This new city was supposed to keep me alive, not burn me to the ground.
You know that moment when you realize you’re supremely screwed? That’s me when I realize I’m trapped in my building and see smoke. In the last twenty-four hours I’ve been cheated on, quit my job, and insulted a sexy stranger — now I’m staring death in the face and even my family doesn’t know where I am.
At this point, I really don’t care who busts me out, so long as I live to tell the tale. But when a brick wall of a man comes to my rescue, he also brings electric blue eyes, a gorgeous smile, and a burning need to fix problems. It’s Nate Miller is the quintessential hot firefighter.
When Nate offers a solution to my jobless and homeless dilemmas, I know I’d be a fool not to accept. But he doesn’t know I’ve been running from a complicated past that is now hot on my heels…
As the heat ramps up between us, I know I could be putting more than our hearts in danger.
But Nate doesn’t want to be kept safe. I’m a risk he’s willing to take.
Living with Fire is book one of an interconnected standalone series, With Fire, featuring first person, dual POV.
Tamara lives with her cocker spaniel, River, in the beautiful city of Calgary, Alberta. When she’s not busy writing the stories of sexy firemen, she can be found with River at the river, writing in her journal, biking, doing yoga, or collecting butterflies and unicorns. She’s a poptart, through and through (think classic Britney, Christina, and NSYNC), a Swiftie, and enjoys country, rock, and a little piano instrumental when she’s trying to focus. Give her a hot man to look at, a book boyfriend to swoon over, and friends to laugh with and she’s set.
This is an ARC provived by the author and I wanna thank her for it
OMG, words can't express how much I loved this book, it was so amazing. Savanna had been thought a lot and she was so strong for enduring what she did and starting a new life all alone. She did what needed to be done even if it broke her heart. All she ever did was protect the people she loved, I respect that. Nate was a sweetheart. He would do anything for her. That man was so in love, it was the sweetest thing. I just love how he loved her. They were drawn to each other from the moment they met. They couldn't fight what they felt so they stopped trying to. They were both there for the other. No matter what it was, they had each other support and that's how it's supposed to be in a relationship. They were both all in and that's all it really takes. Love and faith. I loved the secondary characters too and I can't wait to read their stories
It had been a while since I had read a firefighter romance and this delivered perfectly
I loved Nate. He was so sweet, humble and respectful. Green flag! Sav has my heart. I feel so bad for the things she went through
Ok, so the thing I most loved about the book is Liam. He is the side character, the MMC's best friend who is also a firefighter. I have a huge crush on him. Don't ask me to explain why but I just love him.
I especially loved the scene in which Liam chases after them. I've reread those chapters so many times. The intensity and the thrill of those chapters was so good. Straight out of a movie type.
Although I'm excited for Hailey and Luke's book, I really want Liam's book. And I want him to end up with Jordan (his best friend's sister).
Tropes: 🚒 Firefighter romance 🚒 Forced proximity 🚒 MMC literally has a golden heart 🚒 Found family 🚒 Slow burn 🚒 Workplace romance
📝 Savanna Walsh has spent the last 6 months in Santa Rosé, California-trying to escape her abusive ex. Things can't look much worse, until she gets locked in her apartment's garbage room with a fire breaking out. Thankfully Nate Miller, a firefighter, breaks down the door and saves her. But, he's not just any firefighter. He's the man she met in the elevator a few days ago. Nate is always willing to give everyone a hand. So when he see's that Savanna is now homeless, he jumps at the offer to have her stay in his spare bedroom.
