of a toddler hero who only wants a woman when another man shows interest. I haven’t disliked a toddler hero so much since the last time I read about one...which happened to be this “hero’s” older brother.
On the flip side, I liked the heroine. She knew what she wanted and went after it. I think she made a poor selection, but whatever. The heart wants what the heart wants. But she didn’t let Todd get away with crap and called him on it. I liked how she was open and honest about her feelings and was willing to walk away when Todd wouldn’t give a relationship a chance. So at least the book wasn’t without some redemptive aspects.
Maybe I’m in a mood. Maybe I’m not. But I don’t think I’m going to read this author anymore. Her writing is fine, but I don’t like the heroes and I don’t find their behavior - or anything about them - the least bit romantic. And I’m not usually one to be so worked up over characters! I think this author is just not for me. (And also needs to go on my Done With This Author list.)
* thank you to NetGalley and Tule Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
July 19, 2019
I love a good contemporary romance that is sweet, fun and easy. I admit that it has been some time that I've read a contemporary romance that is not dark/angsty/steamy. (Ahem, don't get me wrong, there's enough steam in this one, but it's not JUST steam.)
I love the setting of the story. I'm a sucker for anything that involves bakery and even though the story doesn't exactly take place a whole lot in the bakery, Kate's a baker. That's already a plus point, as far as I'm concerned.
I'd considered this almost drama-free, which is precisely what I needed at the time of writing. So I read this story at a perfect time which probably contributes to my affinity to Kate and the story as a whole. But honestly, there's very little thing to NOT like about this story. It's short, but the pace is appropriate enough for you to be convinced of their romance.
Thank you Netgalley and Tule Publishing for the online copy. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
I love the setting of the story. I'm a sucker for anything that involves bakery and even though the story doesn't exactly take place a whole lot in the bakery, Kate's a baker. That's already a plus point, as far as I'm concerned.
I'd considered this almost drama-free, which is precisely what I needed at the time of writing. So I read this story at a perfect time which probably contributes to my affinity to Kate and the story as a whole. But honestly, there's very little thing to NOT like about this story. It's short, but the pace is appropriate enough for you to be convinced of their romance.
Thank you Netgalley and Tule Publishing for the online copy. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
October 10, 2019
That was a hot and steamy quick read!
I loved it from start to finish, only bad thing is that it ended so fast! I wanted more!
But suddenly got 5 years later, that was a little sad. But oh well!
I loved it from start to finish, only bad thing is that it ended so fast! I wanted more!
But suddenly got 5 years later, that was a little sad. But oh well!
May 1, 2011
3 1/2 Stars
After reading the first two books in this series I was eager to see how Shelli Stevens was going to pull off a story with the sweet, innocent cupcake making queen Katie and the local town hottie, bad boy firefighter Todd Wyatt.
Kate’s had a major crush on the youngest Wyatt for a number of years and while she isn’t exactly the type to sleep around (ummm try like never), that’s all Todd does...plays musical beds like it’s an Olympic sport. Not exactly something to be proud of, yet it’s Todd’s claim to fame in Wyattville.
I’m generally not a fan of the girl whose been hiding her feelings for the boy for years stories. I like the girl to at least play a little hard to get and make him work for it. I was hoping I wasn’t going to be disappointed.
Todd’s like a fixture at Kate’s little shop, hanging around trying to mooch free chocolate cupcakes and a refill of coffee but he’s never really noticed Kate as a sexual being. That is until he sees another man taking an interest in her and Kate shows him a different side when he crashes a bridal shower for Ellie (from book 1 Going Down and my favorite book of the series).
Kate is darn tired of her virginity hanging over her head and she’s determined to lose it to I’m not boyfriend material, if there was an Olympic Gold Metal in meaningless boning it would go to none other that Todd Wyatt.
Ohhh Katie - is this such a good idea?
Kate with Ellie’s prodding devises a plan to force Todd’s hand...errr or another manly appendage.
The New Year’s Eve costume party complete with Todd in a Tarzan costume...briefs and a loincloth had me LOLing. I mean really - just take a moment and picture it. Ripped body, little briefs and a loincloth covering the package. Only Todd would be confident enough to pull that outfit off.
Kate’s skimpy, sexy little Red Riding Hood outfit had Tarzan beating on his...chest and ahhhhhhh ahahaahhhhh (insert the real Tarzan yell here) and well you get the picture.
All is not smooth sailing between Todd and Kate - especially once he finds out about her “secret”. He’s madder than a wet hen but after thinking it over, decides to tutor Kate so she can benefit from his vast experience of pleasing the ladies.
To add to the drama, throw in someone in town threatening Kate and her livelihood and as an added bonus she gets to live out every girl’s fantasy of being rescued by a sexy firefighter.
Kiss Me Kate! I was waiting the entire story for Todd to utter those famous words to Kate. Did he or didn’t he? I’m not telling.
