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4.21 AVERAGE
4.21 AVERAGE
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Story: 12/10
Spice: 5/5
Spicer Hierarchy: spicy/smut
ARC Review-Releases 7/17
Ford gives into the recommendation of his co-worker and joins a dating app as his divorce is finalized. He was not expecting to match with his co-worker’s best friend, Hollis. Ford is hesitant to begin anything Hollis since he is a self-proclaimed f*ck-boy. But the appeal of a secret friends with benefits is too much for Ford to resist.
This was a solid good time… the sneaking around aspect just amped everything up. I could feel myself blushing while reading and that almost never happens. I loved Fire Daddy so much-Lordy. While the passion and heat was there between Hollis and Ford from the start, I loved the slow building of their friendship into a relationship. Ford’s grumpy personality was the perfect pairing for Hollis. This was an addictive, funny, low-angst HOT HOT HOT story with a cowboy x firefighter with sneaking around.
emotional
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
“That doesn’t mean you made a mistake by leaving, or that you should’ve stayed in a marriage that brought you pain and misery. It just means that you cared. It’s okay to grieve something that no longer serves you…”
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25 / 5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
There’s something about Hollis and Ford that drew me in and refused to let me go. I found myself rooting for them so strongly by the end that it was almost surprising. Kind of like our leads, I didn’t expect to care for them as much as I did.
Ford is a beautiful character. Life hasn’t been kind in a lot of ways and he wears his stoic attitude like armor. But there’s a sweet softness to him, to this rugged fire captain who finds solace in nature and befriends a lonely elderly man. He’s so clearly seeking soul-deep connection without ever realizing it and my heart aches for him.
And Hollis? Bottle his sunshine and sell it for a penny because we could all use some of his confidence, sass, and self-assuredness. For all his playboy talk and insistence that he “doesn’t do relationships,” his thoughtfulness and insight are core to who he is and so utterly blatant to those around him.
And the spice? Dear goodness, the spice. James has a way with words when it comes to building delicious tension. Once the fire starts in this one it doesn’t wane, much less go out. It almost felt overwhelming to the plot, particularly when the timeline jumped a week or so ahead and we missed some of the growth happening outside the bedroom (even though you won’t find me complaining about the time spent inside it, lemme tell you).
The internal monologues are thick in this book, fair warning for those who prefer an action-forward writing style. We are all up in Hollis and Ford’s heads from the jump. The pace picks up in the second half, with more active scenes and fewer deep dives, but it’s a consistent theme.
Hollis is also a playboy who doesn’t take no for an answer…taking it nearly too far. This felt true to his character, though, and seemed almost necessary for things to move forward given Ford’s reluctance. Hollis is pushy, but I wouldn’t say he’s forceful.
Overall, I struggled to put this book down. It was my first by James and it absolutely won’t be my last. I’ve already downloaded the first book in the series and fully intend to make my way through the rest of the backlist.
Recommended for fans of small town contemporary MM romance and authors like Jonah Yorke, J.M. Frey, Nordika Night, Willow Dixon, and similar.
📚Fast facts📚
✨ Small town
✨ Firefighter x rancher
✨ Age gap
✨ Best friend’s boss
✨ Secret identity (dating app)
✨ Dating after divorce
✨ Secret relationship
✨ “I shouldn’t want you”
✨ Found family
✨ Very open door
✨ Contemporary MM
✨ Standalone (second in a series)
✨ First person, dual POV, present tense
I am so grateful to the author and The Author Agency to have received an advanced copy of this story! This is my honest and unbiased review.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Car accident
Moderate: Homophobia
Another amazing couple from Ashley James. I absolutely loved how silly Hollis was. Ford was perfection as the older firefighter and i just loved what these two did for each other. There was just such fun chemistry and ease with these two. I loved them so much!
So deliciously good!!!! I can’t wait to read more about the rest of the characters
These two brought the heat and the feelings.
After meeting Hollis in book one, I knew he was going to be messy and exciting. His crush on the fire chief was not a secret and his flirtings got him nowhere...that he knew of. It was so exciting seeing him react and confront Ford when the secret identity came to light. I loved how he didn't get mad or act shocked and hurt, he just did...other more productive things. I loved the connection that started because of that secret and the one that kept on growing, because let's be honest, it was never casual.
Ford, my guy, I loved you from page one. He was a little shy and a lot scared, totally understandable, seeing where he just got out of. I loved seeing that double side of him. The anonymity really made him open up, and I feel like thanks to that, the relationship was better, it had the foundation to start something already, because they both knew much more about the other. Ford opening up sexually was also a beauty to behold, hot and sweet.
