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Boston Fire #2
Controlled Burn
Rick Gullotti lives the good life. He fights fires, dates beautiful women—though none long enough so they cast wistful glances at jewelry stores—and has great friends. And thanks to helping out the elderly couple who own his building, his rent is low. But when concerns about their health lead him to contact their only son, his life starts getting away from him.
Jessica Broussard has no interest in leaving sunny San Diego or her cushy corner office for Boston, but her father—who happens to be her boss—dispatches her to deal with the grandparents she's never met. She's unprepared for the frigid winter, loving relatives who aren't the monsters she's been led to believe, and the hot, scruffy firefighter who lives upstairs.
At first, Jessica is determined to get back to her comfortable life as quickly as possible. All she has to do is talk her grandparents into selling their monstrosity of a house and moving to a retirement community. But she underestimates Rick's dedication—and his considerable charm. Nobody's taking advantage of his friends on his watch, even if that makes the tempting southern California girl with the long legs his adversary. Unfortunately for them both, the only thing more urgent than the matter at hand is their sizzling chemistry, and it's quickly becoming too strong to resist.
Jessica Broussard has no interest in leaving sunny San Diego or her cushy corner office for Boston, but her father—who happens to be her boss—dispatches her to deal with the grandparents she's never met. She's unprepared for the frigid winter, loving relatives who aren't the monsters she's been led to believe, and the hot, scruffy firefighter who lives upstairs.
At first, Jessica is determined to get back to her comfortable life as quickly as possible. All she has to do is talk her grandparents into selling their monstrosity of a house and moving to a retirement community. But she underestimates Rick's dedication—and his considerable charm. Nobody's taking advantage of his friends on his watch, even if that makes the tempting southern California girl with the long legs his adversary. Unfortunately for them both, the only thing more urgent than the matter at hand is their sizzling chemistry, and it's quickly becoming too strong to resist.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2015
About the author
Shannon Stacey
129 books2,641 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Shannon Stacey lives with her husband and two sons in New England, where her favorite activities are writing romance and really random tweets when she’s not riding her ATV. She loves mud, books, football & watching way too much TV.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 271 reviews
May 25, 2017
4 Yummy Firefighter Stars
"It's still a bad idea," he said, his voice low. "I agree." She stepped into the curve of his arm. "So after you kiss me, we should make another agreement about how we won't do it again."-Rick and Jessica
Wow it is so nice to read a sweet, low drama, light-hearted read. Lately some of the books I have read, have been big misses for me, and they gave me a horrible case of the Rants! I really needed a fun, easy going book. And I got that with Controlled Burn by Shannon Stacey. This book worked for me on so many levels, but the main and most important one was, it had sexy firefighters in it. Enough said!
"I can throw you over my shoulder if you want. I've had professional training." She gave him a look that might have scorched that fancy fire coat he wore. "Do they give classes on being a caveman at the fire academy?" "That part just comes naturally to some of us. But they have to teach us how to lift with our legs and not with our backs, I guess."-Rick and Jessica
"The sooner you get them off, and get yours off the sooner you can be inside of me."-Jessica
What this book is about
Jessica works as VP of Broussards Financial Services, her father's business. While checking her father's messages, she finds out her grandfather, whom she has never met, fell and was in the hospital. Jessica knows her father cut his parents out of his life, and wants nothing to do with them, for reasons unknown to her. She decides to get on a plane and meet her grandparents and help them if she can. When she gets to her grandparents home she meets their tenant, who lives in their 3rd floor apt, Rick. Rick is very close to her grandparents. Neither Rick or Jessica trust the other's motives, and both are very attracted to each other. Jessica and Rick are both fighting their attraction. Nothing can come from it since they live miles and miles away. Right?
"Good." His hand fisted in her hair, tilting her head back so she looked into his eyes. "I want it to be hard for you to leave me because it's sure as hell hard to let you go."-Rick
"It's so dumb. I mean, if you were in a house that was on fire and you just happened to stumble on a room with no smoke in it, would you feel compelled to stop and have sex in it?" "No." He paused. "A blow job, maybe, but not sex." She elbowed him hard enough to make him grunt. "You would not." "Of course not. With the amount of gear we wear, by the time I could get my dick out, the flames would be knocked down and the guys would be in the truck, laying on the horn." -Jessica and Rick
I loved both Jessica and Rick. They were both kind, realistic, likable, and down to earth characters. I love that there is a nice build up to their relationship. They don't just hop into bed. There is some sexual tension, some flirting and a few stolen kisses. Both Rick and Jessica are playful, funny and sweet people. They made an adorable and sexy couple.
"Those are models, Jess. God knows that ain't me. I'm real and I have bad days and sometimes I say stupid things, but I love you."-Rick
"The only thing I absolutely need is you."-Jessica
Controlled Burn can be read as a stand alone book. I didn't read the first book, and I had no problems. One of the things I really loved about this book was I was able to just relax. It made me laugh, smile, and just feel good. I only have one complaint with this book and that is the end........ WTH is that. That is not an ending, and it's not really a cliffhanger. It's like a cliffhanger's lil brother or something. It was so rushed. It really gave no closure and left me with tons of questions. Maybe the next book will answer those questions. I don't know and won't find out til 2016. Not cool! I took a star off my rating, just for that ending!
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
"It's still a bad idea," he said, his voice low. "I agree." She stepped into the curve of his arm. "So after you kiss me, we should make another agreement about how we won't do it again."-Rick and Jessica
Wow it is so nice to read a sweet, low drama, light-hearted read. Lately some of the books I have read, have been big misses for me, and they gave me a horrible case of the Rants! I really needed a fun, easy going book. And I got that with Controlled Burn by Shannon Stacey. This book worked for me on so many levels, but the main and most important one was, it had sexy firefighters in it. Enough said!
"I can throw you over my shoulder if you want. I've had professional training." She gave him a look that might have scorched that fancy fire coat he wore. "Do they give classes on being a caveman at the fire academy?" "That part just comes naturally to some of us. But they have to teach us how to lift with our legs and not with our backs, I guess."-Rick and Jessica
"The sooner you get them off, and get yours off the sooner you can be inside of me."-Jessica
What this book is about
Jessica works as VP of Broussards Financial Services, her father's business. While checking her father's messages, she finds out her grandfather, whom she has never met, fell and was in the hospital. Jessica knows her father cut his parents out of his life, and wants nothing to do with them, for reasons unknown to her. She decides to get on a plane and meet her grandparents and help them if she can. When she gets to her grandparents home she meets their tenant, who lives in their 3rd floor apt, Rick. Rick is very close to her grandparents. Neither Rick or Jessica trust the other's motives, and both are very attracted to each other. Jessica and Rick are both fighting their attraction. Nothing can come from it since they live miles and miles away. Right?
"Good." His hand fisted in her hair, tilting her head back so she looked into his eyes. "I want it to be hard for you to leave me because it's sure as hell hard to let you go."-Rick
"It's so dumb. I mean, if you were in a house that was on fire and you just happened to stumble on a room with no smoke in it, would you feel compelled to stop and have sex in it?" "No." He paused. "A blow job, maybe, but not sex." She elbowed him hard enough to make him grunt. "You would not." "Of course not. With the amount of gear we wear, by the time I could get my dick out, the flames would be knocked down and the guys would be in the truck, laying on the horn." -Jessica and Rick
I loved both Jessica and Rick. They were both kind, realistic, likable, and down to earth characters. I love that there is a nice build up to their relationship. They don't just hop into bed. There is some sexual tension, some flirting and a few stolen kisses. Both Rick and Jessica are playful, funny and sweet people. They made an adorable and sexy couple.
"Those are models, Jess. God knows that ain't me. I'm real and I have bad days and sometimes I say stupid things, but I love you."-Rick
"The only thing I absolutely need is you."-Jessica
Controlled Burn can be read as a stand alone book. I didn't read the first book, and I had no problems. One of the things I really loved about this book was I was able to just relax. It made me laugh, smile, and just feel good. I only have one complaint with this book and that is the end........ WTH is that. That is not an ending, and it's not really a cliffhanger. It's like a cliffhanger's lil brother or something. It was so rushed. It really gave no closure and left me with tons of questions. Maybe the next book will answer those questions. I don't know and won't find out til 2016. Not cool! I took a star off my rating, just for that ending!