What I 🤍: 🔥 Firefighter Romance 🛗 Elevator Meet Cute 🍻 Workplace Romance 🛌 Roommates/Close Proximity 🍞 Cinnamon Roll MCC 💞 Found Family 💪 "I Got This" Attitude ❤️🩹 Abuse Survivor 👀 She Checks Him Out 👃 He Loves How She Smells 🥾 Hiking Dates-Redwoods 😥 Suspenseful Romance
This book hit me a little deeper than I expected. It was not a light-fluffy read. In fact, I will forever remember it, because of the character depth and trauma our FMC overcame in her life. Right away I was hooked. You can't help but fall in love with both Savanna and Nate. While I didn't always agree with Savanna's choices, I could see where she was coming from-a place of fear and a need to protect those she loves. I loved her confidence, and ability to befriend everyone. Nate is perfection. Literally the man of every girl's dreams. He's hardworking, committed to his friends and family, and a need to keep his grandfather's legacy alive in the family bar. He'd literally give the shirt off his back to anyone in need, which he does for Savanna. He also has a bit of a dirty mind-but only for his girl. 🥵 We need more Nate's in this world.
Prince's Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Passion: 🔥🔥 (One Open Door) 📍Santa Rosé, California Read 📅: August-Fall Read If ➡️: You love romances with complex characters and past trauma. CW ⚠️: Abuse (Not Between MCs), kidnapping, anxiety, fire, violence
If you're looking for an emotional, suspenseful romance. This is for you! Especially if you loved CoHo's "It Ends with Us." When I was reading, I didn't expect there to be as much detail about the abuse as there was-so be careful if this is upsetting to you. I think many will love this book, but I also think it could be hard for others. (Honestly, it was for me.) But what's important is that stories like this are written. At times, I felt the plot was a little unbelievable, like when she was worried about her brothers and dad. Yet, the twists and turns were enjoyable to read. This new series is one that I will continue to read.
Thank you so much to Luna Literary for an advanced digital copy of this book. Living with Fire is out now! Also, I can't wait for Book 2!
Living With Fire is a refreshing read including the cutest MMC! A wonderful meet-cute sets the stage for a whimaical romance that sparks off like a match! Rene addresses and integrates some difficult and complex issues within the book with care and tenderness that is mostly depicted through the relationships and interactions between the FMC, MMC and side characters. The plot and pacing are great and on more than one occasion I found myself relating to Savannah. The romance is well executed, expected and adds depth to the relationship between the MCs as well as emotionally strengthening each character individually. This was both my first firefighter and Tamara Rene read and it probably won't be my last.
This book was an emotional rollercoaster from start to finish🎢 Savanna has been through so much, and her strength blew me away. And Nate? I love him to death. It pains me how he always puts everyone else first, never asking for help, but I adored how Sav was able to break through his armor. The way Nate and his friends were all so protective of her? My heart😫😫
Also, Sav's dynamic with her brothers was everything! The way they love her, tease her, and have her back no matter what—l ate it upp!!! And Sav's family overall🫶🏼
Oh and Vincent? He deserved SO much worse.
Also can we please talk about their meet-cute in an elevator?! And the way Nate gets all nervous asking her out?? Adorable🥰 Every side character was chef's kiss😚🤌🏼, and I'm already counting down the days until the next book in the series.
If you love emotional, heartfelt romances with protective heroes, strong heroines, and amazing sibling dynamics, this one's for you🤭❤️
🔥Firefighter romance 🔥Elevator Meet cute 🔥Cinnamon Roll MMC 🔥Badass FMC 🔥Workplace Romance 🔥Slow Burn 🔥Found Family
I stayed up very late reading this and I'm gonna tell you I cried about 5 or 6 times, this hit so close to home and made my heart happy for Sav to get her happy ending but the road she had to go down to get to happiness wasn't easy. Thank you, Tamara, for writing this book, for giving those with a Vincent a voice. One of my favorites of the year and it just so happens that I'm a sucker for firefighters!! 💙💜🫶🏻🫠 oh and I will accept no criticism for this book because it's absolute perfection!
Savanna Walsh, new to the area and just trying to live a quiet life so her ex doesn't find her until she gets locked inside her apartment building. Who busts down the door....
