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Fire and Rain #3
Nothing But Smoke
Sometimes good boys do bad things.
Fire and Rain, Book 3
Michael Larson considers himself one of the good guys. He recycles, eats mostly vegan, and volunteers. But one night, while on a jog through a Seattle park, he encounters a sexy man on a motorcycle he wants to be bad with.
Firefighter Nicky O’Brian barely has time to even think about a sex life. Between his job and caring for his critically ill mother, his only pleasures involve a few racy videos and occasional nighttime forays to find men willing to help him forget his troubles.
It was supposed to be a one-time, anonymous hookup—until fate intervenes and their mutual attraction blossoms into a furtive affair. Michael doesn’t date closeted guys, but for the haunted, lonely Nicky he makes an exception.
When Nicky’s mother takes a turn for the worse, Michael is forced to make a choice between idealism and compassion. And as Nicky’s needs spiral out of control, Michael realizes that a new set of ideals could be exactly what he needs to keep love in his life—for good.
Contains sex in the trees, sex in parked cars, and sex in other uncomfortable places. Tissues are required, because the ending will make you cry—and maybe make you want to call your Mom.
214 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 10, 2014
7 people are currently reading
427 people want to read
About the author
Daisy Harris
43 books346 followersRetired party girl and science fiction enthusiast, Daisy Harris spends most of her time writing sexy romance and plotting the fall of Western civilization. Her books can be found on Amazon, Nook, and wherever else fine erotic romance is sold.
Ms. Harris lives in Seattle, where she tortures her husband by making it rain. She enjoys watching bridges cause traffic, watching football games cause traffic, and blithely wearing wool socks with sandals.
She has never taken a single picture in which her bra strap is not showing.
Want to find out about new releases, general news, and my latest inappropriate boy band crush? Sign up for my newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/b96xX
Ms. Harris lives in Seattle, where she tortures her husband by making it rain. She enjoys watching bridges cause traffic, watching football games cause traffic, and blithely wearing wool socks with sandals.
She has never taken a single picture in which her bra strap is not showing.
Want to find out about new releases, general news, and my latest inappropriate boy band crush? Sign up for my newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/b96xX
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
May 4, 2016
Michael knows that falling for guys in closets is a good way to get your heart broken. He learned that lesson rather well from his ex. So now he is rather adamant that all dates should be closet free. Not that that stops him from sucking off guys in parks, regardless of their closet-status–-but blowjobs in wooded areas, does not a date make, so he figures it is better than the alternative: celibacy.
With everything going on with his life, Nicky just doesn’t have the time for the truth. Hell, he barely has time for a blowjob-–what with his shifts at the fire department, and taking care of his terminally ill mother-–but a man just needs a little relief now and again. And having something-–even something a little sketchy–-that doesn’t involve death, or pain, or responsibility is probably the only thing keeping him sane.
Michael will compromise his rules for no one-–until he finds a man who blows him out of the water. Nicky will stay safe in his closet-–until he finds someone who’d hold him when the doors come crashing down. But can either of them handle the pressure of lies, illness, and half-steps, when they have only just found each other?
I really liked this book, the third in Harris’s Fire and Rain series. In fact, I think I might have liked it more than either of the first two books. Nicky, and his mother, totally broke my heart, and despite the fact that I have never really liked Michael before, he really does shine in this book.
Michael comes across as a bit militant–-in regards to what he considers the right way to be gay–-in the previous books, but I think this book takes the time to show just why he acts that way. And after having dealt with the shit that his ex threw at him, I guess I get why he would never want to get involved with a dude with closet issues. There were times where I felt he might have been pushing a little too hard on Nicky–-I mean the dude is having to deal with some heavy shit, he does not need you on his case right now-–but I think his insistence did help Nicky see that the truth sometimes is a lot easier to handle than all the lies.
I didn’t know what to expect from Nicky, but this big firefighter was a bit of a shocker. Well, maybe not so much shock as pleasantly surprised. I’ve never been one to demand my MCs stick to ‘traditional’ roles (Big=Toppy; Small=Total Bottom), but still…there is something rather sexy about Nicky just letting go and letting Michael take care of him. I don’t think he could handle taking care of anyone else, at this point in his life. I have no doubts they will equalize more after they get past all this stuff going on during the book, but for now Nicky needs someone who will not try to take what little is left of his energy. And Michael doesn’t take–-he shares. He helps Nicky, and while Nicky’s closet is something that Michael hates, he also starts to see why it is not quite as easy as renting a plane and sky-writing his sexuality all over the Seattle skyline.
I guess my only complaint is that the book kinda climaxed rather abruptly. The quick jump of time between several of the breaks, meant that I didn’t really get to see the relationship grow as much as I would have liked. They went from tentative truce to basically moving in with each other, and I wish I had got a chance to see them take that road, instead of this jumping straight to point B. It also didn’t help that the book ends at like 90% of the book content length on my kindle. I think I was just expecting there to be more, and when it ended I kept wanting to shake my kindle to find the missing chapter.
But this book did have me in tears, and both Nicky and Michael were great characters, as much as this was a great story. There wasn’t much of the fire-fighting aspect in this book, so if you are looking for something that is a little heavier on the actual work aspect, you should be aware of that. But this is a quick, good, book, and I highly recommend you pick this one up-–even if you haven’t read the two other books in the series.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
With everything going on with his life, Nicky just doesn’t have the time for the truth. Hell, he barely has time for a blowjob-–what with his shifts at the fire department, and taking care of his terminally ill mother-–but a man just needs a little relief now and again. And having something-–even something a little sketchy–-that doesn’t involve death, or pain, or responsibility is probably the only thing keeping him sane.
Michael will compromise his rules for no one-–until he finds a man who blows him out of the water. Nicky will stay safe in his closet-–until he finds someone who’d hold him when the doors come crashing down. But can either of them handle the pressure of lies, illness, and half-steps, when they have only just found each other?
I really liked this book, the third in Harris’s Fire and Rain series. In fact, I think I might have liked it more than either of the first two books. Nicky, and his mother, totally broke my heart, and despite the fact that I have never really liked Michael before, he really does shine in this book.
Michael comes across as a bit militant–-in regards to what he considers the right way to be gay–-in the previous books, but I think this book takes the time to show just why he acts that way. And after having dealt with the shit that his ex threw at him, I guess I get why he would never want to get involved with a dude with closet issues. There were times where I felt he might have been pushing a little too hard on Nicky–-I mean the dude is having to deal with some heavy shit, he does not need you on his case right now-–but I think his insistence did help Nicky see that the truth sometimes is a lot easier to handle than all the lies.
I didn’t know what to expect from Nicky, but this big firefighter was a bit of a shocker. Well, maybe not so much shock as pleasantly surprised. I’ve never been one to demand my MCs stick to ‘traditional’ roles (Big=Toppy; Small=Total Bottom), but still…there is something rather sexy about Nicky just letting go and letting Michael take care of him. I don’t think he could handle taking care of anyone else, at this point in his life. I have no doubts they will equalize more after they get past all this stuff going on during the book, but for now Nicky needs someone who will not try to take what little is left of his energy. And Michael doesn’t take–-he shares. He helps Nicky, and while Nicky’s closet is something that Michael hates, he also starts to see why it is not quite as easy as renting a plane and sky-writing his sexuality all over the Seattle skyline.
I guess my only complaint is that the book kinda climaxed rather abruptly. The quick jump of time between several of the breaks, meant that I didn’t really get to see the relationship grow as much as I would have liked. They went from tentative truce to basically moving in with each other, and I wish I had got a chance to see them take that road, instead of this jumping straight to point B. It also didn’t help that the book ends at like 90% of the book content length on my kindle. I think I was just expecting there to be more, and when it ended I kept wanting to shake my kindle to find the missing chapter.
