No Man's Ghost

by Jason Powell

It's a FDNY firefighter’s first—and possibly last—week on the job. Charles Davids is a probationary firefighter working his first week out of the academy. For Charles, quietly battling his lack of confidence is a daily challenge as his new officers coach him on life as a New York City firefighter. The men love to tease and prank the new guy, but when it comes to drilling and training, they’re clear that the job is no joke. As is said in the fire "let no man’s ghost return to say my training let me down." Unfortunately for Charles, his first week is the same week that Alan Johnson, an unstable and soon-to-be-ex husband, gets kicked out and comes up with the idea to report fake fires at his wife's apartment every night. Alan laughs at the thought of her being awakened nightly by sirens and horns—if he can’t sleep in their apartment, why the hell should she? But after days of crying wolf, Alan decides that fake fires aren’t enough… Set on the hot summer streets of NYC and building to a fiery conclusion, No Man’s Ghost is a vibrant and thrilling look at the people who keep a city safe—and the ones who want to watch it burn.

Genres: Mystery

297 pages, Hardcover

First published April 18, 2023

Reviews

[Nikki Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to tell you guys that I initially reached out to Jason last September. His book initially captivated me with the synopsis and cover alone 🔥🔥🔥🔥. I am a big fan of our real life heroes! This guy is so kind and you can tell he genuinely loves his job, being a firefighter in NY.

Charles Davis just got out of the academy and is assigned in Harlem, New York. Someone else is causing havoc and seeking revenge.

That’s all I’m going to say and it’s all you need to know. This story feels completely real and extremely well written. I always love and appreciate well developed characters. These stories felt real. We get a first look at what goes on in the firehouse and within their personal lives.

The storyline is gold and I absolutely loved it. @uh_thousand_words thank you for inviting us into your world of the real life heroes. Bravo 👏

4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to Datura Books and Jason Powell for the gifted copy

[brewdy_reader · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5⭐️ rounded up

“𝙇𝙚𝙩 𝙣𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙣’𝙨 𝙜𝙝𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙖𝙮 𝙢𝙮 𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙡𝙚𝙩 𝙢𝙚 𝙙𝙤𝙬𝙣.” — 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙚𝙛𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙙𝙤

𝚝𝚑𝚛𝚒𝚕𝚕𝚎𝚛 • 𝚌𝚛𝚒𝚖𝚎 𝚏𝚒𝚌𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗

☄️ I’m trying to read more indie this year and this arsonist crime fic caught my attention!

I expected a thriller, but we end up getting the arsonist’s POV from the jump, so there’s no whodunnit style mystery.

Given the straightforward plot line, I wanted some more character development in what ends up being a “good vs evil” storyline.

It’s giving firefighter brotherhood, from the training to the camaraderie + found family amongst this group of heroes. Also some bro-humor and pranks. 😆

🔥 In the final chapters, the suspense ramps up and I was invested in the final showdown. If you’re looking for a feel-good heroes story, check this one out.

🧯No Man’s Ghost releases this Tuesday, May 27! 🚒

[Brianna Labuskes · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this emotionally gripping tale, Jason Powell offers an incredibly rich, engaging and authentic glimpse into the lives of the real-life heroes who protect New York City from fires. Crisp, gorgeous prose and sweat-inducing action scenes take readers into the heart of danger, even as they fall in love with Powell’s compelling found-family of firefighters. Charles Davids shines bright as a man trying to find his feet and his confidence, and rooting for him to succeed is especially satisfying. This should be at the top of everyone’s must-read list.

[Wesley Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Booksparks for sending me a copy of No Man’s Ghost as a part of their summer ambassador program! Here are my thoughts.

Charles just finished his fire fighting training and is a probationary officer, or “probie” with a group in NYC. He is learning firsthand the truths of being a firefighter. Meanwhile Alan’s wife Candace just learned about his cheating ways and has kicked him out. Alan begins to torment Candace by placing prank fire calls to interrupt her sleep, but soon this isn’t enough, and Alan begins to take scary chances with his means to scare his ex. Charles and Alan’s paths will cross, but at what cost?

When I was a little kid, I wanted to be a firefighter. It’s such an important and brave career choice. The way this novel is written shows so much passion for both firefighting and writing and it created a book that was enthralling. I learned so much about firefighting, and I’m assuming it’s pretty accurate seeing as the author is a firefighter. The way he wrote about all aspects of this brigade had so much care and time and I really appreciated that.