Overall I enjoyed Kate and Todd’s story and Flashpoint was a good solid read.
After reading the first two books in this series I was eager to see how Shelli Stevens was going to pull off a story with the sweet, innocent cupcake making queen Katie and the local town hottie, bad boy firefighter Todd Wyatt.
Kate’s had a major crush on the youngest Wyatt for a number of years and while she isn’t exactly the type to sleep around (ummm try like never), that’s all Todd does...plays musical beds like it’s an Olympic sport. Not exactly something to be proud of, yet it’s Todd’s claim to fame in Wyattville.
I’m generally not a fan of the girl whose been hiding her feelings for the boy for years stories. I like the girl to at least play a little hard to get and make him work for it. I was hoping I wasn’t going to be disappointed.
Todd’s like a fixture at Kate’s little shop, hanging around trying to mooch free chocolate cupcakes and a refill of coffee but he’s never really noticed Kate as a sexual being. That is until he sees another man taking an interest in her and Kate shows him a different side when he crashes a bridal shower for Ellie (from book 1 Going Down and my favorite book of the series).
Kate is darn tired of her virginity hanging over her head and she’s determined to lose it to I’m not boyfriend material, if there was an Olympic Gold Metal in meaningless boning it would go to none other that Todd Wyatt.
Ohhh Katie - is this such a good idea?
Kate with Ellie’s prodding devises a plan to force Todd’s hand...errr or another manly appendage.
The New Year’s Eve costume party complete with Todd in a Tarzan costume...briefs and a loincloth had me LOLing. I mean really - just take a moment and picture it. Ripped body, little briefs and a loincloth covering the package. Only Todd would be confident enough to pull that outfit off.
Kate’s skimpy, sexy little Red Riding Hood outfit had Tarzan beating on his...chest and ahhhhhhh ahahaahhhhh (insert the real Tarzan yell here) and well you get the picture.
All is not smooth sailing between Todd and Kate - especially once he finds out about her “secret”. He’s madder than a wet hen but after thinking it over, decides to tutor Kate so she can benefit from his vast experience of pleasing the ladies.
To add to the drama, throw in someone in town threatening Kate and her livelihood and as an added bonus she gets to live out every girl’s fantasy of being rescued by a sexy firefighter.
Kiss Me Kate! I was waiting the entire story for Todd to utter those famous words to Kate. Did he or didn’t he? I’m not telling.
Overall I enjoyed Kate and Todd’s story and Flashpoint was a good solid read.
June 25, 2025
I really, really loved this story. I love the whole virgin and playboy theme. Kate was the virgin who has had a crush on Todd Wyatt forever, but apparently he's out to screw the entire female population of the North Pacific and is only after one night stands and does date or do relationships. I loved the story of the book, but the ending to me dropped this book from 5 stars to 4 because I thought it wrapped everything up too nicely and that Kate took Todd back too quickly.
July 15, 2019
This is fairly tame for an erotic romance, more romantic than erotic, but a suspenseful plot and attractive, realistic characters make for an enjoyable read. Kate and Todd are an unlikely couple at first, but the reader soon sees that they have much in common and a deep friendship that coupled with attraction, will lead to more than the fling they both claim they want. There is an interesting subplot involving several attacks on the bakery, and a cast of characters that will make you want to read the rest of the series. I really enjoyed this story.
Maura
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
Full Review @ Coffee Time Romance & More
Maura
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
Full Review @ Coffee Time Romance & More
March 8, 2012
This is a score sheet review.
For the full review with scores please visit MBR's Realm of Romance
Score Sheet Summary:
Flash Point is a novella that I have been meaning to read for quite sometime. Almost a year to the date that it was first published, I managed to find some time to squeeze this novella in between some of my heavy reads and I enjoyed the escape that Shelli Stevens provided with this red-hot novella which combines elements of friends turning into lovers with a hero who is commitment phobic to the extreme and a heroine who is sunny, bubbly and vivacious as they come.
Todd Wyatt might want to go on thinking of Kate as a younger sister. But something vital in their relationship seems to have shifted after that tentative kiss that Kate had placed on him 5 months back and for the world of him Todd cannot seem to get the kiss out of his mind.
Kate has been half in love with Todd almost all her adult life, no wonder when Todd is the type of man that every woman in the vicinity wants to tame and call their own. But Kate knows that Todd is not the type for a long term relationship, but even that doesn’t stop her from staking her claim and taking anything and everything that Todd is ready and willing to give, even if it means that Kate would have to walk away nursing a broken heart when all is said and done.
I loved this installment of the Holding Out for a Hero series. Todd is a fireman who has got his own set of insecurities to deal with and the best thing about him was his possessiveness when it comes to Kate, which even he cannot explain. Kate was just lovely, a heroine that I utterly adored in all the ways.
Highly recommended, this is a novella best read after at least reading book 2 in the series, Command and Control which was the book that intrigued me to look up Todd and Kate’s story.