I loved every aspect of this book and this series, and that little 'something' that was hinted at for the side characters can be so good! I'm looking at you, Daddy Moore, pls find the one...and he can be a young hot man whose name I won't say to not spoil anything.
Beyond thankful to Ashley and TAA for this e-arc!!
Quotes:
Living your truth and being proud about it shouldn't be something that's seen as admirable. It should be standard, you know?
The man I've been talking to-the mystery man with the nice cock—is Captain Ford Wesley. And the best part? I may be just now figuring out who he is, but he's known who I am. Ford's been knowingly flirting with me.
"What a dirty fuckin' man you are, baby,"
Knowing before long, Ford Wesley, the big, gruff fire captain at Station 14 and the mystery man I've been flirting with for over a month, will be putty in my hands.
"Do exactly what you said you wanted to do to me earlier. Fuck my throat. Take control. Lose control on me."
I want Hollis, even though I shouldn't.
Hollis makes me feel seen in a way I've felt invisible for so many years.
My body is thrumming, and it's so easy to lose myself in him. In this moment. I've barely gotten started, and I already know I'm not going to want to stop. His body fits against mine perfectly.
"And ya just don't know how to quit, do ya? Comin' over here unannounced, beggin' for me to fuck you. Is this what you needed, boy?"
The truth is, Hollis fascinates me.
My lips are on his before I can even take my next breath. I'm starving, but he is too,
I can't put my finger on what it is, exactly, about this that feels different, but it does, and I know he feels it too. It's in the way his dark, hooded gaze bleeds into mine, in the way he's holding on to me just as tight as I am, and it's also in the quiet. In the way neither of us has to say anything to know how we're feeling.
Never been a sleepover type of man, and typically, I like it that way, but it felt so natural asking him to stay last night.
Being with Hollis is easy.
Loving him feels right.
And even though I never saw myself here, there's no
other place I'd rather be.
These two brought the heat and the feelings.
After meeting Hollis in book one, I knew he was going to be messy and exciting. His crush on the fire chief was not a secret and his flirtings got him nowhere...that he knew of. It was so exciting seeing him react and confront Ford when the secret identity came to light. I loved how he didn't get mad or act shocked and hurt, he just did...other more productive things. I loved the connection that started because of that secret and the one that kept on growing, because let's be honest, it was never casual.
Ford, my guy, I loved you from page one. He was a little shy and a lot scared, totally understandable, seeing where he just got out of. I loved seeing that double side of him. The anonymity really made him open up, and I feel like thanks to that, the relationship was better, it had the foundation to start something already, because they both knew much more about the other. Ford opening up sexually was also a beauty to behold, hot and sweet.
I loved every aspect of this book and this series, and that little 'something' that was hinted at for the side characters can be so good! I'm looking at you, Daddy Moore, pls find the one...and he can be a young hot man whose name I won't say to not spoil anything.
Beyond thankful to Ashley and TAA for this e-arc!!
Quotes:
Living your truth and being proud about it shouldn't be something that's seen as admirable. It should be standard, you know?
The man I've been talking to-the mystery man with the nice cock—is Captain Ford Wesley. And the best part? I may be just now figuring out who he is, but he's known who I am. Ford's been knowingly flirting with me.
"What a dirty fuckin' man you are, baby,"
Knowing before long, Ford Wesley, the big, gruff fire captain at Station 14 and the mystery man I've been flirting with for over a month, will be putty in my hands.
"Do exactly what you said you wanted to do to me earlier. Fuck my throat. Take control. Lose control on me."
I want Hollis, even though I shouldn't.
Hollis makes me feel seen in a way I've felt invisible for so many years.
My body is thrumming, and it's so easy to lose myself in him. In this moment. I've barely gotten started, and I already know I'm not going to want to stop. His body fits against mine perfectly.
"And ya just don't know how to quit, do ya? Comin' over here unannounced, beggin' for me to fuck you. Is this what you needed, boy?"
The truth is, Hollis fascinates me.
My lips are on his before I can even take my next breath. I'm starving, but he is too,
I can't put my finger on what it is, exactly, about this that feels different, but it does, and I know he feels it too. It's in the way his dark, hooded gaze bleeds into mine, in the way he's holding on to me just as tight as I am, and it's also in the quiet. In the way neither of us has to say anything to know how we're feeling.
Never been a sleepover type of man, and typically, I like it that way, but it felt so natural asking him to stay last night.