I loved the characters. They all felt real and were intricate. They were flawed but I couldn’t help wanting the firefighters to have the best ending. I loved Libby and her passion for baking and how truly unique she was from the get-go. Alan and Candace’s storylines also added more heart and life to this already brimming book. The way the storylines are interwoven added to my unstoppable page turning.

I didn’t know what to expect with this, but I am so happy I read it. I think I read 80% of it in one day, which is unusual for me, but it was just so easy to keep turning the pages to discover what happens next. Can’t recommend it enough and it’s hard to believe that it’s a debut! Check this one out if you like real-life stories mixed in with a lot of suspense and tension.

[Ryan Rodriquez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jason Powell is on fire with his debut novel!

His thread of narrative weaves a well-connected story through developed characters and a page-turning series of events. Follow the first days of probationary NYC firefighter Charles as he navigates his own uncertainty while trying to live his dream, putting others first. Take a peek into the selfish mind of a man who continually puts himself before others and see where these worlds explosively collide.

Powell takes careful time in developing his characters without rushing. However, you’ll find yourself turning pages so fast they feel hot to the touch.

Read this book and celebrate Jason for his contribution and showcasing of what true firehouse brotherhood should look like.

[Kris the retired librarian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Booksparks and Jason Powell for the gifted book for the Summer Reading Challenge!

Charles is a probie (probationary) firefighter just starting his career. He’s learning the ropes at the firehouse, trying to make a good impression on his coworkers, learning the routine, and training hard. As Charles settles in to his new job, Alan’s life and marriage are falling apart. His destructive decision could have deadly consequences for Charles and his fellow firefighters.

This is well done debut novel. Powell, is an NYFD firefighter. He’s clearly called upon his work experience and expertise for this story. I liked the behind the scenes look at how a fire station runs, all the training, the teasing and pranking the probie, and the kinds of call outs the firefighters get. The plot alternates between Charles and Alan and his wife. The pace of the story is steady. Charles steadily gains confidence in himself and his job as his first week at work progresses. His fellow firefighters provide a needed support system to ensure Charles’ success and the safety of all. Meanwhile, Alan’s life unravels after his wife kicks him out after cheating on her. He’s got a problem with alcohol, very few friends, and no place to go. The pace of the book varies, no doubt much like the pace of a fire station. Quiet time and then the action and tension jumps up. This was an entertaining read and I definitely recommend it.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Let no man’s ghost return to say my training let me down.”

No Man’s Ghost follows Charles, a probationary firefighter working his first week out of the academy. Charles finds himself facing his first biggest challenge when a scorned ex-husband hell-bent on disrupting his wife’s life begins a twisted game of revenge. But the games soon escalate, transforming petty harassment into a deadly threat. With simmering rage fuelling the fire of the man wanting to watch the city burn, Charles has to step up, or face the ultimate consequence.

No Man’s Ghost is Jason Powell’s first novel, and I absolutely devoured it start to finish. I had to post my review for this one immediately, because this is a book I will be raving about for the foreseeable future, and one I can’t wait to see published because I know so many of you will love and enjoy it as I have.

Jason Powell is a NYC firefighter himself, and his experience, knowledge and passion really shows on every page and brings this book to life. With vivid prose and this authentic perspective, No Man’s Ghost is a masterclass in having a narrative that is both thrilling and deeply human. I really enjoyed how the plot captured both the immediacy of fighting fires, and the introspective moments between the calls. The suspense builds gradually and relentlessly - much like a fire itself - leading to a powerful and satisfying conclusion that doesn’t rely on twists or dramatic reveals to leave a lasting impact.

The emotional heart of No Man’s Ghost though really lies in its characters. Charles’s journey is deeply compelling - every step of his growth feels real and deserved, and I found myself genuinely rooting for him throughout. The portrayal of firehouse life, from its daily rituals to the physical and emotional demands of the job, offers a real insight into both the culture and the inner lives of the firefighters. Despite the number of them, each character is distinct and I felt like I truly got to know them all, with their complexities and relationships adding real depth to the narrative.

This is a complex, thrilling, and heartfelt book that deserves nothing less than five stars.

Thank you so much to Jason Powell and the Datura team for this advanced copy of No Man’s Ghost to read and review. My opinions are my own.