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
April 27, 2020
Sexy Yummy Firefighters!!
Controlled Burn is book two in the Boston Fire series by Shannon Stacey and narrated by Tatiana Sokolov.
I relished this audiobook. It’s a sweet light-hearted romance with almost no drama. This novel worked for me on so many levels. It’s easy and fun, but I really liked was the mature romance in that our leads are in their late 30’s early 40’s.
Jessica is a VP of Financial Services at her father’s company. She’s never meet her grandparents on her fathers side. For some reason her father cut them out of his life and hers. After receiving a call from her grandfathers doctor she decides to go meet them and help them out, but her plans and life soon change once she meets them and their tenant Rick.
Rick is our sexy firefighter and such a sweet man. He’s taken such good care of the Brussards that he’s pretty much family. The son they never had. He looks out for them and makes sure their property is taken care of.
I adored Rick and Jessica. They are likable, relatable, realistic, kind and down to earth. You can tell at the beginning that they don’t trust each others motives, but as time moves along they see that both want what’s best for the elderly couple.
As for the romance. It’s a nice sweet build up with lots of sexual tension, flirting, and stolen kisses. They both fight this attraction and they keep thinking how can this work when they live miles away.
The only complaint I have is the end. It just ends and left me with some question’s.
Narration: Tatiana Sokolov did a superb job in her narration. All the voices where distinctive and she brought out the romance and realistic life of our characters.
Controlled Burn was a feel good romance. I can’t wait to listen on in the Boston Fire series.
Rated: 4 Stars
Controlled Burn is book two in the Boston Fire series by Shannon Stacey and narrated by Tatiana Sokolov.
I relished this audiobook. It’s a sweet light-hearted romance with almost no drama. This novel worked for me on so many levels. It’s easy and fun, but I really liked was the mature romance in that our leads are in their late 30’s early 40’s.
Jessica is a VP of Financial Services at her father’s company. She’s never meet her grandparents on her fathers side. For some reason her father cut them out of his life and hers. After receiving a call from her grandfathers doctor she decides to go meet them and help them out, but her plans and life soon change once she meets them and their tenant Rick.
Rick is our sexy firefighter and such a sweet man. He’s taken such good care of the Brussards that he’s pretty much family. The son they never had. He looks out for them and makes sure their property is taken care of.
I adored Rick and Jessica. They are likable, relatable, realistic, kind and down to earth. You can tell at the beginning that they don’t trust each others motives, but as time moves along they see that both want what’s best for the elderly couple.
As for the romance. It’s a nice sweet build up with lots of sexual tension, flirting, and stolen kisses. They both fight this attraction and they keep thinking how can this work when they live miles away.
The only complaint I have is the end. It just ends and left me with some question’s.
Narration: Tatiana Sokolov did a superb job in her narration. All the voices where distinctive and she brought out the romance and realistic life of our characters.
Controlled Burn was a feel good romance. I can’t wait to listen on in the Boston Fire series.
Rated: 4 Stars
January 24, 2016
Jessica Brussard has never met her paternal grandparents (they don't even know she exists) because of her father's estrangement with his family. When she learns there might be a medical emergency involving her grandfather and her own father is "unavailable," Jessica uses the opportunity to go meet them and handle things. Rick Gullotti is a Boston firefighter who stays in the upstairs apartment of the Brussard's home and helps them maintain the property. When Jessica shows up, they're both wary of each other's motives.
This was such an interesting story with so many dynamics in play. Rick views the Brussards as family and is naturally predisposed to protect them. Jessica's not certain if he's just an interloper intent on taking advantage of her grandparents. And, she's struggling with the strong desire to bond with them versus her father's obvious duplicity in his characterization of his parents. Rick's also about ten years older than Jessica, looking to finally settle down but she lives in San Diego with a completely different lifestyle. To say their relationship comes with some thorns is an understatement.
I really enjoyed this story, especially the aspects of being a firefighter that were presented. I wasn't so much interested in learning about fighting a fire as much as knowing the complexities of their day-to-day existence; that was delivered on and more. There are many things about the lifestyle I'd never considered even though I'd suspected it was unconventional. This added a level of authenticity to the story, complicating an already gnarly relationship. I loved the maturity of the romance in the midst of some very troubling issues. And, there wasn't a neat bow tied at the end, leaving the door open for even more layers in future stories.
I'm very much liking this series!
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
This was such an interesting story with so many dynamics in play. Rick views the Brussards as family and is naturally predisposed to protect them. Jessica's not certain if he's just an interloper intent on taking advantage of her grandparents. And, she's struggling with the strong desire to bond with them versus her father's obvious duplicity in his characterization of his parents. Rick's also about ten years older than Jessica, looking to finally settle down but she lives in San Diego with a completely different lifestyle. To say their relationship comes with some thorns is an understatement.
I really enjoyed this story, especially the aspects of being a firefighter that were presented. I wasn't so much interested in learning about fighting a fire as much as knowing the complexities of their day-to-day existence; that was delivered on and more. There are many things about the lifestyle I'd never considered even though I'd suspected it was unconventional. This added a level of authenticity to the story, complicating an already gnarly relationship. I loved the maturity of the romance in the midst of some very troubling issues. And, there wasn't a neat bow tied at the end, leaving the door open for even more layers in future stories.
I'm very much liking this series!
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
July 24, 2016
Controlled Burn is the second installment in Shannon Stacey's adult contemporary/fireman romance series titled: Boston Fire. I didn't love the first book and was uncertain about continuing the series but the opportunity presented itself to read Controlled Burn so I thought what the hell. I ended up really liking it! I loved the theme of bonding with extended family (which is one of Ms. Stacey's specialties in my opinion) and I admired the tribute she paid to loved ones of firefighters and the anxious waiting game they go through every time that alarm rings. As far as the romance goes, the heroine and hero had great chemistry and their relationship drama was minimal which was a nice change. The stressful climax came right at the end of the story which was a bit odd and created a much too quick ending in my opinion, but overall I thought this was a great book. I'm glad to finally say I will be continuing this series for sure. If you enjoy adult romances featuring men in uniform then check it out!
My favorite quote:
"Families look a lot of different ways and there's no right or wrong or supposed to about any of them."
Note: The Boston Fire series includes the following installments as of May 2016:
#1-Heat Exchange
#2-Controlled Burn
#3-Fully Ignited
My favorite quote:
"Families look a lot of different ways and there's no right or wrong or supposed to about any of them."
Note: The Boston Fire series includes the following installments as of May 2016:
#1-Heat Exchange
#2-Controlled Burn
#3-Fully Ignited
January 24, 2016
2.5 It's not that I didn't like it... it was just kinda meh.
It was a nice, easy story. I skimmed a bit and, as usual, I thought it was a bit too long (longer than it should have been anyway). Frankly, if not for the ending, I would have given it 3 stars. But gah, the fact that I could guess (almost word for word actually) the last 10, 15 pages, made me rethink this book.
On the other hand, it was a pretty easy, fast read. I can't say I felt the almost 400 pages it has. It was the perfect junk food kind of book.
It was a nice, easy story. I skimmed a bit and, as usual, I thought it was a bit too long (longer than it should have been anyway). Frankly, if not for the ending, I would have given it 3 stars. But gah, the fact that I could guess (almost word for word actually) the last 10, 15 pages, made me rethink this book.
On the other hand, it was a pretty easy, fast read. I can't say I felt the almost 400 pages it has. It was the perfect junk food kind of book.
November 11, 2015
3.5 stars
I liked:
The H/H : I loved everything about them. Their characters , how they got together and how they handled their situation.
The grandparents: I always enjoy reading books featuring adoring grandparents. These two were 2 of the best.
The humor and cuteness: I think I was either laughing or smiling the whole time I read this.
I didn't like:
Rick's age: How old is Rick? 40? 50? They kept calling him old but his exact age wasn't mentioned. This is one of my pet peeves. To relate to a character I need to know how old he is.