Rating=4.25/5
Quotes included below.
For the full review with scores please visit MBR's Realm of Romance
Score Sheet Summary:
Flash Point is a novella that I have been meaning to read for quite sometime. Almost a year to the date that it was first published, I managed to find some time to squeeze this novella in between some of my heavy reads and I enjoyed the escape that Shelli Stevens provided with this red-hot novella which combines elements of friends turning into lovers with a hero who is commitment phobic to the extreme and a heroine who is sunny, bubbly and vivacious as they come.
Todd Wyatt might want to go on thinking of Kate as a younger sister. But something vital in their relationship seems to have shifted after that tentative kiss that Kate had placed on him 5 months back and for the world of him Todd cannot seem to get the kiss out of his mind.
Kate has been half in love with Todd almost all her adult life, no wonder when Todd is the type of man that every woman in the vicinity wants to tame and call their own. But Kate knows that Todd is not the type for a long term relationship, but even that doesn’t stop her from staking her claim and taking anything and everything that Todd is ready and willing to give, even if it means that Kate would have to walk away nursing a broken heart when all is said and done.
I loved this installment of the Holding Out for a Hero series. Todd is a fireman who has got his own set of insecurities to deal with and the best thing about him was his possessiveness when it comes to Kate, which even he cannot explain. Kate was just lovely, a heroine that I utterly adored in all the ways.
Highly recommended, this is a novella best read after at least reading book 2 in the series, Command and Control which was the book that intrigued me to look up Todd and Kate’s story.
Rating=4.25/5
Quotes included below.
January 15, 2012
Flash Point (Holding Out for A Hero #3)
by Shelli Stevens
If you have NOT read books 1, Going Down, and 2, Command and Control, of this series, WHY HAVEN”T YOU!?! Oh, for goodness sakes, you must read the first two so you can meet the two older brothers to our Flash Point hero, Todd Wyatt and his cupcake dealer, Kate.
Kate is local home town girl who has been a friend to the Wyatt family forever, and has had a crush on Todd for almost that long. Owning a successful bakery in town, she stays busy tempting everyone’s sweet tooth, especially Todd’s. Kate soon finds herself the victim of some not so funny pranks that worry Todd, and he finds himself more upset by the comfort that she receives from the shop owner next door.
Kate is tired of waiting for Todd to see her as more than his cupcake supplier and honorary sister /friend and makes plans to seduce the man she loves, and to finally give herself to a man. The question is, will her heart survive?
Hometown boy. The youngest of three All American boys. Fireman. Todd has everything going for him. His reputation speaks for itself, he can have any woman he wants, and does, and he veers far and wide from relationships. That is until a drunken kiss by his longtime friend, ate, now he can’t stop thinking about her. His feelings become clouded after her total seduction of him and she finds herself in danger. Will our hero fire fighter find a blazing love, or will he extinguish her feelings forever?
*****************************************************************
by Shelli Stevens
If you have NOT read books 1, Going Down, and 2, Command and Control, of this series, WHY HAVEN”T YOU!?! Oh, for goodness sakes, you must read the first two so you can meet the two older brothers to our Flash Point hero, Todd Wyatt and his cupcake dealer, Kate.
Kate is local home town girl who has been a friend to the Wyatt family forever, and has had a crush on Todd for almost that long. Owning a successful bakery in town, she stays busy tempting everyone’s sweet tooth, especially Todd’s. Kate soon finds herself the victim of some not so funny pranks that worry Todd, and he finds himself more upset by the comfort that she receives from the shop owner next door.
Kate is tired of waiting for Todd to see her as more than his cupcake supplier and honorary sister /friend and makes plans to seduce the man she loves, and to finally give herself to a man. The question is, will her heart survive?
Hometown boy. The youngest of three All American boys. Fireman. Todd has everything going for him. His reputation speaks for itself, he can have any woman he wants, and does, and he veers far and wide from relationships. That is until a drunken kiss by his longtime friend, ate, now he can’t stop thinking about her. His feelings become clouded after her total seduction of him and she finds herself in danger. Will our hero fire fighter find a blazing love, or will he extinguish her feelings forever?
*****************************************************************
August 14, 2011
After reading Shelli Stevens'
Negligee Behavior
, which I really recommend, I was very excited to read her backlist. Negligee Behavior is her foray into mainstream romance, but I was aware that all her previous work was classified as erotica / romantica. Frankly, after reading Flash Point, I was a little surprised by that, because it didn't seem anymore erotic or sexy than some other novellas I've read which are considered contemporary romance stories. There was some sizzle, but I've read hotter.
I actually thought this story had great potential, because Stevens created interesting characters and subplots. However, she either should have made this a book so that these could be fully explored, or she should should have edited out and simplified some things to keep it a novella. In such a short amount of space, it felt like too much was being packed in and that we were having to rush through it all.