[Jon Stanton · Rating 3 out of 5]

This would be a 5-star book if it wasn’t full of major grammatical errors, typos, and a completely botched layout. The publisher should be ashamed and embarrassed!! Clearly, no one did a copy edit before this went to print, and the layout errors are inexcusable.

I was so distracted by the mess that I couldn’t truly enjoy the book. The story is a good one. The characters are well-developed. The suspense is gripping. It’s just a damn shame that the book itself is a grammatical and layout tragedy.

[Teresa Brock · Rating 4 out of 5]

No Man’s Ghost
Jason Powell
05/06/2025
Datura Books

While standing in a line for who even knows what at Bouchercon in Nashville last year, I got to meet Jason Powell. Listen, this guy is sweet and humble and when he handed me his card, I have been watching closely to see what he would do. Interestingly enough, I have a son in law who is a firefighter near Lexington Kentucky so you know I was going to read this as soon as I could.

Charles Davids, a probationary firefighter, has recently finished his time at the academy and has been assigned to his station. Charles is timid, a rule follower, he is shy and not sure of himself. We get little bits and pieces of his personality as the story progresses and how important the family inside of the FDNY station is to him. Next, we have Alan Johnson. An unstable, drunk husband on the verge of divorce. His wife throws him out of the house and he hatches a plan to torment her. Every night, he calls in false reports of fires at her apartment, taking twisted delight in imagining her being roused by the blaring sirens and horns. If he can’t find peace in their home, why should she? Eventually these two will cross paths and what will the outcome be?
It is clear from the writing that the author loves his job and the people and the nuances that go along with it. Jason Powell provides a compelling, immersive, and genuine look into the lives of the everyday heroes who safeguard New York City from the dangers of fire and more and what their families are going through to support them. No Man's Ghost doesn’t just explore the physical world; it dives deep into the mind of its characters, exposing their vulnerabilities and the ghosts—both literal and metaphorical—that haunt them. Powell’s use of imagery and symbolism is exceptional, making the reader feel immersed in both the story and the emotional landscape of the characters.
Powell has crafted a story that is not only suspenseful but also deeply human.

[Helen Haythornthwaite · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a good read this was, and such a fantastic debut novel!

I wouldn’t normally choose to read a book about firefighters but this was so interesting, and as it’s written by an NYC firefighter, you know you’re getting a great picture of what life really is like for them.

The story is told from two POVs - that of Charlie, who has just started his first job as a firefighter, and also Alan, who has an axe to grind as his wife has just thrown him out of their flat.

It is a slow burner to begin with. The first half of the story is devoted to the members of the fire crew and Charlie’s induction into their team. I did enjoy getting to know them and some of their families, and the traditions and rules within the firehouse as Charlie learns what is expected of him as a newbie.

In the first half, we are also introduced to Alan and his wife, Candice. When Alan is thrown out of their flat, he becomes increasingly angry and begins calling in false fire alarms. The more his friends and wife turn against him, the angrier he becomes…

The second half goes up several notches and it’s here that I felt the anxiety and worry that accompanies families when their loved ones go to fight a fire. The author’s writing here is incredible and you almost feel like you’re there, fighting the fire with them. I loved the team spirit - everyone knows their job and will go to any lengths to protect one of their team.

The camaraderie and support that the firefighters share is exceptional and that really shines through in this book. I loved learning how the fires are fought, and how the firefighters communicate during call-outs and during drills. It’s a rare insight into this world which I thoroughly enjoyed!



(I was gifted a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.)

[Brittany Barry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Datura Books and Jason Powell for a #gifted copy of No Man’s Ghost.

What happens when you take an alcoholic who’s just been kicked out of his house and a probationary firefighter in his first week on the job? You get two characters barreling toward a fiery, unforgettable collision. 🔥👀

🧯 What did you love the most?
From the first chapter, I could tell Powell had real firefighting experience (turns out he’s an actual firefighter!). 😅🔥 It felt like I was reading a behind-the-scenes documentary, seeing what it’s really like to become a rookie firefighter. It added so much authenticity and depth. 🖤

I also loved how Powell wove Alan and Charlie’s stories together. 🤌 Alan is a bitter alcoholic out for revenge, while Charlie is a rookie just trying to stay alive. Their paths cross in these unexpected, intense ways that kept me hooked. 🙌

🧯 What to expect:
🚒 Firefighter brotherhood and training
💥 Domestic drama and addiction
👥 Multiple POVs
🖤 Short, punchy chapters