THE ENDING: The book had great pace up until the last chapter and then suddnely ... BAM... it was over.I could see the kindle was saying I was @100% but I still tried to turn the page thinking there must be something wrong with the app, it can't be over! Nothing was resolved, it didn't even feel like HFN let alone HEA! I really wish there were 2 more chapters. I hope there would a big chunky chapter dedicated to Jess and Rick in the next book.
If it wasn't for the ending this would have been one of the best contemporary romances I've read in a while.
Lastly a warning: If you are on a diet this book is not good for you ;) They are either eating or talking about food the whole time!!!
I'll be reading more from the series, who can resist sexy firefighters?
I liked:
The H/H : I loved everything about them. Their characters , how they got together and how they handled their situation.
The grandparents: I always enjoy reading books featuring adoring grandparents. These two were 2 of the best.
The humor and cuteness: I think I was either laughing or smiling the whole time I read this.
I didn't like:
Rick's age: How old is Rick? 40? 50? They kept calling him old but his exact age wasn't mentioned. This is one of my pet peeves. To relate to a character I need to know how old he is.
THE ENDING: The book had great pace up until the last chapter and then suddnely ... BAM... it was over.I could see the kindle was saying I was @100% but I still tried to turn the page thinking there must be something wrong with the app, it can't be over! Nothing was resolved, it didn't even feel like HFN let alone HEA! I really wish there were 2 more chapters. I hope there would a big chunky chapter dedicated to Jess and Rick in the next book.
If it wasn't for the ending this would have been one of the best contemporary romances I've read in a while.
Lastly a warning: If you are on a diet this book is not good for you ;) They are either eating or talking about food the whole time!!!
I'll be reading more from the series, who can resist sexy firefighters?
December 15, 2015
ARC Review:
Heat Exchange, the latest book in the Boston Fire series, is a nice contemporary romance featuring a Boston fire fighter and a smart, savvy business woman from California.
Jessica Broussard did not know she had grandparents. Her father has been alienated from his parents for many years and has refused to speak of them. By accident, Jessica picks up a phone call and it changes her life. Rick Gullotti is a seasoned fire fighter and confirmed bachelor. Recently, he has been wondering why women keep telling him that he is not marriage material. Never having cared before, as a more mature man, he begins to question if he is content to be single for the rest of his life.
The best part of the story are the characters. I like the maturity of Jessica and Rick. Both are established and successful in their fields. Neither are overly needy. The attraction is immediate, but it's not insta-love. The relationship develops as the couple gets to know each other within the context of her helping out her aging grandparents. It's becoming increasing difficult for Jessica's grandparents to maintain and live in the family home. Jessica is present to help offer options. Rick is a tenant and part-time handy man and full-time friend to the aging couple. Rick and Jessica both have her grandparent's best interest at heart, although they may not agree to the solution. There is mature dialogue and serious conversations. In fact, I would've like to have had a little more witty banter between the two, but that's just a personal preference.
My biggest critique is that this story is suppose to be about firefighters. Although it takes place around firefighters, but there is not enough fire fighting. And because much of this story takes place away from the station, fire fighting becomes not even secondary, but tertiary to the the story. I want to glean more insight into that profession.
In A Nutshell:
I did not experience anything earthshaking or eye-opening, but there is kindness and sweet in the story and that makes it a nice addition to the Boston Fire series.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not paid for this review.
Originally posted at Love Affair with an e-Reader
Heat Exchange, the latest book in the Boston Fire series, is a nice contemporary romance featuring a Boston fire fighter and a smart, savvy business woman from California.
Jessica Broussard did not know she had grandparents. Her father has been alienated from his parents for many years and has refused to speak of them. By accident, Jessica picks up a phone call and it changes her life. Rick Gullotti is a seasoned fire fighter and confirmed bachelor. Recently, he has been wondering why women keep telling him that he is not marriage material. Never having cared before, as a more mature man, he begins to question if he is content to be single for the rest of his life.
The best part of the story are the characters. I like the maturity of Jessica and Rick. Both are established and successful in their fields. Neither are overly needy. The attraction is immediate, but it's not insta-love. The relationship develops as the couple gets to know each other within the context of her helping out her aging grandparents. It's becoming increasing difficult for Jessica's grandparents to maintain and live in the family home. Jessica is present to help offer options. Rick is a tenant and part-time handy man and full-time friend to the aging couple. Rick and Jessica both have her grandparent's best interest at heart, although they may not agree to the solution. There is mature dialogue and serious conversations. In fact, I would've like to have had a little more witty banter between the two, but that's just a personal preference.
My biggest critique is that this story is suppose to be about firefighters. Although it takes place around firefighters, but there is not enough fire fighting. And because much of this story takes place away from the station, fire fighting becomes not even secondary, but tertiary to the the story. I want to glean more insight into that profession.
In A Nutshell:
I did not experience anything earthshaking or eye-opening, but there is kindness and sweet in the story and that makes it a nice addition to the Boston Fire series.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not paid for this review.
Originally posted at Love Affair with an e-Reader
January 23, 2016
4 some like it firefighter hot stars. The novel is a finding family, finding your voice, and finding love story which translates into a feel good story. East Coast firefighter Rick and West Coast financial executive Jessica get a lesson in expecting the unexpected. The story is easy to like, easy to read, and even easier to finish.
Jessica Broussard grew up without a mother and tales of her father's parents not being the "right kind" of people. When Jessica receives the message that her paternal grandfather was in the hospital, she decides to handle the situation herself since her father was "unavailable." She doesn't expect the people she's been raised to believe are trash to be good, warm, and accepting people. She also doesn't expect the gorgeous firefighter that is their tenant. Jessica is actually really easy to like and sympathize with because she's relatively open-minded given who she was raised by. She attempts to bond with her grandparents rather than judging them and even attempts to not judge Rick.
Rick Gullotti has been the Broussard's tenant for years and has viewed them as something akin to family for years, as well. His life consists of working at the Boston Fire Department, enjoying many different women, and living his life. He doesn't expect his way of life to change drastically when Jessica Broussard shows up in her father's stead but that is exactly what happens. Rick is a genuinely good guy. He protects his own while being kind, smart, and always a little bit too much to handle. Safe to say I genuinely liked Rick.
Jessica and Rick find their lives changing between the possible sale of Jessica's grandparent's house, their relationship becoming what neither thought it would become, and the need to remain on the same coast. The two have their own challenges including the horrors that Rick's job can bring, Jessica trying to figure out if giving up her West Coast life is a wise decision, and the fighting that all couples go through. Overall, they love each other enough to figure out the big things and let the small things work themselves out in time.
Jessica Broussard grew up without a mother and tales of her father's parents not being the "right kind" of people. When Jessica receives the message that her paternal grandfather was in the hospital, she decides to handle the situation herself since her father was "unavailable." She doesn't expect the people she's been raised to believe are trash to be good, warm, and accepting people. She also doesn't expect the gorgeous firefighter that is their tenant. Jessica is actually really easy to like and sympathize with because she's relatively open-minded given who she was raised by. She attempts to bond with her grandparents rather than judging them and even attempts to not judge Rick.
Rick Gullotti has been the Broussard's tenant for years and has viewed them as something akin to family for years, as well. His life consists of working at the Boston Fire Department, enjoying many different women, and living his life. He doesn't expect his way of life to change drastically when Jessica Broussard shows up in her father's stead but that is exactly what happens. Rick is a genuinely good guy. He protects his own while being kind, smart, and always a little bit too much to handle. Safe to say I genuinely liked Rick.
Jessica and Rick find their lives changing between the possible sale of Jessica's grandparent's house, their relationship becoming what neither thought it would become, and the need to remain on the same coast. The two have their own challenges including the horrors that Rick's job can bring, Jessica trying to figure out if giving up her West Coast life is a wise decision, and the fighting that all couples go through. Overall, they love each other enough to figure out the big things and let the small things work themselves out in time.
December 14, 2015
Nice but what's with the ending, feels like things were left in the middle of nowhere.
Full review:
I'm a fan of Ms Stacey's Kowalski family series - sweet, sexy romances with great side characters and family/friends atmosphere.