But this book did have me in tears, and both Nicky and Michael were great characters, as much as this was a great story. There wasn’t much of the fire-fighting aspect in this book, so if you are looking for something that is a little heavier on the actual work aspect, you should be aware of that. But this is a quick, good, book, and I highly recommend you pick this one up-–even if you haven’t read the two other books in the series.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
December 28, 2014
This book just didn't work for me. There was zero chemistry between Nicky and Michael, and I didn't understand why they were together. Neither wanted a relationship, and yet when the other told someone they were just friends, they got mad at each other. And Michael knew Nicky's mom was dying and he didn't want to tell her that he was gay, but Michael kept getting angry at Nicky for pretending they were friends in front of his mother. I don't understand why he was mad. I mean they'd only known each other for maybe a week, so the guy doesn't want to come out to his dying mother. You don't want a relationship, so who cares?! These two spent so much time being mad at each other I'm really not sure why either stuck around. The I love yous came across as forced, like they were said just to try to make the other happy or to not ditch out of their relationship.
January 2, 2016
*** 3.5 Stars ***
June 10, 2018
The saying goes – where there is smoke there is a fire – and this story about Michael, an out-and-proud barista, and Nicky, a closeted firefighter certainly proves that. Initially there is a lot of smoke when they meet up in the park for some hot encounters. But the deeper emotions, the fire underneath those encounters is definitely there as well, only neither man wants to admit it. They both have their reasons, and it seems to take them forever to figure out what they are, why they may no longer be valid, and what the heck to do about it. Their conundrum and various conflicts certainly makes for interesting reading.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
June 13, 2014
Review originally posted at http://fictionvixen.com/review-nothin...
I’ve reviewed both of the previous books in the Fire and Rain series by Daisy Harris. Book one, From the Ashes told the story of Tomas and Jesse. The second book, After the Rain, featured Jesse’s friend Henri and another firefighter and co-worker of Tomas’s, Logan. Both were sweet romances that were enjoyable and sexy. Nothing But Nothing But Smoke, is the third book and tells the story of Michael and Nicky. After reading the previous two books I wasn’t exactly jazzed to read Michael’s story. He didn’t seem to be the most likeable character as I thought he came across as bossy and just a bit stuck up. But I like this author’s voice and really wanted to carry on with this series, so I requested for review.
When Michael first meets Nicky it’s in a local hook up spot in the park. Nicky rides up on his motorcycle and his big, muscled, leather clad body is just what Michael wants for a little anonymous fun. Once they get behind the bushes its clear to Michael that Nicky is uncomfortable and not at all at ease with what they are doing. Almost like he’s a straight man by day and only let’s his true self out of the closet under the cover of darkness, which is the type of man Michael has sworn to himself he’ll never get involved with again. Since he doesn’t plan on seeing him ever again it’s not that big a deal, they’ll get each other off and then go their own ways.
That is until they see each other again at a local firefighter charity event.
Nicky spends all his time either at home taking care of his dying mother or at work. The only time he takes anything for himself is when he sneaks away to the park. He’s unsure, tentative and a little shy about meeting men the way he does. But since discovering his interest in boys as a teenager he’s never fully admitted his sexuality to himself much less his extremely religious mother. Now that she’s sick and has so little time left he can’t bring himself to upset her. Everything changes when he runs into Michael again. He feels compelled to keep seeing him. Michael is the only person in his life that knows and understands his desires. What starts out as a purely sexual arrangement quickly moves to a deep friendship and an emotional intimacy that transcends Michael’s need to have an out and proud partner and Nicky’s confusion over coming out while also grieving over his mother’s illness.
This book was so much deeper than the others in the series. While the first two also dealt with coming out of the closet and being true to yourself, Nothing But Smoke has an added layer of conflict because of the impending death of Nicky’s mother, and I thought it was all handled beautifully by this author. Because of a past relationship that ended badly Michael has serious issues about being with a man who wants to be his lover when they are alone, but won’t even hold his hand in public. Michael has some tough decisions to make regarding this new relationship and what he will give up in the process. How far should he push to have their relationship validated? How long should he wait for Nicky? Does it even matter if Nicky’s mother ever knows of their relationship?
Nicky is in a dark, scary place knowing his mother’s death is close. Even while he is building something new with Michael and navigating through his feelings over what that means for his life, he is moving in and out of the classic stages of grief and loss. As someone who has taken care of a terminally ill parent I connected with Nicky and his struggles with his feelings over his mother and her illness almost immediately. I can not imagine how much more trying that time would have been in my life if I had to struggle with my sexual identity as well. Michael becomes his rock and I adored him in this story because he sets aside his own issues in order to be who Nicky needs. So while I might have had reservations over Michael when the story began, I had a soft spot for him by the HEA.
This is a deep, emotional story that deals with grief, acceptance and finding happiness and a measure of peace. In the end this was my favorite of the series so far. I connected with this couple and completely enjoyed their journey and happily ever after. Final Grade- B+
Favorite Quote:
“Yeah, she would have, Nicky. She would have told you she loved you no matter what, and that she’d always be your mom.”
I’ve reviewed both of the previous books in the Fire and Rain series by Daisy Harris. Book one, From the Ashes told the story of Tomas and Jesse. The second book, After the Rain, featured Jesse’s friend Henri and another firefighter and co-worker of Tomas’s, Logan. Both were sweet romances that were enjoyable and sexy. Nothing But Nothing But Smoke, is the third book and tells the story of Michael and Nicky. After reading the previous two books I wasn’t exactly jazzed to read Michael’s story. He didn’t seem to be the most likeable character as I thought he came across as bossy and just a bit stuck up. But I like this author’s voice and really wanted to carry on with this series, so I requested for review.
When Michael first meets Nicky it’s in a local hook up spot in the park. Nicky rides up on his motorcycle and his big, muscled, leather clad body is just what Michael wants for a little anonymous fun. Once they get behind the bushes its clear to Michael that Nicky is uncomfortable and not at all at ease with what they are doing. Almost like he’s a straight man by day and only let’s his true self out of the closet under the cover of darkness, which is the type of man Michael has sworn to himself he’ll never get involved with again. Since he doesn’t plan on seeing him ever again it’s not that big a deal, they’ll get each other off and then go their own ways.
That is until they see each other again at a local firefighter charity event.
Nicky spends all his time either at home taking care of his dying mother or at work. The only time he takes anything for himself is when he sneaks away to the park. He’s unsure, tentative and a little shy about meeting men the way he does. But since discovering his interest in boys as a teenager he’s never fully admitted his sexuality to himself much less his extremely religious mother. Now that she’s sick and has so little time left he can’t bring himself to upset her. Everything changes when he runs into Michael again. He feels compelled to keep seeing him. Michael is the only person in his life that knows and understands his desires. What starts out as a purely sexual arrangement quickly moves to a deep friendship and an emotional intimacy that transcends Michael’s need to have an out and proud partner and Nicky’s confusion over coming out while also grieving over his mother’s illness.
This book was so much deeper than the others in the series. While the first two also dealt with coming out of the closet and being true to yourself, Nothing But Smoke has an added layer of conflict because of the impending death of Nicky’s mother, and I thought it was all handled beautifully by this author. Because of a past relationship that ended badly Michael has serious issues about being with a man who wants to be his lover when they are alone, but won’t even hold his hand in public. Michael has some tough decisions to make regarding this new relationship and what he will give up in the process. How far should he push to have their relationship validated? How long should he wait for Nicky? Does it even matter if Nicky’s mother ever knows of their relationship?
Nicky is in a dark, scary place knowing his mother’s death is close. Even while he is building something new with Michael and navigating through his feelings over what that means for his life, he is moving in and out of the classic stages of grief and loss. As someone who has taken care of a terminally ill parent I connected with Nicky and his struggles with his feelings over his mother and her illness almost immediately. I can not imagine how much more trying that time would have been in my life if I had to struggle with my sexual identity as well. Michael becomes his rock and I adored him in this story because he sets aside his own issues in order to be who Nicky needs. So while I might have had reservations over Michael when the story began, I had a soft spot for him by the HEA.
