A review by readwithria
Things You Save in a Fire by Katherine Center

emotional 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? It's complicated

4.0

Things You Save in a Fire is a beautiful story about forgiveness, family, and post traumatic growth. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and it’s an excellent book! However, I don’t know if I could call it a compelling romance novel. 

I really enjoyed this book! Cassie’s personal growth is incredible, and the relationships that she builds are so compelling. I loved reading about the firehouse and how she weaseled her way into the hearts of the brotherhood. I also really loved the epilogue, and seeing how she created a community for herself.

That being said, the romance was definitely the weakest part of the book for me. I don’t think we spent enough page time with Owen to make the depth of her feelings for him feel earned. We don’t even learn his first name until 50% of the way through the book. I completely believe all of the interactions they have, but there are so many that we don’t see and it made it hard for me to believe that they were deeply in love.

I think if I had gone into this book not expecting it to be a romance, I would have enjoyed it a bit more. It’s still a book that I would definitely recommend! 4 stars.
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