I was excited to try her new series and while this book was nice, it didn't wowed me. I expected a lot more of the story and felt disappointed in the ending.
This is a tender, somewhat tame love story of Rick, a firefighter in his late thirties who is already starting to think of settling down and Jessica, a corporate woman, who dreams of belonging and having a family (not just husband and kids but rather, more than a distant father). They meet when she turns out to be the granddaughter of his landlords, a girl they didn't know existed.
It's a slow burn romance and the main conflict is based on the fear of both Rick and Jessica that the other having ulterior motives, trying to cheat Jessica's grandparents of their house.
The plot is not particularly complicated - there is some action, some drama, very law level angst but not real pull or chemistry for me. I didn't find the story very compelling and a lot of it required too much suspended belief for a contemporary romance novel.
On the other hand, I liked the mature characters and how they acted their age, they knew who they were and were comfortable with themselves. They went into the relationship with open eyes, there were not lies and misunderstandings, just working out of the issues between them.
The ending is my biggest niggle with this story. It's a HEA of sorts but it felt like things were left in the middle of nowhere. It's no secret I love a good epilogue, but even without one, I want to story to feel complete, even it the characters get just a HFN ending.
Full review:
I'm a fan of Ms Stacey's Kowalski family series - sweet, sexy romances with great side characters and family/friends atmosphere.
I was excited to try her new series and while this book was nice, it didn't wowed me. I expected a lot more of the story and felt disappointed in the ending.
This is a tender, somewhat tame love story of Rick, a firefighter in his late thirties who is already starting to think of settling down and Jessica, a corporate woman, who dreams of belonging and having a family (not just husband and kids but rather, more than a distant father). They meet when she turns out to be the granddaughter of his landlords, a girl they didn't know existed.
It's a slow burn romance and the main conflict is based on the fear of both Rick and Jessica that the other having ulterior motives, trying to cheat Jessica's grandparents of their house.
The plot is not particularly complicated - there is some action, some drama, very law level angst but not real pull or chemistry for me. I didn't find the story very compelling and a lot of it required too much suspended belief for a contemporary romance novel.
On the other hand, I liked the mature characters and how they acted their age, they knew who they were and were comfortable with themselves. They went into the relationship with open eyes, there were not lies and misunderstandings, just working out of the issues between them.
The ending is my biggest niggle with this story. It's a HEA of sorts but it felt like things were left in the middle of nowhere. It's no secret I love a good epilogue, but even without one, I want to story to feel complete, even it the characters get just a HFN ending.
March 14, 2016
I just love firemen, probably because of the uniform ;-), which is why I really wanted to like this book, but the beginning and end just didn't work for me.
I just didn't like Jessica in the beginning, she was too cold, too unfeeling to understand. But then by the middle of the book she changed for the better, and I liked how she was with her grandparents and with Rick, and I started to think and hope that things would continue to be great. Unfortunately she reverted back to her old self at the end, and it just ruined the book for me.
Rick on the other hand I really liked. He was sexy and sweet and loyal.
I really liked the first book, and I'm hoping the next book will be good as well.
February 18, 2016
This was a very sweet and well written story, the characters are nicely developed without any frustrating traits but...
1. The story is actually boring, nothing really happens that pulls you into their lives. We follow them page after page in the daily minutia of cell phones, cooking, eating, watching the news, etc. There is the long distance aspect of a relationship as she's from San Diego and he's from Boston, but it doesn't really create enough of an interesting story-line. It's a should we or shouldn't we start a relationship? That dilemma is approached in a mature way which I did appreciate - as contrived angst is irritating. Since they are mature and nice people, you like them; but hey I like a lot of nice people - it doesn't make their lives interesting.
2. The book doesn't focus any more on being a firefighter than being a finance manager. If you are in it for the firefighting allure; you'll be disappointed.
3. The ending seemed glossed over with unanswered questions.
1. The story is actually boring, nothing really happens that pulls you into their lives. We follow them page after page in the daily minutia of cell phones, cooking, eating, watching the news, etc. There is the long distance aspect of a relationship as she's from San Diego and he's from Boston, but it doesn't really create enough of an interesting story-line. It's a should we or shouldn't we start a relationship? That dilemma is approached in a mature way which I did appreciate - as contrived angst is irritating. Since they are mature and nice people, you like them; but hey I like a lot of nice people - it doesn't make their lives interesting.
2. The book doesn't focus any more on being a firefighter than being a finance manager. If you are in it for the firefighting allure; you'll be disappointed.
3. The ending seemed glossed over with unanswered questions.
November 26, 2015
This was one of the most feel good romances I've read lately. I know that Shannon Stacey has a knack for giving me the warm fuzzies, but this was one of her sweetest. Our hero, Rick, is really one of the good guys. Besides being well built and a sexy-as-hell firefighter, he's also just such a darn nice man!
He rents a room on the top floor of a sweet little old couple's house, and while he's there he does the hard chores, watches out for them, and basically fills in as a surrogate son. They are all mighty surprised when Jessica, a long lost grandaughter, show up their door.
Of course they're suspicious, but Jessica is just delightful. No over the top drama, despite an emotionally difficult childhood. No overblown angst. Just a genuine desire to know her family. Her joy at being welcomed to the community was a pleasure to experience through her eyes, and the longing to remain a part of it, heartwarming.
The chemistry with Rick is palpable, and the mature way they approach their relationship is beautiful. Even when the difficulties of a long distance relationship, and past family grudges, Rick and Jessica remain positive and work together. This is not a book of angst and miscommunication, but a sweet, humorous story of love, with a repeating cast of small town characters thrown delightfully into the mix. ~ George, 5 stars
He rents a room on the top floor of a sweet little old couple's house, and while he's there he does the hard chores, watches out for them, and basically fills in as a surrogate son. They are all mighty surprised when Jessica, a long lost grandaughter, show up their door.
Of course they're suspicious, but Jessica is just delightful. No over the top drama, despite an emotionally difficult childhood. No overblown angst. Just a genuine desire to know her family. Her joy at being welcomed to the community was a pleasure to experience through her eyes, and the longing to remain a part of it, heartwarming.
The chemistry with Rick is palpable, and the mature way they approach their relationship is beautiful. Even when the difficulties of a long distance relationship, and past family grudges, Rick and Jessica remain positive and work together. This is not a book of angst and miscommunication, but a sweet, humorous story of love, with a repeating cast of small town characters thrown delightfully into the mix. ~ George, 5 stars
October 20, 2015
*I received a free ARC of Controlled Burn from Carina Press via Netgalley in exchange of an honest and unbiased review*
Both Jess and Rick were strong characters, with the odds stacked against them, thus making Controlled Burn both beautiful and a little melancholy.
This and all my other reviews are originally posted on my blog (un)Conventional Bookviews
Both Jess and Rick were strong characters, with the odds stacked against them, thus making Controlled Burn both beautiful and a little melancholy.
This and all my other reviews are originally posted on my blog (un)Conventional Bookviews
October 18, 2018
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
I know it seems like I'm really far behind on this series. And I am a little bit but I also forget to review this one so...
What can I say, things get away from me every once in a while. So since I found that I missed reviewing this one I thought I better get to it.
I really love Stacey's writing and her Boston Fire series has been really fun to read. Lovable characters, good writing and fast moving story line. All the things I enjoy in my books. Controlled Burn is just that kind of book.
I fell for Rick right away. He is such a sweet guy. He works hard and does all he can to help out his elderly landlords. He does all the things that a grandchild might do with them. Sad that their own grandchild hasn't done anything with them.
So you know where I'm going with this review from the comments above. What can I say, I really didn't like Jessica at first. I get that her father was very anti-parents and that worked when she was a child but she's been a adult for a long time. A adult with money thanks to her father. So all the guilt she felt was well deserved.
After a while she grew on me but I still wasn't sure if she was good enjoy for someone like Rick. He's way to good for her. Yes, by the end of the book she's a different person, but it took awhile. And as it took her that time I had to be in her head while she went over plans to sell her grandparents beautiful home and go home herself.
Not to worry in the end everything worked out just like it should.