This is a deep, emotional story that deals with grief, acceptance and finding happiness and a measure of peace. In the end this was my favorite of the series so far. I connected with this couple and completely enjoyed their journey and happily ever after. Final Grade- B+
Favorite Quote:
“Yeah, she would have, Nicky. She would have told you she loved you no matter what, and that she’d always be your mom.”
June 11, 2014
4 Stars
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
I know I said this after reading last book in this series but I think this one is my favorite of the series! My new favorite I guess. ;) I’m totally allowed to change my mind. These just keep getting better IMO. I adored both the MCs. I was completely engaged in the first few pages. I enjoyed their first casual and somewhat seedy hook up in the park. It was hot but promised more to come.
You may remember Michael from a previous book. No worries if you haven’t read the rest of the series. I think you can follow along just fine but they are good reads if you like this one, go back for the others. Micheal isn’t interested in getting involved with a closetted man, He has issues with them. Hook ups are another thing entirely. When he runs into Nicky at a party he learns a little bit more about him and finds out Nicky is firmly off his relationship list because of his fear of being outed. Neither can resist the spark that’s between and things move along pretty fast from there.
I think Nicky not being out actually enhanced the overall heat of the sex scenes. There’s was this desperation to them. Kind of made them more urgent and needy to get a few minutes together to give into their desires. Things move beyond that to friendship and more fairly quickly which made things even better! Sex is hot but it’s so much hotter knowing they’re connecting in a way that’s more than just physical. In fact there wasn’t penetration sex for a good portion of this book but I honestly didn’t miss it I anticipated the moment it would happen.
Nicky’s mom is terminal in this book. I think the author did a great job addressing this. It’s heavy subject matter and could easily overwhelm the story but I didn’t feel it did. She’s also very religious. I think these reasons gave a very real understanding of why Nicky isn’t out and why he can’t even think about starting a relationship with man at this point in his life. His fear is absolutely understandable. The way Michael handles all the things Nicky throws at him kind of makes me love him more. He’s scared of what he’s getting himself into but he knows he can’t walk away. They have a few blow ups but it’s a lot to take in pretty quickly. That’s actually another worry of theirs. Just a little more pressure for the guys! Reading about them working things out and falling in love consumed me for a few hours and isn’t that what we want out of a book? Another one I’d recommend picking up!
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
I know I said this after reading last book in this series but I think this one is my favorite of the series! My new favorite I guess. ;) I’m totally allowed to change my mind. These just keep getting better IMO. I adored both the MCs. I was completely engaged in the first few pages. I enjoyed their first casual and somewhat seedy hook up in the park. It was hot but promised more to come.
You may remember Michael from a previous book. No worries if you haven’t read the rest of the series. I think you can follow along just fine but they are good reads if you like this one, go back for the others. Micheal isn’t interested in getting involved with a closetted man, He has issues with them. Hook ups are another thing entirely. When he runs into Nicky at a party he learns a little bit more about him and finds out Nicky is firmly off his relationship list because of his fear of being outed. Neither can resist the spark that’s between and things move along pretty fast from there.
I think Nicky not being out actually enhanced the overall heat of the sex scenes. There’s was this desperation to them. Kind of made them more urgent and needy to get a few minutes together to give into their desires. Things move beyond that to friendship and more fairly quickly which made things even better! Sex is hot but it’s so much hotter knowing they’re connecting in a way that’s more than just physical. In fact there wasn’t penetration sex for a good portion of this book but I honestly didn’t miss it I anticipated the moment it would happen.
Nicky’s mom is terminal in this book. I think the author did a great job addressing this. It’s heavy subject matter and could easily overwhelm the story but I didn’t feel it did. She’s also very religious. I think these reasons gave a very real understanding of why Nicky isn’t out and why he can’t even think about starting a relationship with man at this point in his life. His fear is absolutely understandable. The way Michael handles all the things Nicky throws at him kind of makes me love him more. He’s scared of what he’s getting himself into but he knows he can’t walk away. They have a few blow ups but it’s a lot to take in pretty quickly. That’s actually another worry of theirs. Just a little more pressure for the guys! Reading about them working things out and falling in love consumed me for a few hours and isn’t that what we want out of a book? Another one I’d recommend picking up!
June 6, 2014
This is the third book in the Fire and Rain series. In this installation we see Michael who we have met before. (He works at the coffee shop with Jesse from book one.) Michael is running in the park one night when he meets Nicky who is there looking for a hook up. Nicky is a fireman and he is deeply closeted. He's never had a boy friend and has only had one off's with guys in parks. In addition he has the added stress of living with and care giving for his mother who is dieing of cancer.
This story was just ok for me. First off I had a hard time connecting with either character. Their relationship starts pretty sleazy and then jumps to something pretty serious really quickly. Nicky was whiney and emotional and while I undestood his mother was sick he still bugged me with his neediness. The relationship moved along at at unrealistic pace and while it wasn't insta-love it was really close. Nicky also moved from deeply closeted, never been with a guy before, to out and proud too quickly to be belieavable for me. There were also a lot of similarities to another famous m/m book and I kept feeling like I had read this plot before.
This is one of those books that didn't have anything major wrong with it in writing, editing etc but it still just didn't work. One of those books that you don't have a concrete reason for not liking, you just don't. If you are a fan of this series you will probably really enjoy this. If you have not read any of the other books in the series you can read this as a stand alone.
This story was just ok for me. First off I had a hard time connecting with either character. Their relationship starts pretty sleazy and then jumps to something pretty serious really quickly. Nicky was whiney and emotional and while I undestood his mother was sick he still bugged me with his neediness. The relationship moved along at at unrealistic pace and while it wasn't insta-love it was really close. Nicky also moved from deeply closeted, never been with a guy before, to out and proud too quickly to be belieavable for me. There were also a lot of similarities to another famous m/m book and I kept feeling like I had read this plot before.
This is one of those books that didn't have anything major wrong with it in writing, editing etc but it still just didn't work. One of those books that you don't have a concrete reason for not liking, you just don't. If you are a fan of this series you will probably really enjoy this. If you have not read any of the other books in the series you can read this as a stand alone.
June 6, 2016
So I'm still not sure what to make of this book. How does one go from anonymous hookup to practically partners? I mean, I guess there are situations where two people meet and are so right for one another but from a hookup in the park? I guess.
Nicky is a still-in-the-closet firefighter who is also taking care of his sick mom full time. She's in the last few months of her life and Nicky, seeking some kind of affection/love/action, goes to the local cruising park and meets Michael. Now there isn't an instant attraction but both admire some of the physical qualities of the other but neither of them thought they'd see each other again. Lo and behold, they meet up again at a picnic. They start to feel an attraction but Michael still has baggage from his ex-boyfriend who was also in the closet and vehemently so and Nicky is fearful that him coming out will be the nail in the coffin so to speak in his very religious mother's terminal prognosis. So they're both stuck in a hard place. One is out and proud but has feelings for someone deeply (though not as deep as you'd think) in the closet and the other is starting to have feelings for someone who is out and proud and wants to be shown off as his boyfriend but Nicky can't as long as he doesn't come out. It's all a little messy.
Again, I felt like this book was a little rushed in places. It seemed like it fast-forwarded in some areas kind of awkwardly. But not a bad book.
Nicky is a still-in-the-closet firefighter who is also taking care of his sick mom full time. She's in the last few months of her life and Nicky, seeking some kind of affection/love/action, goes to the local cruising park and meets Michael. Now there isn't an instant attraction but both admire some of the physical qualities of the other but neither of them thought they'd see each other again. Lo and behold, they meet up again at a picnic. They start to feel an attraction but Michael still has baggage from his ex-boyfriend who was also in the closet and vehemently so and Nicky is fearful that him coming out will be the nail in the coffin so to speak in his very religious mother's terminal prognosis. So they're both stuck in a hard place. One is out and proud but has feelings for someone deeply (though not as deep as you'd think) in the closet and the other is starting to have feelings for someone who is out and proud and wants to be shown off as his boyfriend but Nicky can't as long as he doesn't come out. It's all a little messy.