🧯 How was the pace?
It’s a slow-burn mystery that builds carefully. 🔥 While there are definitely some tense scenes (especially that explosive ending!), this isn’t a nonstop action thriller; it’s more about the characters and the tension slowly simmering to a big payoff. 🤩

🧯 Do you recommend this book?
Absolutely! Powell’s debut stands out because of his real-world experience; it shines through in every scene. 📚😍 If you’re looking for a gritty, authentic mystery with a unique firefighting backdrop, this is a solid pick. 🚒

🧯 Perfect for fans of:
📚 Tana French
📚 Dennis Lehane
📚 S.A. Cosby

🧯 Mood:
🚨 Tense | 🔥 Gritty | 👨‍🚒 Unflinching

🧯 Read if you like:
📖 Slow-burn mysteries with atmospheric settings
🪵 Gritty, real-world thrillers
🚒 Firefighter fiction that feels authentic and raw

[Judefire33 · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Review –

As always, hugest of thanks must go to Datura Books for sending me a copy of No Mans Ghost to read and review.

When I saw the blurb for No Man’s Ghost by Jason Powell, I just knew I would love this book. I’m a huge fan of American TV shows such as 911, What’s Your Emergency, 911 Lonestar & Chicago Fire – So knowing Jason is a servicing NY Firefighter, I had high hopes that this novel would be well written and gripping. I was not expecting it to be as explosive as it was!

We follow the main character of Charles Davids, who is a rookie Firefighter, straight out of the academy and assigned to Engine 99 in Harlem, New York. The attention to detail that has gone into writing No Man’s Ghost is frankly astonishing. If you want to learn all about how the firehouses work, then you will find that out by reading this novel. Obviously, Jason Powell is a serving Firefighter, so one would expect this, BUT to make it readable for the non-serving reader is really well down; there is no bogging down here of too much information, everything sits so well within the story.

I’m not going to give anything away, but I will say this is a great storyline, of how someone who is requited in love, can through their own actions cause pain and grief to those around them through their own selfish actions.

The cast of characters is SO well written, making this a really easy and speedy read, I really felt like I was part of the NYFD family, there’s surprises, there’s tension, there’s drama, its all here and mostly there’s what its like to be a Rookie on the job, and how every call no matter how trivial is used as a learning experience.

I absolutely LOVED this book, I’m really hoping that Jason will be writing another book and that this will be a series, it’s an exhilarating and authentic read that puts the reader at the heart of the American Firefighters and their family.

I can’t shout enough about No Man’s Ghost, a spectacular read and a well-deserved 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars. Bravo, Jason Powell, a magnificent debut novel.🔥

[Ash · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fantastic read! The story primarily follows Charles a "probie" firefighter working his first week out of the academy and Alan, an unstable civilian and soon-to-be-ex-husband who wants to get revenge on his wife by reporting fake fires.

The story was was both engaging, action packed, endearing and informative. The character's were all well developed, I felt a connection to them and cared what happened to them.

One of my favourite things about this story is that the author is a FDNY firefighter. It was such a treat getting a behind the scenes look into what it is really like as a FDNY fireman. I'm from Australia, our firies here are absolute legends, mateship and camaraderie is really important here as well as a bit of cheekiness. It was wonderful reading that it seems to be a very similar sentiment within the FDNY firefighters. The way the character's were so fiercely loyal and protective of each other whilst also still having a good sense of humour and pulling pranks on each other. There was so much love and respect between the department.
The author did a wonderful job representing these people as the heroes they are but also made them real people with everyday problems.

I would love for this to turn into a series. I think the author has laid some great groundwork, I want to read more about this fire crew. That being said if this remains a standalone it is still fantastic and we do get a satisfying ending.

[Lynn Zoia · Rating 4 out of 5]

3 1/2 stars, rounded up.
Really liked the basic story, as it follows a Harlem firehouse and its occupants over the course of a few days. The actual writing isn't that great though, which is why I couldn't go the full 4 stars. Some of the dialogue is very stilted, and a couple of the characters are more charicature than real-feeling. But overall, a pretty good read, and one that gives much insight into the job of a firefighter.