I actually thought this story had great potential, because Stevens created interesting characters and subplots. However, she either should have made this a book so that these could be fully explored, or she should should have edited out and simplified some things to keep it a novella. In such a short amount of space, it felt like too much was being packed in and that we were having to rush through it all.
September 27, 2014
This is the 3rd in the series and while I did not enjoy it as much as the first 2, it is still a solid 3 stars.
I do like the whole "girl next door been in love with the hunk for years" thing and her finally getting her man.
It had quite a lot going on, Kate and Todd and Todd's realisation as to what and who Kate could mean to him. I think the addition of the "villain" was unnecessary, other than a contrived way to make the hero realise how much the heroine means to him. And the villain is obvious as soon as they appeared.
It ended rather abruptly after the inevitable "I Love You's" and as this was at 85% on my kindle, I turned the page expecting an epilogue or just a bit more, but there wasn't, which was disappointing.
I do like the whole "girl next door been in love with the hunk for years" thing and her finally getting her man.
It had quite a lot going on, Kate and Todd and Todd's realisation as to what and who Kate could mean to him. I think the addition of the "villain" was unnecessary, other than a contrived way to make the hero realise how much the heroine means to him. And the villain is obvious as soon as they appeared.
It ended rather abruptly after the inevitable "I Love You's" and as this was at 85% on my kindle, I turned the page expecting an epilogue or just a bit more, but there wasn't, which was disappointing.
December 26, 2016
I have read all three of the series, so this is for all of them. The writing was smooth without grammatical errors and the punctuation was alright. The last few books I've read were almost unreadable,so points for that. I have to agree with some of the other reviewers. None of them were long enough to really flesh out the characters. Perhaps I'm too old, but these men didn't respect women, especially the youngest. I felt the dialogue didn't really add up, some of the responses and actions from the women to the situations the men put them in could only exist in the author's mind. I don't know any women who would say or act the way these women did unless they were given a script to read from.
July 9, 2019
Flash Point by Shelli Stevens
One taste of her lips, and friendship is off the menu
Kate has always been everybody’s friend and the de-facto little sister to the Wyatt brothers. But her feelings for Todd Wyatt, the town’s hottest firefighter, never skirted the sibling zone. Not that he’s ever noticed.
After years of nursing her crush, Kate decides to take action, hoping to hide her one awkward secret—she’s a virgin. Can she seduce Todd and keep her inexperience a secret?
In Todd’s mind, Kate’s always been the sweet girl he teases and hits up for free cupcakes. Until one surprise kiss over the summer jumps her from the platonic side of his brain to the want-her-in-my-bed side. The last thing he wants is to lose her friendship, but his resistance to her determined seduction is slipping. Fast.
When her bakery is vandalized and the attacks escalate, it becomes clear that for all Kate’s friends, she’s made at least one serious enemy. Can Todd and Kate solve the mystery before things turn deadly?
This is Kate and Todd's story.
Kate wrapped her peacoat tighter around her curves, slipped from her car, and rushed toward the front door of her shop.
The cold wind whipped blonde strands of her hair about her face, and she shoved them aside as she fumbled to unlock the shop door. When the key finally twisted she stepped inside and shut the door, a shiver running through her.
“It’s definitely winter,” she muttered, flipping on the lights.
In Todd’s mind, Kate’s always been the sweet girl he teases and hits up for free cupcakes. Until one surprise kiss over the summer jumps her from the platonic side of his brain to the want-her-in-my-bed side. The last thing he wants is to lose her friendship, but his resistance to her determined seduction is slipping. Fast.
Kate has always been everybody’s friend and the de-facto little sister to the Wyatt brothers. But her feelings for Todd Wyatt, the town’s hottest firefighter, never skirted the sibling zone. Not that he’s ever noticed.
“Well, aren’t you up early?” She hoped her voice didn’t sound as high pitched to him as it did to her.
Todd grinned, his broad shoulders and tall frame filling the entryway before he closed the door behind him.
“Just coming off a twenty-four-hour shift. Was heading home when I saw your lights on.”
Flash Point by Shelli Stevens is a 3 star book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Shelli's Books with Tule:
Protect Me, Cowboy
Marshall Ranch
The 78th Copper Mountain Rodeo
Falling for the Hometown Girl
Marshall Ranch
One More Round
The McLaughlins
Straight, No Chaser
The McLaughlins
Top Shelf
The McLaughlins
Last Call
The McLaughlins
Christmas Lights and Cowboy Nights
Marshall Ranch
One taste of her lips, and friendship is off the menu
Kate has always been everybody’s friend and the de-facto little sister to the Wyatt brothers. But her feelings for Todd Wyatt, the town’s hottest firefighter, never skirted the sibling zone. Not that he’s ever noticed.