Again, I felt like this book was a little rushed in places. It seemed like it fast-forwarded in some areas kind of awkwardly. But not a bad book.
April 16, 2016
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 for GR.
Michael and Nicky are an interesting couple. I really liked their story from start to finish they were different. Michael is in so many ways all about control and he's out and proud, refusing to hide in the closet for anyone. He did that once and he's never doing it again...or is he?
Nicky's got a tough row to hoe. At nearly 30 years old he's not only in the closet there's a chance the door is locked and the key has been misplaced add to that a mother who is dying and devoutly Catholic and needless to say Nicky's a little stressed out.
So what happens when these two men collide? Sparks, lots and lots of sparks...good thing Nicky's a fire-fighter. Both Nicky and Michael are forced to rethink what they want and what they'll do to get it and keep it.
I really, really liked this one, I have to say I think Nicky and Michael might be my favourite pairing so far. The angst factor was a little higher in this one, just marginally, but it was still a sweet, sexy read and there might have been a couple of tears.
So now it's on too book #4 and possibly a whole new set of people because I don't remember either of these men from previous stories but one never knows does one?
Michael and Nicky are an interesting couple. I really liked their story from start to finish they were different. Michael is in so many ways all about control and he's out and proud, refusing to hide in the closet for anyone. He did that once and he's never doing it again...or is he?
Nicky's got a tough row to hoe. At nearly 30 years old he's not only in the closet there's a chance the door is locked and the key has been misplaced add to that a mother who is dying and devoutly Catholic and needless to say Nicky's a little stressed out.
So what happens when these two men collide? Sparks, lots and lots of sparks...good thing Nicky's a fire-fighter. Both Nicky and Michael are forced to rethink what they want and what they'll do to get it and keep it.
I really, really liked this one, I have to say I think Nicky and Michael might be my favourite pairing so far. The angst factor was a little higher in this one, just marginally, but it was still a sweet, sexy read and there might have been a couple of tears.
So now it's on too book #4 and possibly a whole new set of people because I don't remember either of these men from previous stories but one never knows does one?
August 13, 2015
Wow, this was depressing. I had a really hard time getting into the supposed budding romance between Nicky and Michael when it was literally wrapped up all around Nicky's dying mother. It seemed that she just took over the whole story, and if this was a story about a woman dying a horrible death from cancer that would be fine. But this was supposed to be a freakin romance. I didn't feel like I got much romance, that's for sure.
Anyway, I finished it, which is about all I can say. I didn't really like Michael or Nicky that much, but I think it's probably because both characters were overshadowed by the dying mother. Michael was a bit arrogant and stand-offish, Nicky was a black hole of neediness. I didn't really get any sense that they even really *liked* each other, which made it really difficult to buy into the idea that they were falling in love with each other.
If there are any more books in this series, I hope to god there's no more dying moms to deal with.
Anyway, I finished it, which is about all I can say. I didn't really like Michael or Nicky that much, but I think it's probably because both characters were overshadowed by the dying mother. Michael was a bit arrogant and stand-offish, Nicky was a black hole of neediness. I didn't really get any sense that they even really *liked* each other, which made it really difficult to buy into the idea that they were falling in love with each other.
If there are any more books in this series, I hope to god there's no more dying moms to deal with.
August 18, 2014
Closeted case? Fine with me. Religious mom? I've no problem. Tons of angst? Bring it on.
Annoying characters, generic never-ending sex scenes, predictable and over-used plot, lack of relationship development, unrealistic in every possible way? That's what's wrong. I think.
I'll read more by this author, just because the writing wasn't bad.
Annoying characters, generic never-ending sex scenes, predictable and over-used plot, lack of relationship development, unrealistic in every possible way? That's what's wrong. I think.
I'll read more by this author, just because the writing wasn't bad.
July 24, 2016
Loved the beginning, was still fun around 50% but then it kinda dropped fast for me, sadly.
I really like the author's writing style, so I'll be checking out more of her work in the future, and probably grab some more backlist titles.
I really like the author's writing style, so I'll be checking out more of her work in the future, and probably grab some more backlist titles.
September 15, 2014
The BEST one yet!!!!
July 31, 2015
Review to follow.
November 6, 2017
I really enjoyed this. Review to come.
Read
June 5, 2019*shrugs* 🤦♀️🤷♀️
March 22, 2017
Great quick read, very well written.
Awesome characters within a good story.
Awesome characters within a good story.
June 28, 2014
3 Coming out Stars!!!
eARC for Honest Review Courtesy of Author & Goddess Fish Promotions
In the last couple of books I have to admit that I was not a big fan of Michael but Daisy has found a way to transform Michael into a sweetheart and not as much of the dick that he has come across as before.
Michael has been once burnt by a closeted case so he is a little gun shy when it comes to relationships especially if they are still in the closet.
For Nicky, he thinks he knows what he wants just has never really wanted to rock his mother's religious beliefs or has he had the time to jump up and grab it. I liked the idea of Nicky but I didn't quite connect with his character.
For Nicky, once he meets Michael and gets to know him a bit better he realizes what he truly needs and wants. To be together with Michael he has to come out of the closet but why rock the boat when his mother is dying.
For Michael, he has rules to guard his heart but I felt like he wasn't patient enough to Nicky's situation. Nicky wasn't remotely like his ex, but Michael safe guarding almost pushes Nicky away. But Nicky is the strong one who fights for them.
Sweet coming out story! I'm a big fan of Daisy Harris and I do like this series as it is quick, sweet and a light MM read.
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June 10, 2014
4.5 stars.
Nothing But Smoke is my favorite installment of Daisy Harris's marvelous Fire and Rain series. The main characters are wonderful and the sex scenes are sinfully steamy. But it is the emotional depth of the story that makes it such a standout read and I loved every minute of this terrific novel.
Michael Larson knows the heartache of dating a man in the closet, and although his encounters with Nicky O'Brian are sizzling hot, he is reluctant to become involved with the sexy firefighter. But after their anonymous hookups become a regular occurrence and Nicky needs a friend after his mother's health worsens, their friendship enters into romantic territory.
Once again, Ms. Harris's fantastic pairing of two completely opposite protagonists adds tension to the story and proves to be a learning experience for Michael as he begins to understand some of Nicky's reasons for keeping his sexuality hidden. Michael has always his mother's unconditional support so his sexuality has never been an issue. His painful experience with a closeted man leaves him very distrustful of entering into a relationship with Nicky but he cannot ignore his growing feelings for him.
Nicky has always been attracted to men and although he has experienced a few fumbling encounters with men, he has never admitted he is gay. Unsure of the reaction he would get from his ultra-religious mother, he has avoided any type of romantic entanglements so dating Michael is completely new territory.
Just as Nicky begins to realize he is ready to explore his sexuality, his is faced with his mother's health crisis. He turns to Michael for support, and while Michael wants to help Nicky, he is also very conflicted about Nicky's need to keep their real relationship hidden from his ill mother. The situation between them is incredibly tense, but once they finally clear the air, they arrive at a compromise that addresses both men's needs.
The sex scenes between Nicky and Michael are deliciously sexy but Nicky's inexperience gives them an unexpected air of innocence. Nicky's attempt to figure out the next step in their lovemaking is endearing and leads to some of the funniest moments in the novel.
The story arc with Nicky's mother is very poignant and a little heartbreaking. It highlights how deeply both men care for their mothers and my heart ached for everything Nicky was going through. Michael is often exasperated with his kooky, non-traditional mother but by the end of the novel, he gains a new appreciation for her.
Nothing But Smoke is a sweet, sexy and incredibly moving addition to the Fire and Rain series. The characters are three-dimensional and multi-faceted with easy to relate to flaws and imperfections. The conflict between Michael and Nicky is realistic and they resolve their issues with very little angst. Another beautiful and heartwarming romance from Daisy Harris that I highly recommend to fans of m/m romances.