Being with Hollis is easy.
Loving him feels right.
And even though I never saw myself here, there's no
other place I'd rather be.
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
I fell for Hollis when I read the first book Finn, and I loved him just as much during this book 😍. Thankfully he won over fire daddy Ford, because his heart is just too big and beautiful to not have a love of his life 💜.
Speaking of Ford, I LOVED him just as much, slightly stoic, but a big teddy bear under that grumpy exterior? Yes please and thank you 🔥. Fire daddy is exactly what he is for our guy Hollis, and the tension between the two is phenomenal! Hollis was definitely what the grumpy captain needed and when they finally come together... well it's a good thing he's a firefighter because sparks fly 😈💥.
I adored everything about their dynamic and relationship! How it came together so peacefully and how they both wrangled each other in without even knowing they were falling 🥹. There's beauty in simplicity and I feel this book entails that so well.
I truly cannot WAIT for Gentry's book, and Remis 😜 I've been anticipating it since we got to know both during the first book but this one enticed me soooo much more 😈. Plus what's not to love about cowboys falling in love? 🥵
Speaking of Ford, I LOVED him just as much, slightly stoic, but a big teddy bear under that grumpy exterior? Yes please and thank you 🔥. Fire daddy is exactly what he is for our guy Hollis, and the tension between the two is phenomenal! Hollis was definitely what the grumpy captain needed and when they finally come together... well it's a good thing he's a firefighter because sparks fly 😈💥.
I adored everything about their dynamic and relationship! How it came together so peacefully and how they both wrangled each other in without even knowing they were falling 🥹. There's beauty in simplicity and I feel this book entails that so well.
I truly cannot WAIT for Gentry's book, and Remis 😜 I've been anticipating it since we got to know both during the first book but this one enticed me soooo much more 😈. Plus what's not to love about cowboys falling in love? 🥵
emotional
funny
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
**4.5**
what another entertaining read from Ashley James. Great chemistry between the MC's whilst they go from something online to in-person, and try to keep it secret from those they know.
Hollis is a larger than life character, with confidence and charm to spare, as well as not being one for relationships. Ford is just about to be officially divorced and is currently living at the fire station where he is captain. Remi, his lieutenant, just happens to also be Hollis's best friend and had forbidden his friend from anything with his boss, knowing that he finds the older man very attractive.
I love how these two get together, especially as it's Ford who knows that it's Hollis he is talking to! Ford makes things a lot easier for Ford, even when he doesn't know who he's talking to, and then he dials it up, bringing the bossy vibes that Ford may like, just a tiny bit.
Along with some hot chemistry, there are a few scenes that are very heartfelt, with Hollis showing his caring nature and Ford connecting with an older gentleman experiencing loneliness and anxiety. Remi's friendship clearly means a lot to Hollis, and you can tell how close they are but Ford is a whole other level of need, surely Remi will understand?
I've really enjoyed this series so far and am so excited to see what's in store next, knowing who it's for! Hollis is another highly recommended read from Ashley.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
what another entertaining read from Ashley James. Great chemistry between the MC's whilst they go from something online to in-person, and try to keep it secret from those they know.
Hollis is a larger than life character, with confidence and charm to spare, as well as not being one for relationships. Ford is just about to be officially divorced and is currently living at the fire station where he is captain. Remi, his lieutenant, just happens to also be Hollis's best friend and had forbidden his friend from anything with his boss, knowing that he finds the older man very attractive.
I love how these two get together, especially as it's Ford who knows that it's Hollis he is talking to! Ford makes things a lot easier for Ford, even when he doesn't know who he's talking to, and then he dials it up, bringing the bossy vibes that Ford may like, just a tiny bit.
Along with some hot chemistry, there are a few scenes that are very heartfelt, with Hollis showing his caring nature and Ford connecting with an older gentleman experiencing loneliness and anxiety. Remi's friendship clearly means a lot to Hollis, and you can tell how close they are but Ford is a whole other level of need, surely Remi will understand?
I've really enjoyed this series so far and am so excited to see what's in store next, knowing who it's for! Hollis is another highly recommended read from Ashley.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Content Warnings
Minor: Panic attacks/disorders, Car accident
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
ARC Review: Thank you so much to Ashley James and The Author Agency for sending me a copy to read and review!
Hollis and Ford were so hot!! They were so perfect for each other. Hollis being the sunshine to Ford’s grumpy. The text conversations between the two characters on the dating app before Hollis figured out who he was talking to was great build up.