After years of nursing her crush, Kate decides to take action, hoping to hide her one awkward secret—she’s a virgin. Can she seduce Todd and keep her inexperience a secret?
In Todd’s mind, Kate’s always been the sweet girl he teases and hits up for free cupcakes. Until one surprise kiss over the summer jumps her from the platonic side of his brain to the want-her-in-my-bed side. The last thing he wants is to lose her friendship, but his resistance to her determined seduction is slipping. Fast.
When her bakery is vandalized and the attacks escalate, it becomes clear that for all Kate’s friends, she’s made at least one serious enemy. Can Todd and Kate solve the mystery before things turn deadly?
This is Kate and Todd's story.
Kate wrapped her peacoat tighter around her curves, slipped from her car, and rushed toward the front door of her shop.
The cold wind whipped blonde strands of her hair about her face, and she shoved them aside as she fumbled to unlock the shop door. When the key finally twisted she stepped inside and shut the door, a shiver running through her.
“It’s definitely winter,” she muttered, flipping on the lights.
In Todd’s mind, Kate’s always been the sweet girl he teases and hits up for free cupcakes. Until one surprise kiss over the summer jumps her from the platonic side of his brain to the want-her-in-my-bed side. The last thing he wants is to lose her friendship, but his resistance to her determined seduction is slipping. Fast.
Kate has always been everybody’s friend and the de-facto little sister to the Wyatt brothers. But her feelings for Todd Wyatt, the town’s hottest firefighter, never skirted the sibling zone. Not that he’s ever noticed.
“Well, aren’t you up early?” She hoped her voice didn’t sound as high pitched to him as it did to her.
Todd grinned, his broad shoulders and tall frame filling the entryway before he closed the door behind him.
“Just coming off a twenty-four-hour shift. Was heading home when I saw your lights on.”
Flash Point by Shelli Stevens is a 3 star book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Shelli's Books with Tule:
Protect Me, Cowboy
Marshall Ranch
The 78th Copper Mountain Rodeo
Falling for the Hometown Girl
Marshall Ranch
One More Round
The McLaughlins
Straight, No Chaser
The McLaughlins
Top Shelf
The McLaughlins
Last Call
The McLaughlins
Christmas Lights and Cowboy Nights
Marshall Ranch
June 22, 2019
I haven't read the other books in this series, but fortunately, that didn't matter. This is quite a sweet little romance and I really enjoyed reading it. It is quite a quick read and was exactly what I was in the mood for.
The main characters, Todd and Kate are the kind of couple, or rather couple to be, that you often meet in this kind of romance books. Todd is a player, jumping from bed to bed while Kate, who has had a crush on him for years, has no sexual experience whatsoever. Although I enjoyed this story and the characters in it, I am beginning to struggle a bit with all of these virgins that need a man with heaps of experience to awaken them to the world of sex. It's not that that I mind so much, although I'd rather a few less innocent women in romance novels personally, it's the way people treat them. Lots of I'd have done things differently if I'd known. It might just be me, but I just find it quite patronising and annoying. I'd also like to see more couples with a similar level of experience, I know that this is probably down to society and the way that we view men and women, but do we always need the super experienced man and the pure as the driven snow woman?
This was an enjoyable read and I did like both of the main characters and was hoping that they would get their HEA. It was just the kind quick read that I was in the mood for right now.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The main characters, Todd and Kate are the kind of couple, or rather couple to be, that you often meet in this kind of romance books. Todd is a player, jumping from bed to bed while Kate, who has had a crush on him for years, has no sexual experience whatsoever. Although I enjoyed this story and the characters in it, I am beginning to struggle a bit with all of these virgins that need a man with heaps of experience to awaken them to the world of sex. It's not that that I mind so much, although I'd rather a few less innocent women in romance novels personally, it's the way people treat them. Lots of I'd have done things differently if I'd known. It might just be me, but I just find it quite patronising and annoying. I'd also like to see more couples with a similar level of experience, I know that this is probably down to society and the way that we view men and women, but do we always need the super experienced man and the pure as the driven snow woman?
This was an enjoyable read and I did like both of the main characters and was hoping that they would get their HEA. It was just the kind quick read that I was in the mood for right now.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
July 9, 2019
Flash Point by Shelli Stevens is the third book of the Wyatt brothers. It has a longtime crush at the heart of it. Not my favorite of tropes but it is not a love from afar kind of story. This works since it is also a “friends to lovers” story. Also a re-issue book but since I didn’t read the first release I can’t say if revisions were made.
Kate has the crush on Todd Wyatt. Now at twenty-five she decides to do something about it. I enjoyed seeing these two as longtime friends but Todd as a Casanova not so much. He was selling himself short over something that happened years ago. Early on he did remind me of the George Strait song, The Fireman but he redeemed himself by the end. Still Kate and Todd fit together well.