Nothing But Smoke is my favorite installment of Daisy Harris's marvelous Fire and Rain series. The main characters are wonderful and the sex scenes are sinfully steamy. But it is the emotional depth of the story that makes it such a standout read and I loved every minute of this terrific novel.
Michael Larson knows the heartache of dating a man in the closet, and although his encounters with Nicky O'Brian are sizzling hot, he is reluctant to become involved with the sexy firefighter. But after their anonymous hookups become a regular occurrence and Nicky needs a friend after his mother's health worsens, their friendship enters into romantic territory.
Once again, Ms. Harris's fantastic pairing of two completely opposite protagonists adds tension to the story and proves to be a learning experience for Michael as he begins to understand some of Nicky's reasons for keeping his sexuality hidden. Michael has always his mother's unconditional support so his sexuality has never been an issue. His painful experience with a closeted man leaves him very distrustful of entering into a relationship with Nicky but he cannot ignore his growing feelings for him.
Nicky has always been attracted to men and although he has experienced a few fumbling encounters with men, he has never admitted he is gay. Unsure of the reaction he would get from his ultra-religious mother, he has avoided any type of romantic entanglements so dating Michael is completely new territory.
Just as Nicky begins to realize he is ready to explore his sexuality, his is faced with his mother's health crisis. He turns to Michael for support, and while Michael wants to help Nicky, he is also very conflicted about Nicky's need to keep their real relationship hidden from his ill mother. The situation between them is incredibly tense, but once they finally clear the air, they arrive at a compromise that addresses both men's needs.
The sex scenes between Nicky and Michael are deliciously sexy but Nicky's inexperience gives them an unexpected air of innocence. Nicky's attempt to figure out the next step in their lovemaking is endearing and leads to some of the funniest moments in the novel.
The story arc with Nicky's mother is very poignant and a little heartbreaking. It highlights how deeply both men care for their mothers and my heart ached for everything Nicky was going through. Michael is often exasperated with his kooky, non-traditional mother but by the end of the novel, he gains a new appreciation for her.
Nothing But Smoke is a sweet, sexy and incredibly moving addition to the Fire and Rain series. The characters are three-dimensional and multi-faceted with easy to relate to flaws and imperfections. The conflict between Michael and Nicky is realistic and they resolve their issues with very little angst. Another beautiful and heartwarming romance from Daisy Harris that I highly recommend to fans of m/m romances.
June 10, 2014
I have become a great fan of Daisy Harris’ writing style. Quirky characters and humorous themes make for an entertaining read. In Nothing But Smoke, however, we are treated to a story with a bit more of an emotional punch and I liked it a lot.
If you’ve read the previous two books, you’ve met Michael. He grew up in a very open, forward thinking home with a mom that is a bit of a hippie. He had a long time boyfriend who was not “out” and since that did not end well, he’s taking it slow and he will not get into a relationship with another man who is hiding or unsure of his sexuality ever again. That doesn’t mean he’s not up for a quick cruise through the local park to see what he can shake out of the trees.
Enter Nicky-a sexy firefighter who I think in his head knows that he is gay but struggles with how it would affect his mother, who is very ill. He heads to the park for the same thing, but when he meets and has his encounter with Michael, for Nicky, some kind of spark ignites in him and he needs more.
I loved that Nicky and Michael met cruising with only getting off in mind but that they turn out to be much more to each other. I liked how Michael puts it out there, right at the beginning with Nicky-he won’t be in a relationship with someone who is hiding, yet when circumstances come to light, he finds himself making exceptions to this rule. I felt Michael’s struggle, especially after an encounter with a priest who had come to spend time with Nicky’s mom and immediately made assumptions about Michael and Nicky’s relationship. I was right there with him, in that moment and wanted to strike out at the priest; this man who professes to be a disciple of God. Michael takes the high road, putting Nicky’s worries and feelings ahead of himself.
While Nicky is struggling with indecision about telling his mom or not, he does see Michael and his friends out in public. I liked how the author gives Michael this one thing in the turmoil that Nicky’s mom’s illness brings to their blossoming relationship. It’s so big, what Nicky has to deal with, while at the same time, you know that he really has it bad for Michael and just wants to explore that. There is a constant feeling of, “it’s not enough, but I have to deal with this first”. There is a poignant scene after Nicky’s mom dies and it is at that moment that Nicky find his courage to say what he need’s to say. I pretty much lost it when this grown man, takes his mother’s hand and says, “Hey, Mommy.” [...] “I…I want to tell you something…”.
I’ve enjoyed all of the characters in this series, but I have to say that I think Nicky and Michael’s story is my favorite so far. It’s very moving; the real life situations depicted in here cover everything from sadness, to disgust to love and happiness. We are treated to a lovely celebration at the end where we visit all previous characters. This story definitely had more depth to it and I look forward to the next story.
If you’ve read the previous two books, you’ve met Michael. He grew up in a very open, forward thinking home with a mom that is a bit of a hippie. He had a long time boyfriend who was not “out” and since that did not end well, he’s taking it slow and he will not get into a relationship with another man who is hiding or unsure of his sexuality ever again. That doesn’t mean he’s not up for a quick cruise through the local park to see what he can shake out of the trees.
Enter Nicky-a sexy firefighter who I think in his head knows that he is gay but struggles with how it would affect his mother, who is very ill. He heads to the park for the same thing, but when he meets and has his encounter with Michael, for Nicky, some kind of spark ignites in him and he needs more.
I loved that Nicky and Michael met cruising with only getting off in mind but that they turn out to be much more to each other. I liked how Michael puts it out there, right at the beginning with Nicky-he won’t be in a relationship with someone who is hiding, yet when circumstances come to light, he finds himself making exceptions to this rule. I felt Michael’s struggle, especially after an encounter with a priest who had come to spend time with Nicky’s mom and immediately made assumptions about Michael and Nicky’s relationship. I was right there with him, in that moment and wanted to strike out at the priest; this man who professes to be a disciple of God. Michael takes the high road, putting Nicky’s worries and feelings ahead of himself.
While Nicky is struggling with indecision about telling his mom or not, he does see Michael and his friends out in public. I liked how the author gives Michael this one thing in the turmoil that Nicky’s mom’s illness brings to their blossoming relationship. It’s so big, what Nicky has to deal with, while at the same time, you know that he really has it bad for Michael and just wants to explore that. There is a constant feeling of, “it’s not enough, but I have to deal with this first”. There is a poignant scene after Nicky’s mom dies and it is at that moment that Nicky find his courage to say what he need’s to say. I pretty much lost it when this grown man, takes his mother’s hand and says, “Hey, Mommy.” [...] “I…I want to tell you something…”.
I’ve enjoyed all of the characters in this series, but I have to say that I think Nicky and Michael’s story is my favorite so far. It’s very moving; the real life situations depicted in here cover everything from sadness, to disgust to love and happiness. We are treated to a lovely celebration at the end where we visit all previous characters. This story definitely had more depth to it and I look forward to the next story.
June 25, 2014
So I’m cruising around amazon the other day and guess what… Daisy Harris has snuck a book out into the wilds and I didn’t know it. I love her books! I couldn’t get this one on my eReader and read quickly enough. She creates real characters dealing with what I can only assume are real life situations. I’m not a man in love with a man, but her guys always seem so real to me.
In Nothing But Smoke she takes her readers back to the world of her Seattle firefighters. We’ve met Michael in the previous two books in her Fire and Rain series. Please note that you can read this one without having read the others. They each work as stand-alones. The commonality in the series are the firefighters living in Seattle. Nicky is the firefighter is this installment. He’s in the closet, but not due to the reasons many would think. He’s just been dealing with other stuff in his life and never found that right moment to come out. What should have been a one time hook up has Nicky thinking it might be time to get out of that closet.