I know it seems like I'm really far behind on this series. And I am a little bit but I also forget to review this one so...
What can I say, things get away from me every once in a while. So since I found that I missed reviewing this one I thought I better get to it.
I really love Stacey's writing and her Boston Fire series has been really fun to read. Lovable characters, good writing and fast moving story line. All the things I enjoy in my books. Controlled Burn is just that kind of book.
I fell for Rick right away. He is such a sweet guy. He works hard and does all he can to help out his elderly landlords. He does all the things that a grandchild might do with them. Sad that their own grandchild hasn't done anything with them.
So you know where I'm going with this review from the comments above. What can I say, I really didn't like Jessica at first. I get that her father was very anti-parents and that worked when she was a child but she's been a adult for a long time. A adult with money thanks to her father. So all the guilt she felt was well deserved.
After a while she grew on me but I still wasn't sure if she was good enjoy for someone like Rick. He's way to good for her. Yes, by the end of the book she's a different person, but it took awhile. And as it took her that time I had to be in her head while she went over plans to sell her grandparents beautiful home and go home herself.
Not to worry in the end everything worked out just like it should.
February 6, 2018
Rick and Jessica's story a true Controlled Burn. With her living in on the West coast and him on the East coast you would think they were doomed. But with her traveling back and forth to her new found grandparents they made it work. Their romance was a slow simmer with some sweetness. I really liked there was a family aspect besides the romance in this one.
Tatiana Sokolov is growing on me as a narrator.
Tatiana Sokolov is growing on me as a narrator.
July 18, 2018
Another good listen in the Boston Fire series!
I kinda like the stories about older men who haven’t settled down yet, but finally decide the single life is getting old. And they decide this before some beautiful woman waltzes into their life. I liked the hero, Rick - he dated plenty, but had actual relationships, not just a series of one night stands. That he remained friendly with several of them says he’s a good guy, but just hasn’t found the right person yet.
When fire fighter Rick meets financial planner Jessica, the granddaughter of the couple he rents an apartment from, he’s attracted to her, but tries to keep things in the friend zone. But as they spend more time together, they both realize they have strong feelings for each other. Which is problematic since she lives in San Diego and he lives in Boston.
For the most part, not a whole lot happens, drama-wise, in this book. Rick and Jessica meet, they are a little combative at first because they each are suspicious about the other’s motives, then they get involved and decide to try to keep things going after Jessica returns to San Diego. But I didn’t even mind. I listen to audiobooks while I’m out for my daily walk and doing household chores, and today I kept looking for more things to do so I could keep listening. Despite a plot that is just about nice people, who have a realistic relationship and realistic challenges, I was still engaged with the storytelling. I especially appreciated that the author didn’t take the cliched route by having Rick get hurt during a fire, thus facilitating a deathbed realization that they don’t want to live without each other.
The one thing I didn’t like about this book was the rather abrupt ending without an epilogue. I’m not a fan of the happy for now ending, and that’s what we’re left with. I’m sure we’ll get some more about Rick and Jessica in further books, but I was completely unsatisfied with how things were left. The big conflict happened with about 15 minutes left in the book, and the big apology and kiss-and-make-up scene happens, then the book ends. Does Jessica go back to San Diego for a while? What happens with her job? What happens with Joe and Maria’s house???
I have too many questions, and I want answers! 😜
I kinda like the stories about older men who haven’t settled down yet, but finally decide the single life is getting old. And they decide this before some beautiful woman waltzes into their life. I liked the hero, Rick - he dated plenty, but had actual relationships, not just a series of one night stands. That he remained friendly with several of them says he’s a good guy, but just hasn’t found the right person yet.
When fire fighter Rick meets financial planner Jessica, the granddaughter of the couple he rents an apartment from, he’s attracted to her, but tries to keep things in the friend zone. But as they spend more time together, they both realize they have strong feelings for each other. Which is problematic since she lives in San Diego and he lives in Boston.
For the most part, not a whole lot happens, drama-wise, in this book. Rick and Jessica meet, they are a little combative at first because they each are suspicious about the other’s motives, then they get involved and decide to try to keep things going after Jessica returns to San Diego. But I didn’t even mind. I listen to audiobooks while I’m out for my daily walk and doing household chores, and today I kept looking for more things to do so I could keep listening. Despite a plot that is just about nice people, who have a realistic relationship and realistic challenges, I was still engaged with the storytelling. I especially appreciated that the author didn’t take the cliched route by having Rick get hurt during a fire, thus facilitating a deathbed realization that they don’t want to live without each other.
The one thing I didn’t like about this book was the rather abrupt ending without an epilogue. I’m not a fan of the happy for now ending, and that’s what we’re left with. I’m sure we’ll get some more about Rick and Jessica in further books, but I was completely unsatisfied with how things were left. The big conflict happened with about 15 minutes left in the book, and the big apology and kiss-and-make-up scene happens, then the book ends. Does Jessica go back to San Diego for a while? What happens with her job? What happens with Joe and Maria’s house???
I have too many questions, and I want answers! 😜
March 6, 2016
Stacey makes me want a firefighter of my own. I liked this book, but some of Jessica's issues with her dad and his family bothered me a little bit.
Full review to come at www.thebookpushers.com
Full review to come at www.thebookpushers.com
November 22, 2019
3.5 Stars.
Enjoyed this one more than book 1, felt like it had a good balance of relationship building and also enjoyed the fish-out-of-water device which was a fun change of pace. I also liked that the family drama was a little less intense/involved than book one, it was still present and impactful but didn't overwhelmingly influence the relationship.
I will continue the series, but at a leisurely pace as I don't tend to read a lot of contemporary romance. But when I'm in the mood for one, I know this is a great series to pick up!
Enjoyed this one more than book 1, felt like it had a good balance of relationship building and also enjoyed the fish-out-of-water device which was a fun change of pace. I also liked that the family drama was a little less intense/involved than book one, it was still present and impactful but didn't overwhelmingly influence the relationship.
I will continue the series, but at a leisurely pace as I don't tend to read a lot of contemporary romance. But when I'm in the mood for one, I know this is a great series to pick up!
November 29, 2015
Finally, I am out of my reading slump. I've read too many books of late that have had unnecessary drama and weak storylines and it was refreshing to pick up and read a low-drama, low-angst, romantic story with a couple who were completely endearing. I love me a fireman and Rick Gullotti was just what I needed.
"Is licking a pole on your list of things to do whilst in Boston or what?
The second book in Shannon Stacey's Boston Fire series focuses on Rick's blossoming relationship with his elderly landlords' granddaughter, Jessica; the granddaughter neither Joe or Marie Broussard knew they had. And, being pretty much a son to them, Rick is wary of Jess' real agenda whilst being hugely attracted to her. As she is him.
This couple were a delight. Their relationship was well-paced and fitting of their situation and mild distrust of one another, concentrating on them rather than what they got up to in the bedroom. And it was this that I appreciated; they had a story and one which was so easy to become immersed in. But, for all that it was sweet, sexy and fun, I have to be honest and say that the ending hugely let this book down; it was rushed and just ended with certain aspects of the story, left unanswered.
All in all though, if you're looking for an easy-read enjoyable romance with a great cast of characters Controlled Burn ticks the boxes. Looking forward to the next in the series.
Copy received courtesy of Carina Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
"Is licking a pole on your list of things to do whilst in Boston or what?
The second book in Shannon Stacey's Boston Fire series focuses on Rick's blossoming relationship with his elderly landlords' granddaughter, Jessica; the granddaughter neither Joe or Marie Broussard knew they had. And, being pretty much a son to them, Rick is wary of Jess' real agenda whilst being hugely attracted to her. As she is him.
This couple were a delight. Their relationship was well-paced and fitting of their situation and mild distrust of one another, concentrating on them rather than what they got up to in the bedroom. And it was this that I appreciated; they had a story and one which was so easy to become immersed in. But, for all that it was sweet, sexy and fun, I have to be honest and say that the ending hugely let this book down; it was rushed and just ended with certain aspects of the story, left unanswered.
All in all though, if you're looking for an easy-read enjoyable romance with a great cast of characters Controlled Burn ticks the boxes. Looking forward to the next in the series.