There is suspense in the vandalizing of Kate’s bakery, and even some competition for Todd, the hot fireman. It has suspense, longtime friends with amazing fire once the spark is lit and a HEA for the last brother making it the strongest stories of the three. An epilogue would have been a nice tie up of the series to see how the entire family was faring.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Kate has the crush on Todd Wyatt. Now at twenty-five she decides to do something about it. I enjoyed seeing these two as longtime friends but Todd as a Casanova not so much. He was selling himself short over something that happened years ago. Early on he did remind me of the George Strait song, The Fireman but he redeemed himself by the end. Still Kate and Todd fit together well.
There is suspense in the vandalizing of Kate’s bakery, and even some competition for Todd, the hot fireman. It has suspense, longtime friends with amazing fire once the spark is lit and a HEA for the last brother making it the strongest stories of the three. An epilogue would have been a nice tie up of the series to see how the entire family was faring.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 22, 2019
Absolutely loved this book. Read it in about 4 hours! Normally I tend to stay away from cliche firefighter stories, mainly because I feel like they’re over told. But I have to say, this one was amazing.
Kate: I love her character. I love that she’s innocent yet confident. She’s not written as a typical size zero and she’s okay with that. She’s spunky and isn’t afraid to call Todd out on his crap.
Todd: Well aside from the obvious fact that he sounds absolutely beautiful, he is deep down a genuinely good guy. Sure, he’s known as a womanizer, but he treats Kate well and makes sure he respects her.
I love seeing the internal battles they have with themselves throughout the book. I love the friends turned lovers plot. I love the fact that they both have situations from their pasts, that neither one knows about, that shaped them into who they were now. And I loved the added drama from the shop vandalism along with the twist of who the culprit is. (Although I have to say, it was slightly predictable.)
Definitely give this 5/5 and would recommend anyone read it!
Thank you to @netgalley for the free e-book in exchange for an honest review!
Kate: I love her character. I love that she’s innocent yet confident. She’s not written as a typical size zero and she’s okay with that. She’s spunky and isn’t afraid to call Todd out on his crap.
Todd: Well aside from the obvious fact that he sounds absolutely beautiful, he is deep down a genuinely good guy. Sure, he’s known as a womanizer, but he treats Kate well and makes sure he respects her.
I love seeing the internal battles they have with themselves throughout the book. I love the friends turned lovers plot. I love the fact that they both have situations from their pasts, that neither one knows about, that shaped them into who they were now. And I loved the added drama from the shop vandalism along with the twist of who the culprit is. (Although I have to say, it was slightly predictable.)
Definitely give this 5/5 and would recommend anyone read it!
Thank you to @netgalley for the free e-book in exchange for an honest review!
June 17, 2019
Friends-to-lovers trope has always been a favorite, adding in the unrequited love element always make it better. Flash Point, book 3, in the Holding out for a Hero series definitely has both.
After Kate plants a drunken kiss on Todd at an engagement party, that took place in a prior book, Todd has not been able to forget it. She has always been the little sister and even though he is a player, he never went there with her. Unfortunately, that is all he can think about, but he is still determined to fight it. However, Kate has other ideas, she wants to get rid of her virginity and decided Todd was the perfect person to help her with that. She knows he is not a relationship kind of guy and she was okay with it. Things definitely changes for Todd when all is revealed.
Kate and Todd’s story was sweet, cute and pretty steamy for a novella. The little bit of suspense added to Todd finally realizing what Kate meant to him. Overall, a great story.
Thank you Netgalley and Tule Publishing for the complimentary copy of Flash Point. All opinions are my own.
After Kate plants a drunken kiss on Todd at an engagement party, that took place in a prior book, Todd has not been able to forget it. She has always been the little sister and even though he is a player, he never went there with her. Unfortunately, that is all he can think about, but he is still determined to fight it. However, Kate has other ideas, she wants to get rid of her virginity and decided Todd was the perfect person to help her with that. She knows he is not a relationship kind of guy and she was okay with it. Things definitely changes for Todd when all is revealed.
Kate and Todd’s story was sweet, cute and pretty steamy for a novella. The little bit of suspense added to Todd finally realizing what Kate meant to him. Overall, a great story.
Thank you Netgalley and Tule Publishing for the complimentary copy of Flash Point. All opinions are my own.
July 16, 2019
Kate the owner of the bakery in the third book of the series, has always had a thing for Todd Wyatt the younger brother and firefighter. She does not think she has a chance because one she is still a virgin and two he is not looking at settling down. She is wanting a guy who is at least wanting that in the future. Now though she is having unexplained happenings at her bakery. A break-in, her front windows broken and other things. Todd helps but that is it. When Halloween rolls around with the help of her friend she is red riding hood, and she does get taken by the big bad wolf. Kate likes it but Todd is the one that freaked out. When he starts to ignore her she decides to go out with safe calm Walt. That actually gets the smoke alarm going with Todd but will he put out the fire or will he be left standing. This is a very good story with a twist at the end with who is vandalizing her store. See what happens between the two of them. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 4 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
July 9, 2019
Who would have thought that the womanizing firefighter and the innocent baker would fall into love and lust. That's exactly what happens in Flash Point, the third and final book in the Holding Out for a Hero series by author Shelli Stevens. This story takes place in the small, coastal town of Wyattsville, Oregon, and the Wyatt brothers are the stars along with a great cast of characters.