••RANT AHEAD••
A big peeve of mine is bad editing, and this one has what is either horrible proofreading or bad editing. Since books aren't typeset anymore, I can't blame that aspect:
Sentences are partial on one line, with the rest of the sentence on the next line...for no reason. There will be half the page empty and one (or few) word(s) on the next line, indented like it's a new paragraph.
The first one confused me, but I figured out where the rest of the sentence was. But there was at least one of those in every chapter, and it got really annoying by midbook.
Ok. I got that out of my system! Carry on and read it anyway!

[Anna J · Rating 4 out of 5]

WOW! This book makes you feel as if you are right in the fire station watching all the action go down. Charles Davids is a probationary fire firefighter and the more senior firefighters keep pulling tricks on him as he learns the ropes. You learn firefighter terms and feel the like you have a front row seat to all the action.

On one side you get the firefighters trying to keep everyone safe and on the other you get the upset person who calls in false fire alarms just to mess with people. Then when that isn't enough he escalates to starting a fire.

The author is a firefighter so he did an excellent job of describing everything in detail and feel like you have a front row seat watching it all unfold.

[Gregory Renz · Rating 5 out of 5]

NO MAN’S GHOST is a gripping thriller about a young man’s first days as a New York Firefighter and the challenges he faces in proving himself to his crew. The young man, Charles Davids, is a compelling character who is so well drawn the reader will be rooting for him from the start. The colorful cast of characters and fast-paced plot will keep the reader riveted to the page. The story is told through Charles’ point of view and through the point of view of a drug-addicted sociopath bent on revenge against his spouse who no longer wants anything to do with him. The author masterfully weaves the two storylines into a tension-filled thriller that culminates in a riveting climax. Well done, Mr. Powell.

[Denice Langley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A debut story by a firefighter by day, author by night. Jason Powell skillfully builds tension as a young firefighter, on his first week out of the academy, is part of the crew that must face an ex-husband determined to add as much misery to his family as possible. The character Charles Davids is an example of a firefighter who finds himself facing life-and-death choices while feeling overwhelmed and scared, yet finds the courage to save those who need help. The story takes the time to build the characters and their backstory, so the tension is wire-taut when Charles meets a man who would rather see his family burn than accept the truth of his actions. This is easily a 5-star read, setting a high bar for Powell's next book to meet.

[Raven R · Rating 4 out of 5]

No man's ghost is not a book that I think I normally would have been drawn to, but I'm very glad I read it. The sense of found family and camaraderie was really well done and I learned so much about firefighting. I did have a little trouble tracking all of the details in relation to firehouse things like jobs and lingo, but I found it all really interesting regardless. I liked that the story not only followed the firefighters, but also the lives and mysteries outside of the firehouse, including the people connected to and worried for them, and those responsible for the emergency situations. I chuckled a lot, choked up a bit, and found many of the characters to be very down-to-earth and relatable. I despised some other ones, but they were fitting for the story. In addition to teaching me a lot, this had action, suspense, a little hint of romance, and plenty of heart and emotion. What a great debut!

✨Thank you to booksparks and the author for the gifted copy!

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up. I enjoyed the pacing and the characters in this book! It was fun to see the different sides of all the characters and see how they change throughout the book. This book focuses a TON on the firefighter side of things, so there's a lot of language specific to that role that gets confusing. You can tell it was written by someone with experience as a firefighter because while they try to explain it as best they can, I don't think it's something that can be easily understood without experiencing it firsthand. Also, while the plots tied together at the end, they seemed a bit disjointed and the "villain" felt like they were added in in a rush at the last minute.

[Laura Connelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I did enjoy this book however for me, it didn’t live up to the hype (please don’t come for me 🫣) I do feel it gave me really good insight into what a life of a firefighter is like and I liked that we followed Charles Davids on his first few days as a probationer. Alan was a character who I actually really disliked and I found myself rolling my eyes at is ‘poor me’ act, which shows how well he was written. The rest of the characters were okay, I probably wouldn’t remember some of them if I’m honest. I felt the story dragged for the first 200 odd pages and I only really found myself enjoying it for the last 100 pages. I feel it was really well written but just not the book for me!

[Curtis Ippolito · Rating 5 out of 5]

No Man’s Ghost is a fascinating “ride-along” look at what it’s like to be a NYC firefighter. It obviously helps that the author is a firefighter himself, as the scenes are rich with detail.
Set during a steamy stretch of summer in Harlem, this story follows a probationary firefighter and a husband who’s wronged his wife for the last time and spirals into desperation. I enjoyed following the story as it unfolded, and the creative structure provided for a thrilling last half of the book. I’m looking forward to Powell’s next book. Recommend this one!