I love a good reformed playboy romance and this did not disappoint! I also love it when a character gets out a bad marriage and in their process of finding their feet, they find someone who sees them, listens to them, and gives them the love they were missing. This book had heat and heart. It was funny, light hearted, and heartwarming.
Hollis and Ford were so hot!! They were so perfect for each other. Hollis being the sunshine to Ford’s grumpy. The text conversations between the two characters on the dating app before Hollis figured out who he was talking to was great build up.
I love a good reformed playboy romance and this did not disappoint! I also love it when a character gets out a bad marriage and in their process of finding their feet, they find someone who sees them, listens to them, and gives them the love they were missing. This book had heat and heart. It was funny, light hearted, and heartwarming.
lighthearted
This was a very entertaining and hot read! I really enjoyed it.
We already met Hollis in book 1 of the series and I have been curious to learn more about him. And I really like him. He’s all golden retriever sunshine, but also really attentive and caring. I loved that.
The two MMCs had great chemistry and I enjoyed all the texting and flirting. I would have loved to read a little bit more about their emotional connection and what they did when they weren’t spicing 😂
I’m excited to read book three!
💙MM romance
💙Age gap
💙Online dating
💙Secret identity
💙Cowboy x firefighter
💙Grumpy sunshine
🌶️Lots of spice
medium-paced
This was a great read! The hidden identity aspect of this from the start really drew me in. I think I love hidden identity trope more than I realised 😄 Add in some closer proximity and that Hollis has figured it out and Ford hasn’t…it comes to some fun and delicious tension.
Ford is a bit gruff but adorable. He has been through a recent divorce and wasn’t always treated the best. He has some insecurities which play on his mind which gives him a layer of vulnerability though he’s the older, more rugged one in this pairing.
Hollis is a hoot. He’s charming, cocky, pretty funny, and brings a somewhat golden-retriever energy but at the same time it seems like he kind of “gets” people and he reads Ford so well. He’s so sweet and supportive at some points, it really melted me.
While there were definitely some good soft, tender moments, I think I could have just used a little more emotional connection from both of them to really bump this up in my rating. However, I still really enjoyed how the relationship grew between them and how they connected in a number of ways.
This book has plenty of open-door detailed scenes so be aware if you pick this one up. If sexting is a thing for you, this is featured quite a lot and you might like that! The length of the texts made me laugh a little sometimes but it wasn’t bothersome.
I read this pretty much all in one sitting, I couldn’t put it down! It’s a really engaging story and I can recommend for a good M/M, age gap, fireman/cowboy romance!
4/5 ⭐️
I received an advance copy of the book and have left my honest, influence-free review
Ford is a bit gruff but adorable. He has been through a recent divorce and wasn’t always treated the best. He has some insecurities which play on his mind which gives him a layer of vulnerability though he’s the older, more rugged one in this pairing.
Hollis is a hoot. He’s charming, cocky, pretty funny, and brings a somewhat golden-retriever energy but at the same time it seems like he kind of “gets” people and he reads Ford so well. He’s so sweet and supportive at some points, it really melted me.
While there were definitely some good soft, tender moments, I think I could have just used a little more emotional connection from both of them to really bump this up in my rating. However, I still really enjoyed how the relationship grew between them and how they connected in a number of ways.
This book has plenty of open-door detailed scenes so be aware if you pick this one up. If sexting is a thing for you, this is featured quite a lot and you might like that! The length of the texts made me laugh a little sometimes but it wasn’t bothersome.
I read this pretty much all in one sitting, I couldn’t put it down! It’s a really engaging story and I can recommend for a good M/M, age gap, fireman/cowboy romance!
4/5 ⭐️
I received an advance copy of the book and have left my honest, influence-free review
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
4.25/5 stars 3/5 spice
This was a fun read. Hollis really did brighten up everything, even an older, grumpy, currently going through a divorce, fire department captain.
I enjoyed how these two connected through a dating app where Ford knew who he was talking to and Hollis had no idea. They had insane chemistry from their sexting to in person intimacy.
Hollis being a no strings kind of guy, really put in the effort with Ford. He listened and made him feel wanted/needed. I loved the scene where he came over to comfort Ford after his divorce was finalised.
It was nice to see all the people in their lives so supportive of their relationship despite the 20 year age gap. I’m sad that the next book will the last in the series but I’m super excited for Gentry’s story.
- Age gap
- Small town
- Best friend’s boss
- Dating app
- Cowboy X fire department captain
- Grumpy X sunshine