Nate Miller, the Cinnamon Roll firefighter who helps anyone and everyone but won't accept help for his late uncles bar, he's scrambling to figure out how to save it and make it even better. Will he accept help from his friends and family?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I have found a new author to read! A slow burn, firefighter romance. Nate saved Savannah, literally, but as the story unfolds he mends her heart as well. Savannah is strong, determined, and starting over in a new state. Nate is a bar owner and firefighter, he has a lot on his plate as well. Can Savannah help him save his bar?
A quick read that held my attention, great characters and side characters I hope we get to know better!
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review
My Review: Tamara Rene’s debut novel was a refreshing and thrilling read—especially as my first firefighter romance! 🚒
Living with Fire introduces us to Nate Miller, a Fire Lieutenant at the Santa Rose Fire Department, and wow, what a character he is. Nate is stubborn when it comes to accepting help from others. Beneath the tough exterior, he’s a true gentleman—sweet, patient, and so easy to adore. 🥰
Savanna stole my heart. She’s been through so much in her past, yet her resilience and strength shine through on every page. 🥹
Sav is such an inspirational character, someone you truly root for. Her struggles and her instinct to protect those she loves, even if it means running away, are both heartbreaking and relatable. 🫂
The tension between Nate and Savanna? Oh, it’s palpable. I felt like I was intruding on their moments together—it was that intense. Their relationship is beautifully written, especially with how Nate helps her find her wings again and allows her to make her own choices. 😍🫠🔥
One of my favorite parts of the book is the found family aspect. From the moment we meet Nate’s hilarious group of friends, I was hooked! Their dynamic was so fun to read, especially with how much they love to tease Nate at every chance. I was absolutely EATING IT UP! 😂🤩 I also fell hard, Brody, and I’m hoping we can dive into his story in future books! 🤞🏻
⚠️ Please check the content warnings before reading, as this book deals with heavy themes like domestic violence (DV) and PTSD.
Oh, and that sneak peek at the end?! I’m already counting down the days for the next book. Living with Fire is a must-read if you’re looking for a heartfelt, emotional, and gripping romance. 🔥
TROPES: 🔥Slow Burn 🔥Firefighter 🔥Cinnamon Roll Hero 🔥Badass FMC 🔥Workplace Romance 🔥Close Proximity 🔥Found Family 🔥Men in Uniforn
Living with Fire by Tamara Rene surprised me in the best possible way. Lately, it’s been really hard for a book to impress me – I read a lot, and most stories feel repetitive, cringey, or build the romance between characters in such an unrealistic and awkward way that I usually end up DNF-ing them. But this one grabbed my attention from the very beginning and held it until the end.
I was a bit skeptical at first since this is a new author with only a few published books, but I’m so glad I gave it a chance. The story pulled me in immediately, and I truly enjoyed it. The romance between the characters was built in such a natural and engaging way – I found myself invested in both of them. While the plot had some familiar elements I’ve seen in other romance books, the sequence of events and overall pacing felt realistic and compelling.
Normally, I’m not a huge fan of “cinnamon roll” heroes, but the male lead in this story completely won me over. I loved how the characters were written, especially how we got to see their thoughts about each other. This might be the first time I didn���t mind the instalove trope – usually, it feels forced and unrealistic to me, but here, the way their internal monologues were written made the connection believable and heartfelt.
I also adored how protective the hero was without being overbearing. He was willing to throw himself into danger for the people he loved, yet he never pressured the heroine, even with the strong attraction between them. That balance is what made their love story feel so real and gave me butterflies while reading.
I’m giving it 4 stars instead of 5 because I reserve 5 stars for the absolute perfect reads, but this one came very close. It was a genuinely enjoyable, well-written romance that left me smiling and excited to explore more from this author. I’m so happy I discovered a new writer I like, and I can’t wait to see more books from Tamara Rene in the future!
“Perfection is what we make it, and there’s no more perfect moment than now.”