Todd and Kate have known each other since childhood. They are friends, however, Kate has secretly crushed on Todd for years. They share a kiss a while back, which ends up having a lot of meaning to both of them. Their friendship develops into a hot fling, which turns into much more when they almost lose each other.
This is a engrossing read, and the author balances the plot and sexy times with ease. Overall, this is a well-written friends to lovers romance with a captivating couple and a neighbor who is full of surprises.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
Todd and Kate have known each other since childhood. They are friends, however, Kate has secretly crushed on Todd for years. They share a kiss a while back, which ends up having a lot of meaning to both of them. Their friendship develops into a hot fling, which turns into much more when they almost lose each other.
This is a engrossing read, and the author balances the plot and sexy times with ease. Overall, this is a well-written friends to lovers romance with a captivating couple and a neighbor who is full of surprises.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
July 7, 2019
He is the youngest of the Wyatt brothers and I have been waiting for Todd's story. He doesn't believe in happy ever afters not after been burned in the romance stakes once before. Kate owns the local bakery and she is almost like a surrogate little sister to the Wyatt boys but she has harboured a crush on Todd for years She just can't get him to notice her and also an experienced man like him wouldn't be interested in a virgin like her. Even when she drunkenly kissed him he still didn't take her seriously or did he. Todd hasn't been able to forget that kiss from Kate ever since it happened and when she offers him a one night stand he is all for it only problem she stole his heart at the same time. With lots of misunderstanding clouding the way will they get a HEA You will have to read to see.
July 6, 2019
Kate has long had a crush on firefighter Todd Wyatt, one of the handsome Wyatt brothers. He has only ever viewed her as a friend until he senses that there is another man who is showing an interest in Kate. When her bake shop is vandalized, Todd’s feelings begin to change. He knows he is not capable of a long-term commitment, but still can’t stop thinking about her. When Kate decides to force the issue, Todd finds out that Kate can be very persuasive. When threats against her continue, Todd knows that he must step up, admit his feelings and protect her. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
July 9, 2019
A quick sexy read that I so enjoyed. Kate, known as the sweet girl has always had a crush on Todd Wyatt, a hot firefighter. She has decided he would be the perfect person to be her first, so begins the seduction. Todd is known for his one night and leave them but he soon realizes that one night is not enough with Kate.
A fast paced story that can be read in one sitting. Great character development. A hint of mystery when Kate's bakery is vandalized. Loved the epilogue of tying the series up. I thing Todd is my my favorite brother, I have such a soft spot for firefighters!
A fast paced story that can be read in one sitting. Great character development. A hint of mystery when Kate's bakery is vandalized. Loved the epilogue of tying the series up. I thing Todd is my my favorite brother, I have such a soft spot for firefighters!
June 29, 2019
Rating: ★★✬☆☆ (3/5 Stars)
Title: Flash Point
Author(s): Shelli Stevens
Character(s):
― Caitleen "Kate": 25 years old, Blonde
― Todd Wyatt: ―
Setting: Wyattsville, Indiana
Tag(s): Romance, Contemporary, Erotica
Content Rating: R
POV: Third Person
Smexy Level: Hot
Favorite Quote(s): N/A
Overall Opinion:
"Flash Point" was definitely a lot more my style than the previous installment of the series. The oozing chemistry between Kate and Todd was off the charts and the erotica was way muy caliente! An overall enjoyable and much need short, sexy read.
July 3, 2019
If you’re looking for a short, sweet, sexy read, here it is. Flash Point was well written with interesting characters. I would have preferred more though as it just seemed to skim the surface of the relationship and its evolution. More angst, more introspection, more interactions. But I enjoyed it enough to want to read the first 2 books of this series!
I received a free copy from Netgalley. This is my honest, unbiased review.
I received a free copy from Netgalley. This is my honest, unbiased review.