Copy received courtesy of Carina Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
January 15, 2016
Hotness Rating 3 out of 5
I loved this book! Controlled Burn, the 2nd book of the Boston Fire series, by Shannon Stacey has me hooked. I mean who doesn't love a hot firefighter who in his spare time helps out his elderly neighbors?
When Jessica Broussard shows up on her grandparents doorstep to "help" them out Rick is instantly suspicious. After all, Jessica is an adult woman who has never showed any interest in visiting her grandparents let alone help them.
Rick Gullotti is a great character who leaves you sighing in his wake. I love how he and Jessica kind of circle one another. Jessica just wants to do the right thing by the grandparents she has fallen head over heals in love with. But, each question the other's motives while fighting the undeniable sparks that fly when they are anywhere near each other.
This book will provide you hours of sigh-worthy moments. I loved these characters and was sad when the book ended.
**This book was provided to me by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review**
I loved this book! Controlled Burn, the 2nd book of the Boston Fire series, by Shannon Stacey has me hooked. I mean who doesn't love a hot firefighter who in his spare time helps out his elderly neighbors?
When Jessica Broussard shows up on her grandparents doorstep to "help" them out Rick is instantly suspicious. After all, Jessica is an adult woman who has never showed any interest in visiting her grandparents let alone help them.
Rick Gullotti is a great character who leaves you sighing in his wake. I love how he and Jessica kind of circle one another. Jessica just wants to do the right thing by the grandparents she has fallen head over heals in love with. But, each question the other's motives while fighting the undeniable sparks that fly when they are anywhere near each other.
This book will provide you hours of sigh-worthy moments. I loved these characters and was sad when the book ended.
**This book was provided to me by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review**
January 22, 2016
Loved it! Really enjoyed the slow and steady development of the relationship between the H/h. While immediately attracted no insta-love in these stories and I find that refreshing. Also refreshing is the low level of angst. They know the obstacles in front of them and have to decide if they can overcome them. Wow, kinda like life! Rick and Jessica are great together and I adored Joe and Marie, Jessica's grandparents. This author has such great characters in all her books. I highly recommend this one! Now bring on Scotty's story!! I am so ready!
November 25, 2015
I'm likin this series so far my only complaint is the ending of this book like wtf I need answers lol the ending seemed rushed and idk shit
May 1, 2017
I wasn't sure about Rick and Jessica at first. Jessica is a bit uptight but you realize that a lot of that comes from her dad. I disliked her dad because he was a major self centered asswipe. Rick has some interesting perspectives on women that he is just now challenging. I love that women view him as not the marrying type. It made me giggle so much! I really think that he's a guy that wants to be viewed as marriage material but he didn't really want to get married.
Before meeting Jessica, he thought that it was time to settle down. I think that in the end, I really like Jessica and Rick. I liked him more than her but that's because she never seems to apologize for assuming the worst of him. Or maybe I am just projecting one particular scene on to her whole character. Who knows? I do that sometimes.
I did enjoy their romance. I liked how Rick was still into her in spite of their differences. I like how Jessica wanted to experience new things like hockey games. The energy between them was fun and playful. I could feel how into each other they were and I liked it.
I didn't like how Jessica never really calls her dad on his crap. He did some crappy stuff to her and he doesn't really own it. By the way, Jessica's grandparents are adorable! I really like the sense of family that runs through this little neighborhood in Boston. I actually wanted to go and hangout, maybe even watch a hockey game...that's going too far. I don't do sports.
Before meeting Jessica, he thought that it was time to settle down. I think that in the end, I really like Jessica and Rick. I liked him more than her but that's because she never seems to apologize for assuming the worst of him. Or maybe I am just projecting one particular scene on to her whole character. Who knows? I do that sometimes.
I did enjoy their romance. I liked how Rick was still into her in spite of their differences. I like how Jessica wanted to experience new things like hockey games. The energy between them was fun and playful. I could feel how into each other they were and I liked it.
I didn't like how Jessica never really calls her dad on his crap. He did some crappy stuff to her and he doesn't really own it. By the way, Jessica's grandparents are adorable! I really like the sense of family that runs through this little neighborhood in Boston. I actually wanted to go and hangout, maybe even watch a hockey game...that's going too far. I don't do sports.
February 3, 2017
Jessica's father gets a phone call from his estranged grandparent's doctor and doesn't want to even take the message. Jess decides to fly from San Diego to Boston to meet them and help with their finances. Once there she discovers that her father's description of her grandparents doesn't mesh with her experience of them. Jess meets Rick, a firefighter, who is her grandparent's tenant and is initially suspicious of his influence over them and he is suspicious of her motives. They get over this pretty quickly, but initially decide that it wouldn't be a smart idea to get together. Obviously, it doesn't work out that way and they begin to discreetly see each other.
As with Ms. Stacy's other books, there is no high drama, which is great. This doesn't mean that there aren't intense feelings in them, though. Unfortunately, Controlled Burn is pretty bloodless and I didn't see much passion. For example:
On the plus side, I really liked her handling of the relationships between Jess and her father and her father with his parents. I also liked the equality between the heroine and hero.
Shannon Stacy is one of my favorite authors and I will continue reading her books, but this one was a disappointment.
As with Ms. Stacy's other books, there is no high drama, which is great. This doesn't mean that there aren't intense feelings in them, though. Unfortunately, Controlled Burn is pretty bloodless and I didn't see much passion. For example:
On the plus side, I really liked her handling of the relationships between Jess and her father and her father with his parents. I also liked the equality between the heroine and hero.
Shannon Stacy is one of my favorite authors and I will continue reading her books, but this one was a disappointment.
October 20, 2018
- The writing was a lot better in this one and the dialogue and technical stuff felt a lot more natural which made this one a lot more enjoyable
- Again the characters and plot were really good
- There was a great balance of including characters from the first book so we knew what was happening with them, but not including them so much that the book became about them. Too many romance series forget about the couple from the first book, and it makes you wonder why bother making them into a series at all.
- Solid, enjoyable book
- Again the characters and plot were really good
- There was a great balance of including characters from the first book so we knew what was happening with them, but not including them so much that the book became about them. Too many romance series forget about the couple from the first book, and it makes you wonder why bother making them into a series at all.
- Solid, enjoyable book
March 5, 2021
Cute & sweet 😍 arghhh...a very calm book after a very moody week i've been ☺️
November 23, 2015
As a lieutenant with the Boston Fire Department, Rick Gullotti is surrounded by his makeshift family of firefighters. Additionally, he has rented the third floor of Joe and Marie Broussard’s home for years, making him part of their family, especially since their only child, Davey, left in his early twenties and never returned, cutting Joe and Marie out of his life. So when Joe takes a fall, Rick rushes to the hospital to help out, knowing that the phone call to Davey will do no good.
Jessica Broussard is the VP of her father’s financial services firm. While he is unavailable and out-of-touch, she takes a call that tells her the grandparents she’s never met may need help. On a whim, she decides to fly out to Boston to meet the people her father hates, to find out if they even know about her, and try to help them plan for their future as they age.
Once again, I found myself completely wrapped up in Ms. Stacey’s Boston Fire world, which focuses on family - both biological and those we make for ourselves. In Controlled Burn, the Broussard family takes center stage, as Joe and Marie meet and adjust to the granddaughter they never knew existed. Meanwhile, they struggle with the very real issues of growing older and living in a big home that requires a lot of upkeep. On its own, these issues make for an engrossing story; however they also play into the romantic storyline, putting Jessica and Rick together, for better or worse. Luckily it’s all very, very good!
Jessica has always been there for her father, as he has been there for her. Being raised by a single dad, Jessica never really questioned her father’s intent and motives. Although she recognizes his faults and doesn’t necessarily make excuses, she tends to go along with his judgement because overall, he’s a good man. I don’t know how things were before this book, but I do like what I see in Jessica once she arrives in Boston. Needless to say, when her father discovers her trip to his parents home, he’s not happy. But Jessica handles herself well with her father. She recognizes when he’s trying to manipulate her and balances her wants and needs with his position as her boss. She plays him well and makes a small stand while keeping her job and putting him in his place. Witnessing Jessica’s growing relationship with her grandparents, and ultimately with her father provides for a heartwarming and entertaining tale.