Living with Fire by Tamara Rene follows Savanna as she flees her life in Denver, hoping for a fresh start in Santa Rosé, California. But just as she starts to rebuild, everything falls apart—she’s cheated on, jobless, and trapped in a burning building. Enter Nate, a firefighter and bar owner, who not only saves her but offers her a lifeline when she needs it most. As he helps her get back on her feet, their undeniable chemistry ignites, and we get to watch them fall in love.
I really enjoyed this book. There’s something so special about two characters who just genuinely like each other, and Tamara writes them with such depth and intensity that their connection practically burns off the page—pun intended :P Her characters are vivid, unique, and full of life, making it impossible not to root for them.
While the story does tackle some heavy topics, Tamara approaches them with care and nuance, making for an emotionally rich and impactful read. My only small critique would be the pacing. The bulk of the story takes place over a single week, with the rest unfolding over about a month (please correct me if i’m wrong). The fast progression of their relationship felt a bit like insta-love, which isn’t always my favorite. But given the intensity of the plot and the characters’ connection, it actually worked in a way that didn’t take away from my enjoyment.
I’m beyond excited to continue this series! The side characters were just as compelling, and I can’t wait to dive into their stories and learn more about them and who they are on a more personal level!
This story follows Savanna who is fleeing from her past, leaving Colorado and relocating to the beautiful Santa Rosé- California, and Nate a part time bar co-owner and Fire lieutenant.
Savanna's life is burning Infront of her eyes whilst trying to heal from her last relationship and Nate is in over his head with he bar him and his sister inherited from their Uncle Sam six months ago, that is until their worlds collide.
Nate makes Savanna an offer she would be a fool to refuse but her choices are slim, either let his complete stranger help her or run back to Colorado with the possibility of putting people in danger.
Protecting the people she cares about is her top priority, but the more time Savanna spends around Nate the harder that becomes, she can feel her past catching up to her and now there are more people that could be caught in the crossfire.
I truly loved reading Living With Fire, I was so caught up in the characters that I felt like I truly knew them. Each character had so much depth that I could read whole book about any of them☺️
The plot was incredible, it unfolded in time and nothing felt rushed, the slow burn was captivating and also didn't feel like it was in your face constantly. I love an in your face smutty book but I was so glad when reading this that there was an incredible amount of substance in the story to accompany the spice.
I couldn't get enough of the chemistry between all of the characters, the flow of their relationships was perfect and they truly felt like a family.
I'd 100% reccomended this to anyone who loves romance or just sexy firefighters 🚒🔥
Living With Fire ARC review Spice level: 3 🌶️🌶️🌶️ Total rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
CW: abusive relationship, stalking, violence,mental health struggles
Reading Living With Fire was a nice read to close out my summer. Savannah is such a sweet main character with a troubled past. Little did she know running away from that would lead her into the arms of a Hot California Firefighter named Nate. Nate has never really been the daring type, but that’s all about to change…
Watching their romance blossom throughout the book was magical. Nate is a very protective MMC with two lovable best friends who would do anything to make sure Nate’s happy. Even if it means throwing themselves in harms way to protect his girl.
If you’re a fan of things like Station 19, Hallmark Movies, and coastal romances… this is the book for you!!
Much love to Luna Literary Management and Tamara Rene for the ARC!!! Can’t wait for book two!
Okay, so I'm completely convinced this book is made of drugs. Once I started it, I knew I would not be putting it down until I finished it.
This is a gorgeously told story of Savanna and Nate. Savanna is running from a bad situation and ends up on the West Coast in a new town where she knows no one and can start fresh.
But being alone isn't always the best option. She ends up having to be rescued after a serious fire breaks out in her apartment building. Luckily, the fireman is ridiculously hot. Nate is someone who gives everything he has to the people around him and doesn't ask for help. Savanna will help him realize not only is it okay to ask for help, but sometimes we need it even when we don't ask.
Smoking hot and emotional - what a beautiful read!