[LoveBooks2119 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall, this debut novel was intriguing and I loved the ending.
While there could have been less filler content, the author effectively tells a compelling story and the passion in his writing is evident.
I adored Charles and several of the other guys and would love to see a sequel.
Being married to a firefighter for 30 years, I was brought to tears several times. The description of camaraderie was spot on.
Thank you to the publisher/author for the opportunity to read this complimentary advanced copy. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[Heather Poet · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's Charles Davids' first week as a firefighter in
NYC - and it might be his last.
He's still learning the ropes, still trying to earn the respect of his crew, when the calls start coming in. Same address. Every night. No fire. Just smoke and shadows...
But someone's playing a dangerous game - and soon, the flames aren't just fake.
Smoldering with tension and racing toward a fiery climax, No Man's Ghost is a haunting story about trust, fear, and what it really means to be brave.
Read if you like thrillers with grit, heart, and
high stakes.

[Karen Jackson · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was highly disappointing. It has the elements for a great story but the author simply did not finish the book and tie up loose ends. What happened to Hannah Candace Josh the other firefighters. Did all of them survive? Mr Powell spent so much time establishing that the firehouse was a family yet he left the reader hanging as if we didn’t care. Two or three more chapters would do and less information on the technicalitiesof being a firefighter. I wanted more. A Real conclusion not a ground stop.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jason Powell is a New York City Fire Dept member, This dept. is also known as the F. D. N.Y. NO Man's Ghost is his first novel. He tells a believable story about a Rookie Firefighter's first days on the job, and the outcome of not taking responsibility for your choices or actions. in contrast to our rookie who is very responsible. well done Jason. worth a read though I would suggest not reading it to children owing to the use of swear words. happy reading.

[Audrey Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

About the people who keep a city safe – and the ones who want to watch it burn.

This nonstop debut had me binge-listening well past my bedtime. Told in two POVs, the characters are well-drawn: one is relatable and lovable, the other sickeningly diabolical. Love the behind-the-scenes glimpse into the inner workings of an NYC fire department and the escalating tension as the villain spirals out of control.

Jason Powell, keep 'em coming!

[Fran · Rating 4 out of 5]

The authors brought this book to life. As a first time author you were there. You felt the heat from the fires. You understood the deep connection firefighters have and the trust. The characters came to life and felt as if you personally knew them. Because of this I give it a 5.

However the editing was beyond horrendous, it was nonexistent. Editing, or lack there of was a 2

[Taryn · Rating 4 out of 5]

No Man’s Ghost is a debut novel that knows exactly what it’s doing. Written with striking precision and emotional depth, this story takes readers into the chaotic, exhausting, and often sacred world of firefighting in NYC and doesn’t flinch for a second.

Charles Davids, a newly minted probationary firefighter, isn’t your typical action hero. He’s observant, unsure, and real. Watching him struggle through his first week, awkward introductions, endless drills, and the heavy weight of potential failure, was one of my favorite parts of this novel. He’s not just learning how to do the job; he’s learning how to carry the responsibility that comes with it.

Opposite him is Alan Johnson, a man unraveling with every passing day. What starts as a petty act of revenge builds into something much darker, and Powell manages to make this descent both disturbing and heartbreakingly human.

What I appreciated most is that this isn’t a flashy thriller. It’s not built on cheap twists or fireball spectacle. Instead, Powell crafts a slow-burning, character-focused narrative that builds genuine tension and empathy. The quiet moments, coffee at the firehouse, an offhand joke, the silence between calls, are just as gripping as the action scenes.

There were times I wanted more momentum, particularly in the mid-section, but even during the quieter chapters, the emotional stakes stayed grounded and engaging.

This book respects the reader, the craft, and the community it represents. If you’re looking for an authentic, emotionally resonant read with grit, heart, and purpose, this one absolutely delivers

[Michelle Godard-Richer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed diving into the world of NYC rookie firefighter Charles Davids. You could tell the author had an intimate knowledge of the subject matter. Great characters, authentic details, and a compelling storyline made for an entertaining read. Fans of crime fiction and firefighters will enjoy this book.

[Annoymous · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a job firefighters have. The author demonstrates the intricate details, proving how much fire fighters sacrifice their lives on a daily basis. Truly heroes.
I'd love to see this as a movie!