Rick is the perfect match for Jessica. He’s patient and kind, and mostly gives her the benefit of the doubt with respect to her reasons for showing up out of the blue. But it’s not easy. They pair hit a few bumps because they each are leery of the other when it comes to motives surrounding Joe and Marie. I appreciate that the author doesn’t overwork that angle, allowing the pair to develop a warm and loving friendship while trying to deny their mutual attraction.
As for the romance, it was more of a slow burn than the spontaneous combustion of the first book. Jessica and Rick’s relationship starts as a tentative friendship that grows as their trust in one another strengthens. They both are conflicted, knowing they come from different worlds, and even close to the end, each continues to question the other’s motives. Although not super hot, their romance is sweet and fitting within the context of the storyline.
As much as I enjoyed Controlled Burn, I felt like the ending happened too quickly. I loved how the couple came together, but what happens next? They have some big decisions to make and matters to address in order to move forward, and I really wanted to see some of that process which would secure the relationship. I felt like I was left hanging a little bit. Hopefully, we’ll see more of Jessica and Rick in the next Boston Fire title.
In the end, I enjoyed the story and romance behind Controlled Burn. Shannon Stacey penned a sweet romance, complete with the small town, family-centric vibe she’s known for, and drops it into a big city environment, which allows for heightened action and tension. While the abruptness of the ending threw me off a bit, the overall story and relationship was well developed. I loved watching Jessica and Rick’s friendship grow over the course of the story, and finally blossom into a passionate love.
My Rating: B+ Liked It A Lot
Jessica Broussard is the VP of her father’s financial services firm. While he is unavailable and out-of-touch, she takes a call that tells her the grandparents she’s never met may need help. On a whim, she decides to fly out to Boston to meet the people her father hates, to find out if they even know about her, and try to help them plan for their future as they age.
Once again, I found myself completely wrapped up in Ms. Stacey’s Boston Fire world, which focuses on family - both biological and those we make for ourselves. In Controlled Burn, the Broussard family takes center stage, as Joe and Marie meet and adjust to the granddaughter they never knew existed. Meanwhile, they struggle with the very real issues of growing older and living in a big home that requires a lot of upkeep. On its own, these issues make for an engrossing story; however they also play into the romantic storyline, putting Jessica and Rick together, for better or worse. Luckily it’s all very, very good!
Jessica has always been there for her father, as he has been there for her. Being raised by a single dad, Jessica never really questioned her father’s intent and motives. Although she recognizes his faults and doesn’t necessarily make excuses, she tends to go along with his judgement because overall, he’s a good man. I don’t know how things were before this book, but I do like what I see in Jessica once she arrives in Boston. Needless to say, when her father discovers her trip to his parents home, he’s not happy. But Jessica handles herself well with her father. She recognizes when he’s trying to manipulate her and balances her wants and needs with his position as her boss. She plays him well and makes a small stand while keeping her job and putting him in his place. Witnessing Jessica’s growing relationship with her grandparents, and ultimately with her father provides for a heartwarming and entertaining tale.
Rick is the perfect match for Jessica. He’s patient and kind, and mostly gives her the benefit of the doubt with respect to her reasons for showing up out of the blue. But it’s not easy. They pair hit a few bumps because they each are leery of the other when it comes to motives surrounding Joe and Marie. I appreciate that the author doesn’t overwork that angle, allowing the pair to develop a warm and loving friendship while trying to deny their mutual attraction.
As for the romance, it was more of a slow burn than the spontaneous combustion of the first book. Jessica and Rick’s relationship starts as a tentative friendship that grows as their trust in one another strengthens. They both are conflicted, knowing they come from different worlds, and even close to the end, each continues to question the other’s motives. Although not super hot, their romance is sweet and fitting within the context of the storyline.
As much as I enjoyed Controlled Burn, I felt like the ending happened too quickly. I loved how the couple came together, but what happens next? They have some big decisions to make and matters to address in order to move forward, and I really wanted to see some of that process which would secure the relationship. I felt like I was left hanging a little bit. Hopefully, we’ll see more of Jessica and Rick in the next Boston Fire title.
In the end, I enjoyed the story and romance behind Controlled Burn. Shannon Stacey penned a sweet romance, complete with the small town, family-centric vibe she’s known for, and drops it into a big city environment, which allows for heightened action and tension. While the abruptness of the ending threw me off a bit, the overall story and relationship was well developed. I loved watching Jessica and Rick’s friendship grow over the course of the story, and finally blossom into a passionate love.
My Rating: B+ Liked It A Lot
January 28, 2016
This author always seems to provide all the things I love in a good romance family saga. What I like most is she seems to include the township into the conflict adding to the comedy and the pain that keeps this saga moving.
What is heart breaking about this story is Jessica Broussard is in her mid-thirties and has never been married. That’s not the sad part. The sad part is she has never really had a mother’s love or her dad’s for that matter. You see her mother ran out on them when she was three (still have questions about that one.) Her father has been emotionally unavailable the rest of the time.
She was made to believe she had no one but him. Now this is the sad part…he told her his parents were not good people and alcoholics. Not worth their time. So, her whole life he has groomed her to take over his financial management company of which she is V.P. but due to his 4th divorce it is now in her hands.
Due to the fact that a call comes in for him concerning his father from the emergency room in Boston and they wouldn’t discuss it with her she calls him. Before she can say what she needs he says handle it. So, she does. She delegates at the office and goes remote and takes off to Boston to meet and check on these so called grandparents in California. Her plan: move them to a retirement home, sell their home, and get out of town. But as soon as she arrives she meets Rick Gullotti.
Rick tells her he is a renter on the third floor but she can tell by how guarded he is that he is much more to her grandparents. Once she explains who she is he takes her in. Needless to say it was a shock to them all because her grandparents had no idea they had a granddaughter at all. They ask her to tell them about herself and she does.
Rick doesn’t hear anything to suspect she is there to hurt the people he has come to love like family but something doesn’t feel right. He knows he can’t let his attraction for her stir him in the wrong direction. Even if her lips are the kind that look so inviting. It’s when he brings in her bags and things that he sees the note pad with house comps for the surrounding neighborhoods that his feathers go up and he knows he needs to watch Joe and Marie’s back even from their sexy as hell granddaughter.
Now they are having to not only give each other room to see if each other is truly trustworthy but they have to get to know each other’s through Joe and Marie’s eyes as well and vice a versa. Davy is an alcoholic with nothing but hate for his parents and it seems like nothing but total manipulation when it comes to his daughter. Who can Jessica believe?
I totally enjoyed this story but wished there had been an epilogue. I feel it left so many things up in the air. Did they get married? Did they buy the house? Did the father make peace with his parents? Otherwise, the relationship she forged with her grandparents was so nice and the father well…I love the firehouse and the firefighters within. 4 stars Provided by netgalley.com.
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What is heart breaking about this story is Jessica Broussard is in her mid-thirties and has never been married. That’s not the sad part. The sad part is she has never really had a mother’s love or her dad’s for that matter. You see her mother ran out on them when she was three (still have questions about that one.) Her father has been emotionally unavailable the rest of the time.
She was made to believe she had no one but him. Now this is the sad part…he told her his parents were not good people and alcoholics. Not worth their time. So, her whole life he has groomed her to take over his financial management company of which she is V.P. but due to his 4th divorce it is now in her hands.
Due to the fact that a call comes in for him concerning his father from the emergency room in Boston and they wouldn’t discuss it with her she calls him. Before she can say what she needs he says handle it. So, she does. She delegates at the office and goes remote and takes off to Boston to meet and check on these so called grandparents in California. Her plan: move them to a retirement home, sell their home, and get out of town. But as soon as she arrives she meets Rick Gullotti.
Rick tells her he is a renter on the third floor but she can tell by how guarded he is that he is much more to her grandparents. Once she explains who she is he takes her in. Needless to say it was a shock to them all because her grandparents had no idea they had a granddaughter at all. They ask her to tell them about herself and she does.