Not only is the romance swoon-worthy, but the characters are so real and wonderfully written. My heart broke for Savanna and all the trauma she's been through - and is still running from. When she meets Nate, a firefighter and the perfect blend of confident, sexy, yet also so sensitive and understanding, it's immediate heat between the two of them. That elevator scene had me hooked! Nate's awareness of Savanna's emotions and fears made me fall for him, and I love love love the way their story unfolds. I also enjoyed getting to know the side characters and can't wait for their books! The friendship and camaraderie between them all is so natural. GIVE ME BOOK TWO NOW!
Excellent debut. The storytelling, the layering of backstory, the consistent character quirks and development were masterfully done. I loved getting to know Nate and Savanna, but it was the family and found family — that incredibly strong sense of community — that made me want to keep curling up with this spicy and sweet sweet romance. The cast of characters I got to meet make me extra excited to keep reading the WITH FIRE series. Brava, Tamara Rene! Keep going, sister!
this was my first firefighter romance and WOW! i need more! i absolutely loved this book and adored both Savannah and Nate. the comfort and love Nate brought into Savannah’s life is like a big warm hug. Nate’s family, including his best friends, are just the best and are hilarious when you least expect it. Brody is and will forever be my favorite!
I love a firefighter romance, and this book did not disappoint. I was drawn into the story from the very beginning and hooked to the very end. The connection between the main characters is so good 🥰
The writing style is beautiful and I was honestly surprised that this is a debut novel. I’m so glad this is a series and I can’t wait to see what’s next!
What a rollercoaster of a book! I felt like the beginning dragged a bit but once it took off, man it took off! There aren’t many romances that also have a thriller aspect and I loved it. I couldn’t stop reading the last quarter of the book. So good! I also loved the entire found family aspect. Liam and Brody are perfect side characters who complement Nate perfectly.
I’m glad I started this series. Solid debut from this author. I’m also excited for other hopeful book couples.
Nate & Savanna 💕 Firefighter x girl on the run (domestic violence) He’s a cinnamon role Little bit of down on her luck situation Forced proximity Group of firefighters Slow burn
I was so excited to read this book and lucky enough to get an early Kindle copy. LOVED it! Such an easy slow burn read. Was a great read while sitting on the beach. I’d say mild 🌶️ for this book. Will definitely be getting a physical copy to go into my book collection as well, when it’s released (September 🤞🏻). Definitely recommend giving it a try by this newly published author.
READ READ READ this book!! I loved the chemistry between every character in this book. It had me smiling, giggling, heart pounding and teary eyed all within the 24 hours it took me to finish it. SUCH a good story. 10/10
I’m SOO excited to say I was one of the lucky ARC readers for this book! 🥰.
I loved every second of it!!
Savanna has been dealt a bad hand recently in her life yet she still tries to think about the positive. Her “I’ve got this” attitude is amazing and her strength speaks volumes! 🤩
As a firefighter, Nate has seen some incredible and terrifying things but he always goes out of his way for those he cares about. 🫶🏻
When these two meet? 💥 😍 their chemistry is off the charts, they had such compassion and kindness towards each other with no judgements, and we also have a great group of friends who become found family!!
Also great intro for a series!! Great work can’t wait for the next one!
Hello, new favorite series! LIVING WITH FIRE was unputdownable (seriously, I almost missed my train stop). Rene's writing is whip-smart, funny, and so swoony. The first-person dual POV was such a treat, and I loved learning about characters, settings, and circumstances from both Savanna's and Nate's perspectives. LIVING WITH FIRE is a story with real heart, and I found myself rooting for the characters' happiness from the very first page. Savanna is an incredible protagonist who goes on a true journey, and her strength and determination is so admirable. Nate is just as incredible, and I loved witnessing him come to terms with his own hangups, too. There are a few content warnings listed at the beginning of the book, which were much appreciated. Rene handles difficult topics and situations with genuine care. The writing is honestly beautiful. And the supporting characters? All stars in my book! Seriously, I'm not sure I can pick a favorite. (Okay. Okay. It's Liam.) Tamara Rene's LIVING WITH FIRE was an absolute joy to read, and I cannot wait to see where this series of interconnected standalones goes next.