Michael gave up on closeted men. He knows the heartache that they bring into the relationship. He’s experienced it first hand and has vowed never to go down that road again. He soon realizes that Nicky is not the one time hook up that he initially thought. Michael also sees something in him that allows him to make an exception when it comes to Nicky and his not out status. The more time he spends with the sex firefighter the sooner he realizes that it is a chance worth taking.
The real life that Nicky is going through is caring for his terminally ill mother. Just go ahead and grab the box of tissues now. Daisy is going to make you cry. Nicky and his feelings about his mother is going to make you cry. Michael and his trying to be the best partner possible for Nicky and this difficult time is going to make you cry. As much as Nicky and Michael care for each other Michael realizes very quickly that being with Nicky means more than being a lover and a boyfriend. There are many times that Nicky needs a friend. Nicky needs something good and happy in his life. Nicky needs a man like Michael. Michael turned out to be such an amazing man. In the past books I often saw him as whiny and annoyed by those around him. Here he just worked for both the book and for Nicky.
In Nothing But Smoke she takes her readers back to the world of her Seattle firefighters. We’ve met Michael in the previous two books in her Fire and Rain series. Please note that you can read this one without having read the others. They each work as stand-alones. The commonality in the series are the firefighters living in Seattle. Nicky is the firefighter is this installment. He’s in the closet, but not due to the reasons many would think. He’s just been dealing with other stuff in his life and never found that right moment to come out. What should have been a one time hook up has Nicky thinking it might be time to get out of that closet.
Michael gave up on closeted men. He knows the heartache that they bring into the relationship. He’s experienced it first hand and has vowed never to go down that road again. He soon realizes that Nicky is not the one time hook up that he initially thought. Michael also sees something in him that allows him to make an exception when it comes to Nicky and his not out status. The more time he spends with the sex firefighter the sooner he realizes that it is a chance worth taking.
The real life that Nicky is going through is caring for his terminally ill mother. Just go ahead and grab the box of tissues now. Daisy is going to make you cry. Nicky and his feelings about his mother is going to make you cry. Michael and his trying to be the best partner possible for Nicky and this difficult time is going to make you cry. As much as Nicky and Michael care for each other Michael realizes very quickly that being with Nicky means more than being a lover and a boyfriend. There are many times that Nicky needs a friend. Nicky needs something good and happy in his life. Nicky needs a man like Michael. Michael turned out to be such an amazing man. In the past books I often saw him as whiny and annoyed by those around him. Here he just worked for both the book and for Nicky.
December 10, 2014
I really liked this book but, it should come with a warning label. If you don't bawl like baby while reading it, you are like the Grinch and your heart is several sizes too small.
Nicky is a 29 year old firefighter whose mother has terminal cancer. He has always known that he is gay but never had the courage to tell his mother or to have a relationship (he is a virgin). Like most of us in real life Nicky didn't want to disappoint his family. He lost his dad years ago and, his mom is his only family.
Nicky's mom was very religious. I think she clung to faith out of tradition. She had been raised in the Catholic faith. Also, after loosing her husband I think her faith was something to hold onto. It helped her make sense of her world and helped ground her. Her health declined quickly and her memory came and went. Nicky decided telling her would serve no purpose. She couldn't fully engage in a conversation with him. He regretted not having the courage to tell her before she got sick but, he chose to believe that she would have loved and supported him no matter what.
Michael is a grad student who works at a coffee house. Michael is openly gay but a part of him is wounded. For four years he lived with lover so deep in the closet that he would have need runway lights to find the door. Michael was deeply hurt when it ended. I don't so much for the loss of Mark but for loss of himself. Michael buried part of himself in the closet with Mark. I don't think he fully forgave himself for not being true to his beliefs. He didn't like or respect the person he became while with Mark.
Michael steps up to the plate and is there for Nicky. He helps Nicky move his mom to the hospice. This act alone was proof that Michael not only was a good person but really cared about Nicky. Having gone through the loss of my father to terminal illness, someone special being there to offer support both in the practical and emotional sense is priceless.
The saddest part of this book isn't the loss of Nicky's mother. The saddest part is that a son felt he would loose his mother's love and respect if she found out the truth about him. Unfortunately all too often that happens in real life but, I wish we had a world where that was not the case. Love should be unconditional.
Nicky is a 29 year old firefighter whose mother has terminal cancer. He has always known that he is gay but never had the courage to tell his mother or to have a relationship (he is a virgin). Like most of us in real life Nicky didn't want to disappoint his family. He lost his dad years ago and, his mom is his only family.
Nicky's mom was very religious. I think she clung to faith out of tradition. She had been raised in the Catholic faith. Also, after loosing her husband I think her faith was something to hold onto. It helped her make sense of her world and helped ground her. Her health declined quickly and her memory came and went. Nicky decided telling her would serve no purpose. She couldn't fully engage in a conversation with him. He regretted not having the courage to tell her before she got sick but, he chose to believe that she would have loved and supported him no matter what.
Michael is a grad student who works at a coffee house. Michael is openly gay but a part of him is wounded. For four years he lived with lover so deep in the closet that he would have need runway lights to find the door. Michael was deeply hurt when it ended. I don't so much for the loss of Mark but for loss of himself. Michael buried part of himself in the closet with Mark. I don't think he fully forgave himself for not being true to his beliefs. He didn't like or respect the person he became while with Mark.
Michael steps up to the plate and is there for Nicky. He helps Nicky move his mom to the hospice. This act alone was proof that Michael not only was a good person but really cared about Nicky. Having gone through the loss of my father to terminal illness, someone special being there to offer support both in the practical and emotional sense is priceless.
The saddest part of this book isn't the loss of Nicky's mother. The saddest part is that a son felt he would loose his mother's love and respect if she found out the truth about him. Unfortunately all too often that happens in real life but, I wish we had a world where that was not the case. Love should be unconditional.
March 16, 2016
3.6 Stars
Again, sweet and sexy. I wish there were more to the whole firefighter angle than meeting the co-workers because, other than being the impetus to bring home a complete stranger for the first book (and somewhat helping to "rescue" a dog & his owner stuck in a swift-flowing river in the second book)...it seems more like a way to yank in the peeps who might have a First Responder fetish.
I'll admit, I so very very very much do enjoy that kink...but if you're not going to give us detailed descriptions of the drool-worthy uniforms or some sexy, rescue scenario options (carrying a child & its mother from a burning building, snatching a precious pet from a tree for the old cat-lady, performing CPR on a fit swimmer in a speedo by the side of a pool) then it feels wasted & gratuitous and it's kinda irritating to just know these guys are Fire Fighters and EMTs. I wanna see it. (Show, don't tell.)
Anyway, I knew I'd like Michael's book but it felt like too much all at once. I expected him to be the pushy asshole he was, and appreciated the effort he made trying not to be that way with Nicky...but he was still just a little overbearing. I get why he wanted Nicky to come out, to admit to his friends and family that Michael was his boyfriend - that past hurt fundamentally changed him and influenced his choices for years afterwards - and I think his heart was in the right place urging Nicky to tell his mom. But I really loved that it didn't happen that way. Feels to me like it would have been a confession to soothe his own soul but would likely upset someone so fragile at the end of life. And that seems just selfish. Nicky made the right decision IMHO, even if it means his mom never really got to know something so important to his identity.
If the missing months between checking her into the hospice and her death would have been explored more, detailed some, dug into what he was Nicky was trying to work through and Michael's acceptance of that timeline, maybe it wouldn't have felt so rushed. I guess I wish it were longer. (Heh. That what she said).
Again, sweet and sexy. I wish there were more to the whole firefighter angle than meeting the co-workers because, other than being the impetus to bring home a complete stranger for the first book (and somewhat helping to "rescue" a dog & his owner stuck in a swift-flowing river in the second book)...it seems more like a way to yank in the peeps who might have a First Responder fetish.
I'll admit, I so very very very much do enjoy that kink...but if you're not going to give us detailed descriptions of the drool-worthy uniforms or some sexy, rescue scenario options (carrying a child & its mother from a burning building, snatching a precious pet from a tree for the old cat-lady, performing CPR on a fit swimmer in a speedo by the side of a pool) then it feels wasted & gratuitous and it's kinda irritating to just know these guys are Fire Fighters and EMTs. I wanna see it. (Show, don't tell.)
