I picked this up because it had been shelved under BBW a few places, but I didn't really see that theme in this book. It was ok. I figured out the entire mystery within minutes, so it wasn't particularly intriguing. Overall not bad but I only really like contemporary romance that hits on one of my favorite themes, so I probably won't read any other books from this series. Even if firemen are pretty hot. Oh, one more thing that bothered me - the message that you can get away with basically cheating if you almost die a couple times. So much potential angst there but it seemed glossed over. ( )

I picked this up because it had been shelved under BBW a few places, but I didn't really see that theme in this book. It was ok. I figured out the entire mystery within minutes, so it wasn't particularly intriguing. Overall not bad but I only really like contemporary romance that hits on one of my favorite themes, so I probably won't read any other books from this series. Even if firemen are pretty hot. Oh, one more thing that bothered me - the message that you can get away with basically cheating if you almost die a couple times. So much potential angst there but it seemed glossed over. ( )

Trial by Fire
3 Stars

The suspense plot has potential and is exciting in places although the villain is obvious very early on and the motive predictable.

Unfortunately, the romance, while sexy and steamy, is also the weak point. Howard (what is up with that name? He's a gorgeous alpha firefighter not a nerdy accountant who cheats on his taxes...) and Kat's scenes are mainly sex with a little conversation thrown in which is were things get angsty.

First, he spills his guts about his traumatic childhood (an element of the story that is actually intense, horrifying and well written) and then he clams up tighter than a drum. When things get tough, he considers cheating. This is a complete NO-NO for me although Kat's reaction is precious.

Speaking of Kat, she is a spunky heroine who, despite one or two TSTL moments, is engaging and never lets Howard walk all over her.

Some of the internal dialogue and expressions are irritating and ridiculous but the secondary characters are interesting enough to continue with the series. ( )

serial killer ( )

This is one of THE best books I've read in years. It seems rare anymore to find a book that you truly can't put down and that the characters stay with you long after you finish the book. In the past few months, I've been fortunate to stumble upon a few like that. This is the best of the best.

Plus, it is hot, hot, hot!!! I can't wait to read the next one in the series. ( )