This book had me laughing, crying, and completely captivated from start to finish. The storytelling is so immersive that I never wanted to put it down. Every emotion hit at just the right moment, making for an unforgettable reading experience. Highly recommend!
Can't believe this is a debut 😍 Nate and Savannah had me from page one and their love story was soo beautiful. I love a good heroine on the run and her finally finding the man she deserves 🥹 Nate's so respectful with her needs and I loved how open they were both with Sav's trauma. The cast is a perfect found family and I'm definitely going to be reading the next book!
I received an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest rewiew.
The MMC, Nate, is a firefighter in a small town in California. Savanna is the FMC, and in the first chapter, she quits her job as a financial advisor and first meets Nate in the elevator as she’s leaving. The banter in the elevator between these two is what drew me in. I love good banter, and this book definitely has it.
There is a little something for everyone in this book. It has romance, spice, and suspense. There was one suspenseful part where I couldn’t take my eyes off of the pages. My heart was in my throat as I waited to see what would happen.
There are also amazing friendships and family relationships. Nate has his friends from the fire department, and since Savanna is new in town, they immediately accept her as part of the group. I'm hoping that each of these guys will get their own love interest. Can’t wait to read those books!
I absolutely loved this book. It was such a good read. And the storyline was so well written. Handsome Sexy fireman, saving Savannah in more ways than she could ever imagine!!!!
I don’t even know what more to tell you except that you need to read this book . It is laugh out loud funny, every freaking side character is perfect and you can’t help but NEEDING their story (Liam I am looking at you buddy) and I cried my eyes out for a hot minute because WOW that was so intense and I just love Liam lmao . 10/10 recommend !
9.9.2024 RELEASE DATE !
TROPES: - friends to lovers - slow burn - cinnamon roll firefighter x badass woman - workplace romance - romantic suspense - found family
This book causes such emotions from me. Both as someone who has suffered the hands of abuse, and a former first responder. I adored this book more than words. It was amazing. While painful, it was powerful. I felt her emotions. I know that pain. Savana is a powerhouse that stood on her own for so long, she didn't know how to handle Nate and his genuine good soul.
Sav's pain. Her fears. Those are real in cases of domestic violence. It's raw and painful. But empowering to see her journey. Finally finding the strength to open up to someone, share the pain and realize that the world has good people in it. Not just the awful ones that circle around. Nate is a good soul, offering bits of kindness to a complete stranger in her time of need.
Nate mentioned multiple times that he believed Sav was the perfect woman for him. And he was right. They were undeniably perfect for one another. He helped her open up, learn to trust and gave her the comforts she'd been avoiding since she left Colorado. Helping her realize that the world wasn't just Vincent's. But better wholesome people. She wasn't trapped with him anymore. Nate had freed her. She helped him with his bar problems, and his heart. Showing him that he could open up to the right girl. His heart was meant for her. The big kind firefighter hero. They were each other's missing pieces.
I loved this story. Brody, opening up after his loss. Helping both of them realize how important it is to live in the moment. Liam, playful and charming; unforgivingly loyal and honest. Pushing Sav to realize that she needed to stay. That she was home and there was nothing that could stop them from protecting her.
SPOILERS
Vincent you got what you deserved you b@stard. I was so proud of Sav! I know hearing that crash broke something inside of Nate. Thankfully she was there to help heal it. Liam, you precious boy. I know seeing her like that scared you. Witnessing that crash. You'll never admit it. But that broke you deeply. I can't wait to hear about your story.
I was SO happy with the ending. Sav's family coming back around. Accepting Nate and thanking him for being there for her when she had no one. For loving and protecting her.
This story was beautiful. I can't express how much I enjoyed this. You won't be disappointed.