Anyway, I knew I'd like Michael's book but it felt like too much all at once. I expected him to be the pushy asshole he was, and appreciated the effort he made trying not to be that way with Nicky...but he was still just a little overbearing. I get why he wanted Nicky to come out, to admit to his friends and family that Michael was his boyfriend - that past hurt fundamentally changed him and influenced his choices for years afterwards - and I think his heart was in the right place urging Nicky to tell his mom. But I really loved that it didn't happen that way. Feels to me like it would have been a confession to soothe his own soul but would likely upset someone so fragile at the end of life. And that seems just selfish. Nicky made the right decision IMHO, even if it means his mom never really got to know something so important to his identity.
If the missing months between checking her into the hospice and her death would have been explored more, detailed some, dug into what he was Nicky was trying to work through and Michael's acceptance of that timeline, maybe it wouldn't have felt so rushed. I guess I wish it were longer. (Heh. That what she said).
March 18, 2015
This book was difficult for me. As a whole it had an okay storyline, but there were major issues with the characters interaction with each other and the few times they hung out with the couples from the first two books. The powerful emotions I felt deeply. The loss was devastating and the supporting characters rallying together was heartwarming.
The feel I got from Michael in the previous books was that he was jaded and insecure. He hid those parts of himself from his closest friends. He used his superior attitude to keep himself apart from everyone. I didn't like him at all in the first book. He came across as a jealous ass. I liked him a little better in the second book. He seemed to use his smart ass attitude to push Henri in the right direction. He came across as a concerned friend giving great advice in shitty way. Kind of like a "his heart was in the right place, but his delivery needed serious work" sort of way. So in his own book I was looking for a better understanding of what and who Michael was really, behind all the subterfuge. I don't feel like I got that. He was still self absorbed, controlling, and selfish. A few times he almost got it right, but (for me) in the end it was still all about him. He never fully let go of the past.
As for Nicky.....I loved everything about his character except his name. Going by a young child's name with his dying mother, I get with no problem. Going by it with everyone else, not so much. My heart hurt for him. Having to hide who he was because he was afraid to speed up his mothers already short time left, was heartbreaking. Falling in love with a guy that forced him at every turn to come out to the world, even though he was already going through so much pain, was difficult to read. Having no support other than the couple of times Michael was able to bring his head out of his own ass, brought me to tears. I did enjoy Michael taking the top position in their sexual relationship. It seemed to fit well with the situation. Nicky needed a time when he didn't have to think. Michael gave him that at least.
The feel I got from Michael in the previous books was that he was jaded and insecure. He hid those parts of himself from his closest friends. He used his superior attitude to keep himself apart from everyone. I didn't like him at all in the first book. He came across as a jealous ass. I liked him a little better in the second book. He seemed to use his smart ass attitude to push Henri in the right direction. He came across as a concerned friend giving great advice in shitty way. Kind of like a "his heart was in the right place, but his delivery needed serious work" sort of way. So in his own book I was looking for a better understanding of what and who Michael was really, behind all the subterfuge. I don't feel like I got that. He was still self absorbed, controlling, and selfish. A few times he almost got it right, but (for me) in the end it was still all about him. He never fully let go of the past.
As for Nicky.....I loved everything about his character except his name. Going by a young child's name with his dying mother, I get with no problem. Going by it with everyone else, not so much. My heart hurt for him. Having to hide who he was because he was afraid to speed up his mothers already short time left, was heartbreaking. Falling in love with a guy that forced him at every turn to come out to the world, even though he was already going through so much pain, was difficult to read. Having no support other than the couple of times Michael was able to bring his head out of his own ass, brought me to tears. I did enjoy Michael taking the top position in their sexual relationship. It seemed to fit well with the situation. Nicky needed a time when he didn't have to think. Michael gave him that at least.
September 25, 2016
Michael Larson has decided to steer clear of closeted men. He spent enough time in a relationship with one, and he's not doing that again. When he spots a hot guy in a leather jacket while he's on a run in Volunteer Park, Michael cruises him and gets him to follow. Michael senses the man's unease--a clue that maybe he's not out--but it's just a random hookup, so what does it matter?
Nicky O'Brian isn't gay. Right? He can't be. He's a firefighter from an Irish Catholic family who is focused on taking care of his terminally ill mother. But the videos he watches at night and his occasional forays into the park to cruise for guys say otherwise. And when he hooks up with an incredibly hot strawberry-blond guy who keeps showing up again and again, he can't help wondering if maybe he wants more than just the occasional romp in the woods.
As Michael and Nicky spend more time together, both will need to confront their issues. Can Michael be with a guy who isn't open about who he is? And can Nicky get past his hangups and accept himself?
--
I find myself continuing to enjoy this firefighter series set in Seattle by Daisy Harris. And one of the things I always love about her novels set in the city is that it almost becomes a character in the story itself. The descriptions of the places, the people, the streets--they're all very real and authentic. And it helps the story come to life so much more easily in my head.
The story of these two is a bit different than the previous two books. While the dynamic puts them at odds, it didn't have quite the same intensity that I was used to seeing. Part of this may because there are a few skips in time where we miss some of the relationship development that struck me as an odd choice. That said, it's still fun and interesting to watch their journey from where they start to where they finish.
Nicky O'Brian isn't gay. Right? He can't be. He's a firefighter from an Irish Catholic family who is focused on taking care of his terminally ill mother. But the videos he watches at night and his occasional forays into the park to cruise for guys say otherwise. And when he hooks up with an incredibly hot strawberry-blond guy who keeps showing up again and again, he can't help wondering if maybe he wants more than just the occasional romp in the woods.
As Michael and Nicky spend more time together, both will need to confront their issues. Can Michael be with a guy who isn't open about who he is? And can Nicky get past his hangups and accept himself?
--
I find myself continuing to enjoy this firefighter series set in Seattle by Daisy Harris. And one of the things I always love about her novels set in the city is that it almost becomes a character in the story itself. The descriptions of the places, the people, the streets--they're all very real and authentic. And it helps the story come to life so much more easily in my head.
The story of these two is a bit different than the previous two books. While the dynamic puts them at odds, it didn't have quite the same intensity that I was used to seeing. Part of this may because there are a few skips in time where we miss some of the relationship development that struck me as an odd choice. That said, it's still fun and interesting to watch their journey from where they start to where they finish.
June 9, 2014
3.75 stars
“Nothing but Smoke” by Daisy Harris is Book 3 of the ‘Fire and Rain’ m/m erotic romance series that centers around a group of firefighters who are facing personal challenges. Nicky O’Brian is barely coping with the heartache of his mother’s serious illness and his occasional forays into brief intimate encounters with random strangers are less than fulfilling. Michael Larson is unwilling to get into another bad relationship and getting involved with the closeted Nicky seems to be the epitome of a undesirable goal but somehow they can’t manage to fight the attraction they have to one another. Each man has to decide what he is willing to accept and whether to fight for what they have found with each other or to bow to the expectations of others.
This poignant story contrasts the plight of two different men who have vastly different interactions with their respective mothers and who are at different stages of dealing with their sexuality. The intense pressure on Nicky eventually has to find an outlet and it is heartwrenching to accompany him on his journey as he searches for self-acceptance. There are nice cameos of other characters introduced in this series and intriguing glimpses of quirky characters such as Michael’s mom but I had difficulty establishing a connection to either of the main characters and their relationship progressed in a very erratic fashion to me. Sadly, I think this probably is an accurate representation of the progression of a relationship that is circumscribed by so many potentially negative factors but this story just didn’t resonate with me as much as the prior two did.
© Night Owl Reviews
I received a copy of this title in return for an honest review.