July 11, 2019
Kate rushed into the front of her shop. She unlocked the door and glanced around the shop. She looked at the lights surrounding the bakery display window. Baking was in her blood. 5AM she wasn’t crazy about the hours but it was part of a baker's life. Sometimes she stayed up way too late preparing for the morning baked goods. When she opened the shop- Kates Cakes- just over a year ago she’d been a little worried whether the business would sink or swim. She made everything from scratch so her food was a little more on the pricey side. During the tourist season business boomed and the locals seemed to love her. It seemed the fresh high-quality ingredients became her selling point. A couple hours later her cupcakes and pastries filled the display case. Than a sharp knock landed on the door and she didn’t officially open for another hour and a half. Than she recognized it was Todd Wyatt. He was a hot fireman. The tension eased from her body. She let Todd in. She gave him one of his favorite chocolate cupcakes. She was such a sucker. Todd was the youngest and the only single Wyatt brother left. She should have been repelled by his womanizing reputation but instead she was kind of fascinated with it. But she knew better than ot get involved with him. He was the one man in town who wouldn’t settle down. Todd said “ have dinner with me tonight.” Todd had never asked her out alone before, they had hung out with friends and his family more often than not. He added it was the least he could do for his cupcake dealer. She said sure. She wasn’t his types, and they’d been friends for way to long. With his brothers all married he hadn't seen Kate as much and he missed her. At ellie’s bachelorette party Kate had hired a stripper and todd had been lecturing her and she leaned over and gave him a drunken kiss to shut him up Even though it happened five months ago in his mind it was like yesterday. He almost kissed her oddly chaste kiss back but than he remembered who she was. He had paid her tab and drove her home. Half the girls in town crushed on him because he was a fireman. He thought at times Kate did too. Than Walt went and asked Kate out to dinner, which wasn’t a surprise. Kate had been having dinner with Walt at least once a week lately. But she only had platonic feelings for Walt. At dinner Todd asked her to teach him to bake something simple to impress a girl. Than todd saw the hurt on her face and apologized. But she was quiet through the rest of their dinner and the ride to her place. Than todd told her the truth there was no girl and when she asked why he said it he answered to avoid this and passionately kissed her. She didn’t want Todd to stop but than he did and again apologized and kate went in her home and shut the door in her face. Todd than met up with his brother Tyson for a drink and he warmed Todd off of Kate. Sunday Kate went to Ellie’s yoga class and talked to her after everyone left. She told Ellie she wanted to lose her virginity and tidd was her choice she trusted him and figured he knew what he was doing sexually and she’d have one night of passion. Ellie was married to Todd’s older brother Tyson and she said she’d help Kate if she was sure but Tyson must never find out. Ryan Wyatt was having a costume New Years Eve party Saturday and they made Todd think Kate wasn’t going instead she was suppose to be going out with Walt. Ellie helped her order a Red Riding Hood costume. Kate was nervous to wear in front of most of the town. It bugged Todd Kate wasn’t going but then he seen this woman in A Red Riding Hood costume and felt himself harden and knew he was ok. He wore a Tarzan loincloth cloth over his briefs and that was all. Once he realized it was Kate in the costume he pulled her outside. He warned kate off but she wasn’t listening. Todd took Kate to his house and they had sex. The next morning after they had made love again and Kate woke back up she reminded Todd he wasn’t one for a relationship and played it off that she had fulfilled a fantasy of sleeping with a fireman. The next day when Kate opened her shop she thought she had a gas leak and called the fire department Todd and Jeriamiah looked in the vent and found a dead animal that had been purposely put there. Someone was targeting Kate- a stone through her window, flat tires now this his brother Tyson was there for the police department and they decided they had to tell Kate. todd was already jealous of Walt and when he walked out to get Kate, Walt kissed her before she walked back to Todd. Todd wondered what was wrong with him, having Kate for a night with no strings attached was his fantasy. Something else was going on. He decided to go talk to ellie and she let it out Kate had been a virgin . Todd immediately went looking for Kate and she was dining with Walt, he told Kate to come on or he would talk to her in front of everyone. Kate left with Todd.
I loved this book. I read it in one setting as I didn't want to put it down. I loved how Todd’s family all cared about Kate and were protective of her even against one of their own. I loved the bit of drama and suspense in this book also. I loved Todd and Kate together and how they interacted. I loved the pace and the plot. I love dhow close Todd’s family was. If I had any complaints it would have been i would have liked some more background on both Kate and Todd.I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this book and I highly recommend it.
I loved this book. I read it in one setting as I didn't want to put it down. I loved how Todd’s family all cared about Kate and were protective of her even against one of their own. I loved the bit of drama and suspense in this book also. I loved Todd and Kate together and how they interacted. I loved the pace and the plot. I love dhow close Todd’s family was. If I had any complaints it would have been i would have liked some more background on both Kate and Todd.I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this book and I highly recommend it.
July 11, 2019
Kate has always been in the friend zone when it came to the Wyatt brothers but after years of crushing on him, she has decided to take some action. Can she really seduce the sexy fireman? Soon sparks are flying between the two but Kate has gained an enemy, will the discover who it is? Fast-paced read with plenty of drama and suspense. I really liked the characters and their chemistry is steamy.
July 1, 2019
I quite enjoyed this read, Kate and Todd were both very believable characters and the chemistry between them was sweet with some nice hot scenes to enjoy. It was a quick read and I will seek out other stories by the same author.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this story in exchange for a honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this story in exchange for a honest review.
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