Rick doesn’t hear anything to suspect she is there to hurt the people he has come to love like family but something doesn’t feel right. He knows he can’t let his attraction for her stir him in the wrong direction. Even if her lips are the kind that look so inviting. It’s when he brings in her bags and things that he sees the note pad with house comps for the surrounding neighborhoods that his feathers go up and he knows he needs to watch Joe and Marie’s back even from their sexy as hell granddaughter.
Now they are having to not only give each other room to see if each other is truly trustworthy but they have to get to know each other’s through Joe and Marie’s eyes as well and vice a versa. Davy is an alcoholic with nothing but hate for his parents and it seems like nothing but total manipulation when it comes to his daughter. Who can Jessica believe?
I totally enjoyed this story but wished there had been an epilogue. I feel it left so many things up in the air. Did they get married? Did they buy the house? Did the father make peace with his parents? Otherwise, the relationship she forged with her grandparents was so nice and the father well…I love the firehouse and the firefighters within. 4 stars Provided by netgalley.com.
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December 13, 2015
This is the second story in the Boston Fire series (all standalone) and is about Rick, the guy whom no-one thinks will ever settle down with one woman, and Jessica. Jessica is the heretofore unknown granddaughter of Rick's landlord's Marie and Joe, who makes a trip to Boston to meet them when she handles a message for their estranged son (her dad) about a medical problem. Her dad is still on their contact list even though he's had no interaction with them in years, and Jess decides that she wants to meet them. What she doesn't expect is to meet Rick, and share an instant attraction to him. The situation is awkward at first, but eventually their chemistry takes over and a fling ensues. But Jess's life is in San Diego - can Rick convince her that he'd be worth staying for?
I always enjoy Shannon's stories, because they they are (for me anyway) heartwarming, low angst lovely romances and this one is no exception. Rick and Jess are rightfully wary of each other at the start, and it takes a bit of time to build up the trust between them. For all Rick knows, Jess could be there to fleece her newfound grandparents, and as far as Jess is concerned, Rick might be out to do the same. But it becomes obvious pretty quickly that they are both decent and friendly people (not to mention attractive to each other). Though getting involved with her grandparent's tenant is a mistake for Jess, especially because she doesn't plan to stay, she can't help but give in to that attraction. Their love scenes are smolderingly sexy, and deepen the connection between them. Jess's father David is a bit of an enigma - he has cut off all contact with his parents for several reasons (none of which he ever shared with Jess until now) and Jess is torn between her loyalty to the man who raised her and his parents who are not at all the way she's been told they are.
The scenes with Rick and his firefighter comrades add some great camaraderie as well as action scenes (it is a firefighter book after all) that move the plot along and add just the right amount of tension. There are bumps in the road for Jess and Rick as they navigate their new relationship and whether a long distance affair is possible. My one complaint was that the ending felt rushed - it's kind of a happy for now one, but there were a few too many unanswered questions for me. I kept trying to turn the page on my ereader, thinking I'd somehow missed a chapter or an epilogue! So with that in mind, it's a 3.5 stars for me. I hope that the next story in the series will answer some of those questions.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
I always enjoy Shannon's stories, because they they are (for me anyway) heartwarming, low angst lovely romances and this one is no exception. Rick and Jess are rightfully wary of each other at the start, and it takes a bit of time to build up the trust between them. For all Rick knows, Jess could be there to fleece her newfound grandparents, and as far as Jess is concerned, Rick might be out to do the same. But it becomes obvious pretty quickly that they are both decent and friendly people (not to mention attractive to each other). Though getting involved with her grandparent's tenant is a mistake for Jess, especially because she doesn't plan to stay, she can't help but give in to that attraction. Their love scenes are smolderingly sexy, and deepen the connection between them. Jess's father David is a bit of an enigma - he has cut off all contact with his parents for several reasons (none of which he ever shared with Jess until now) and Jess is torn between her loyalty to the man who raised her and his parents who are not at all the way she's been told they are.
The scenes with Rick and his firefighter comrades add some great camaraderie as well as action scenes (it is a firefighter book after all) that move the plot along and add just the right amount of tension. There are bumps in the road for Jess and Rick as they navigate their new relationship and whether a long distance affair is possible. My one complaint was that the ending felt rushed - it's kind of a happy for now one, but there were a few too many unanswered questions for me. I kept trying to turn the page on my ereader, thinking I'd somehow missed a chapter or an epilogue! So with that in mind, it's a 3.5 stars for me. I hope that the next story in the series will answer some of those questions.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
December 3, 2015
My Review:
This book is a sweet, easy, entertaining read with a very light romance. There's no heavy angst with this one...just pure romance featuring one very hot firefighter and one slightly uptight financial advisor. The romance was fairly easy and happy and I enjoyed the chemistry between Rick and Jessica.
But it felt like the meat of the story fell within Jessica's family. She's in Boston (although she lives in San Diego) to meet and take care of a situation with her grandparents. The thing is...neither Jessica nor her grandparents knew the other existed for the first 34 years of her life. David/Davey is estranged from his parents and never told them about his daughter or his daughter about them. But they're getting older and their doctor was concerned so he called David as their next of kin. Jessica took the call and with her father "unavailable" flew to Boston to figure out the situation. See, you can tell...this is where the really emotional aspects of the story come into play.
Rick is a part of all this because he rents the upper floor of Jessica's grandparents house and has for a lot of years. He keeps an eye on them and takes care of the house along with being a firefighter. It's a complication because of the house situation and the fact that Jessica lives on a whole other coast, but Rick and Jessica are drawn to one another.
There was a lot about this book that I really enjoyed:
*of course the fact that Rick is a firefighter is a major WIN. I really enjoyed the scenes of him at the fire station.
*Jessica's grandmother cracked me up, but I also really loved her and her attitude toward David. It would be so easy to be bitter about the fact that he's stayed away for so long, but she actively tries to keep from putting Jessica in the middle of a difficult situation.
*I liked the glimpses of change that we saw in David although he was really never a truly active part of the story.
*Like I said the book was just an easy, entertaining read. It's nice to not have the huge, heavy drama in a lot of other romance out there (and I laughed when Jessica was detailing the sexy times in the romance book she was reading and how unlikely sex was in those situations.)
I've always like Shannon Stacey's writing and I'd definitely recommend this one and any of her other books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This book is a sweet, easy, entertaining read with a very light romance. There's no heavy angst with this one...just pure romance featuring one very hot firefighter and one slightly uptight financial advisor. The romance was fairly easy and happy and I enjoyed the chemistry between Rick and Jessica.
But it felt like the meat of the story fell within Jessica's family. She's in Boston (although she lives in San Diego) to meet and take care of a situation with her grandparents. The thing is...neither Jessica nor her grandparents knew the other existed for the first 34 years of her life. David/Davey is estranged from his parents and never told them about his daughter or his daughter about them. But they're getting older and their doctor was concerned so he called David as their next of kin. Jessica took the call and with her father "unavailable" flew to Boston to figure out the situation. See, you can tell...this is where the really emotional aspects of the story come into play.
Rick is a part of all this because he rents the upper floor of Jessica's grandparents house and has for a lot of years. He keeps an eye on them and takes care of the house along with being a firefighter. It's a complication because of the house situation and the fact that Jessica lives on a whole other coast, but Rick and Jessica are drawn to one another.
There was a lot about this book that I really enjoyed:
*of course the fact that Rick is a firefighter is a major WIN. I really enjoyed the scenes of him at the fire station.
*Jessica's grandmother cracked me up, but I also really loved her and her attitude toward David. It would be so easy to be bitter about the fact that he's stayed away for so long, but she actively tries to keep from putting Jessica in the middle of a difficult situation.
*I liked the glimpses of change that we saw in David although he was really never a truly active part of the story.
*Like I said the book was just an easy, entertaining read. It's nice to not have the huge, heavy drama in a lot of other romance out there (and I laughed when Jessica was detailing the sexy times in the romance book she was reading and how unlikely sex was in those situations.)
I've always like Shannon Stacey's writing and I'd definitely recommend this one and any of her other books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
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