“Nothing but Smoke” by Daisy Harris is Book 3 of the ‘Fire and Rain’ m/m erotic romance series that centers around a group of firefighters who are facing personal challenges. Nicky O’Brian is barely coping with the heartache of his mother’s serious illness and his occasional forays into brief intimate encounters with random strangers are less than fulfilling. Michael Larson is unwilling to get into another bad relationship and getting involved with the closeted Nicky seems to be the epitome of a undesirable goal but somehow they can’t manage to fight the attraction they have to one another. Each man has to decide what he is willing to accept and whether to fight for what they have found with each other or to bow to the expectations of others.
This poignant story contrasts the plight of two different men who have vastly different interactions with their respective mothers and who are at different stages of dealing with their sexuality. The intense pressure on Nicky eventually has to find an outlet and it is heartwrenching to accompany him on his journey as he searches for self-acceptance. There are nice cameos of other characters introduced in this series and intriguing glimpses of quirky characters such as Michael’s mom but I had difficulty establishing a connection to either of the main characters and their relationship progressed in a very erratic fashion to me. Sadly, I think this probably is an accurate representation of the progression of a relationship that is circumscribed by so many potentially negative factors but this story just didn’t resonate with me as much as the prior two did.
© Night Owl Reviews
I received a copy of this title in return for an honest review.
June 27, 2014
The Manic Monday REVIEW:
First off… beautiful, beautiful cover.
The story opens in Volunteer Park in Seattle. Two guys are looking for a quick hook-up. Little does either know how life-altering a simple blowjob will become.
Michael is out and proud. He’s been hurt before by a lover hiding in the closet. No way is he going back to hiding, sneaking… being a dirty secret. Once was more than enough, thanks all the same. While looking for a hook-up, he spots Leather Dude—a thirtyish, ripped, motorcycle-riding sex god—who obviously is so far in the closet Michael would need a wrench to get him out. But Leather Dude is agreeable, so Michael blows him. And in the process, blows the top off the guy’s safe world. The attraction—and a need Michael senses, but doesn’t understand—spirals between them.
Then it happens—they meet again at the Seattle Firefighters Annual Potluck. Leather Dude, Nicky, is a firefighter whose very religious mom is dying.
This is a story about a man facing the death of his beloved mom while also trying to come to terms with his own wants and needs. It’s a sad, nervous, funny, heartbreaking tale. I ached for Nicky. Watching a parent die in stages is a soul-sucking experience. One I know about first hand. So, there were times I had to step away from this. It just brought too many of my own memories. But on the other hand, the author did an excellent, realistic job showing the pain Nicky goes through.
I cried over this book. I don’t often do that. It was well written and kept me interested. I did find a few awkward phrases throughout the book, but that’s really my only complaint. Just beware, it’s a tear jerker.
First off… beautiful, beautiful cover.
The story opens in Volunteer Park in Seattle. Two guys are looking for a quick hook-up. Little does either know how life-altering a simple blowjob will become.
Michael is out and proud. He’s been hurt before by a lover hiding in the closet. No way is he going back to hiding, sneaking… being a dirty secret. Once was more than enough, thanks all the same. While looking for a hook-up, he spots Leather Dude—a thirtyish, ripped, motorcycle-riding sex god—who obviously is so far in the closet Michael would need a wrench to get him out. But Leather Dude is agreeable, so Michael blows him. And in the process, blows the top off the guy’s safe world. The attraction—and a need Michael senses, but doesn’t understand—spirals between them.
Then it happens—they meet again at the Seattle Firefighters Annual Potluck. Leather Dude, Nicky, is a firefighter whose very religious mom is dying.
This is a story about a man facing the death of his beloved mom while also trying to come to terms with his own wants and needs. It’s a sad, nervous, funny, heartbreaking tale. I ached for Nicky. Watching a parent die in stages is a soul-sucking experience. One I know about first hand. So, there were times I had to step away from this. It just brought too many of my own memories. But on the other hand, the author did an excellent, realistic job showing the pain Nicky goes through.
I cried over this book. I don’t often do that. It was well written and kept me interested. I did find a few awkward phrases throughout the book, but that’s really my only complaint. Just beware, it’s a tear jerker.
Read
June 15, 2014A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Nothing But Smoke is the third book in Daisy Harris’ great Fire and Rain series. The stories so far each feature one firefighter character (though we don’t see any on-the-job stuff here) and a group of friends who appear across the series. In this case, we have met Michael in both the first two books as he works in the coffee shop with Jesse and Henri. Michael has always been a prickly, uptight sort of guy, the one the others love to tease a little. Here we still see his need for order and structure, and his adherence to living healthy and being environmentally friendly. But he is also a little softer in this story. While he starts off just looking for some quickie sex in the park, he can’t help but have his caring side come out when he is with Nicky. As much as Michael wants to hold himself back to protect his heart, he can’t help but want to step in and nurture as Nicky deals with such a tough time with his mother. It is nice to see this other side of Michael and get to know him as more than the prickly friend.
Read Jay's review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Nothing But Smoke is the third book in Daisy Harris’ great Fire and Rain series. The stories so far each feature one firefighter character (though we don’t see any on-the-job stuff here) and a group of friends who appear across the series. In this case, we have met Michael in both the first two books as he works in the coffee shop with Jesse and Henri. Michael has always been a prickly, uptight sort of guy, the one the others love to tease a little. Here we still see his need for order and structure, and his adherence to living healthy and being environmentally friendly. But he is also a little softer in this story. While he starts off just looking for some quickie sex in the park, he can’t help but have his caring side come out when he is with Nicky. As much as Michael wants to hold himself back to protect his heart, he can’t help but want to step in and nurture as Nicky deals with such a tough time with his mother. It is nice to see this other side of Michael and get to know him as more than the prickly friend.
Read Jay's review in its entirety here.
March 9, 2016
** Note: This review is for the first four books in the series (spoiler-free)! **
Nothing But Smoke: 3 of 5 stars
Series Rating: 3 of 5 stars
This Seattle-based series is full of quick, steamy contemporary M/M romance novellas, with a pretty large focus on coming out of the closet. Each installment features its own main couple, with their own romance and their own personal struggles.
My top two pros: Several really lovable characters, and fully-depicted Seattle settings - always a plus for me :) My top two cons: The drama started to feel repetitive, with the later books rehashing the same issues of earlier stories (this was probably compounded by my binge-reading), and I had a hard time connecting with the chemistry in the later stories.
Overall, I really enjoyed the first two books, but the series lost some of it's spark in the later ones. Despite that, I'd be happy to read more from Harris going forward.
Recommendation: Read this if you are a fan of fast-paced, steamy M/M romance with a Northwest Urban setting.
Nothing But Smoke: 3 of 5 stars
Series Rating: 3 of 5 stars
This Seattle-based series is full of quick, steamy contemporary M/M romance novellas, with a pretty large focus on coming out of the closet. Each installment features its own main couple, with their own romance and their own personal struggles.
My top two pros: Several really lovable characters, and fully-depicted Seattle settings - always a plus for me :) My top two cons: The drama started to feel repetitive, with the later books rehashing the same issues of earlier stories (this was probably compounded by my binge-reading), and I had a hard time connecting with the chemistry in the later stories.
Overall, I really enjoyed the first two books, but the series lost some of it's spark in the later ones. Despite that, I'd be happy to read more from Harris going forward.
Recommendation: Read this if you are a fan of fast-paced, steamy M/M romance with a Northwest Urban setting.
June 14, 2014
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
For my full review, visit http://wp.me/p220KL-2xi
From my review: "If you are searching for a book about firefighters in love, I am not sure this is the story for you. The firefighter aspect is missing here other than the occasional mention of Nicky's profession and the other members of his station house in a couple of scenes. They might be more prevalent in the stories leading up to this one. I just don't know. But Nothing But Smoke is such a strong, emotional story that I will certainly search out the others in the series as well as other books by Daisy Harris. There are so many outstanding elements here, so many great characters that I recommend this story to you. Just be prepared for a story as much about loss as it is about love. And keep those tissues handy…"
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