What do you think?
Rate this book
Fire Company 143 #1
Smoke Signals
This era for Nina is called the Moment of Yes. She is saying yes to all things that will improve her self-love, including taking a chef-level virtual cooking class...with no cooking skills. Of course, she thought this would go without her nearly burning her kitchen down and coming face to face with a handsome fireman.
Denzel didn't expect that the woman his team was familiar with because of her frequent fire emergencies would be stunning and the one to make him forget his recent woes in love. He wasn't looking, but when the smoke cleared, there she was. Of course, he didn't expect this chance meeting to stem a steamy summer of romance.
When the steam turns to smoke, will their signals stay in sync or will they miss each other's smoke signals?
Denzel didn't expect that the woman his team was familiar with because of her frequent fire emergencies would be stunning and the one to make him forget his recent woes in love. He wasn't looking, but when the smoke cleared, there she was. Of course, he didn't expect this chance meeting to stem a steamy summer of romance.
When the steam turns to smoke, will their signals stay in sync or will they miss each other's smoke signals?
168 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 23, 2024
233 people are currently reading
790 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
September 14, 2024
A pretty good story. Kinda YA, but cute.
September 9, 2025
If self-sabotage had a name it would be Nina. While she was going through her moment of yet and doing things for self-love she neglected the part that also allows someone to show you love. I understood that it came from the her past experiences and what her ex did to her so in a way she felt she wasn't worthy of love or ready to move on and there was a lot of self doubt there. Due to this there was some strife in their budding relationship and had her questioning things but Denzel didn't fully let that deter him which I was happy about.
I liked that Denzel was patient with her because he too had his issues with an ex that wasn't on the same page as him but he showed Nina that he meant business when it came to her and he was willing to go that mile with her. That being said he had to let her be the one to come to him to show that she wanted the same with him. It took a little bit for her to finally give in to what he was offering and let go of the past but once she got there it was up from there and I enjoyed the two of them together.
I liked that Denzel was patient with her because he too had his issues with an ex that wasn't on the same page as him but he showed Nina that he meant business when it came to her and he was willing to go that mile with her. That being said he had to let her be the one to come to him to show that she wanted the same with him. It took a little bit for her to finally give in to what he was offering and let go of the past but once she got there it was up from there and I enjoyed the two of them together.
February 8, 2025
What to say, what to say.
Read this book if you want something quick and easy just be prepared to feel frustration and irritation.
The FMC was annoying about her ex and ran hot/cold due to issues with said ex. The MMC needed to get his shit together about his ex and should’ve had therapy to deal with the fact that he lets women walk all over him.
There is spice in this book so maybe you’ll enjoy that 🤷🏽♀️
I gave it 3⭐️ but really more like 2.5⭐️
Read this book if you want something quick and easy just be prepared to feel frustration and irritation.
The FMC was annoying about her ex and ran hot/cold due to issues with said ex. The MMC needed to get his shit together about his ex and should’ve had therapy to deal with the fact that he lets women walk all over him.
There is spice in this book so maybe you’ll enjoy that 🤷🏽♀️
I gave it 3⭐️ but really more like 2.5⭐️
November 19, 2024
Meet Nina. Nina can’t cook, but is to determined to learn while following step by step video instructions. The problem is… she keeps starting fires.
Meet Denzel. He’s a fine ass firefighter with a good heart who… likes Nina.
Ok so this was a cute read, with great sizzling sex and lots of humor. I loved their friends, the double date scenes and the banter between the firefighters. They were hilarious!
What I didn’t like was Nina starting all these fires! If you can’t cook stay yo ahhh out the kitchen!! Nina was a mess following the demise of her last relationship and she still held that baggage close. Some deep and meaningful conversations could’ve really benefited them both and saved the reader the frustration of Nina getting to see what everyone else could. I’m also not a fan of forced proximity and we get that here.
One added bonus is that the sex scenes near the end was where the real🔥 came in 🥵 🥵 🥵! Yall nasty 🫣😆
Meet Denzel. He’s a fine ass firefighter with a good heart who… likes Nina.
Ok so this was a cute read, with great sizzling sex and lots of humor. I loved their friends, the double date scenes and the banter between the firefighters. They were hilarious!
What I didn’t like was Nina starting all these fires! If you can’t cook stay yo ahhh out the kitchen!! Nina was a mess following the demise of her last relationship and she still held that baggage close. Some deep and meaningful conversations could’ve really benefited them both and saved the reader the frustration of Nina getting to see what everyone else could. I’m also not a fan of forced proximity and we get that here.
One added bonus is that the sex scenes near the end was where the real🔥 came in 🥵 🥵 🥵! Yall nasty 🫣😆
August 20, 2025
3.5⭐️
This was a sweet love story with a meet cute. I loved reading how Nina wanted to find herself without the attachment of a man and related to her struggle. A MMC like Denzel that was basically a simp for his woman with no regrets was refreshing! The dialogue was a little corny at times but I think that it made the story cute.
This was a sweet love story with a meet cute. I loved reading how Nina wanted to find herself without the attachment of a man and related to her struggle. A MMC like Denzel that was basically a simp for his woman with no regrets was refreshing! The dialogue was a little corny at times but I think that it made the story cute.
February 26, 2025
Great story promoting self-love as we follow Nina as she learns to put herself first and opens herself up to new opportunities. I gave a 3 star rating due to the FMC. She irritated my reading experience lol, not sure it that was intentional. Loved the cover and the black love was rich.
May 28, 2025
Story line ⭐️⭐️⭐️
But spice level 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Worth it for a book less than 200 pages!
But spice level 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Worth it for a book less than 200 pages!
December 17, 2025
I usually don’t care for instalove, but this was the cutest instalove story ever. It gave something different than other instalove stories. I really enjoyed the connection between Nina and Denzel and the circumstances that magically brought them together on more than one occasions. It was funny with hints of spice, but a well-developed love story within these short amount of pages. It also brought both characters healing after having had horrible relationships previously.
Deacon, Tevin, and Joni were great side characters.
Deacon, Tevin, and Joni were great side characters.
August 23, 2024
4⭐️ and 2.5🌶️ "Smoke Signals" - ARC Review
Release Date: Friday August 23, 2024
“That’s when I realized, instead of losing myself in the present, I lost myself in my fears.”
If my friend Danielle doesn't do anything else, she's going to give you a novella with a plot, hilarious characters, descriptive scenery, and a man who is falling falling falling. 😍
Nina. Poor Nina. My girl needs to stay far away from the kitchen. But what I can relate to is her clumsiness in her everyday life because girl, same. I have stories. Nina is living in her year of “yes” but finds herself saying no to everything that is good for her. Two things I wanted to do after meeting Nina, call Kennedy and Tinsley (iykyk) to join her best friend Joni so they could give her a pep talk. And secondly, I wanted to scream at her for like 3 seconds then drive her to therapy. Because girl, “that’s a goodT man, Savannah.” Joni might be the realest character I've met in a book. She said everything I wanted to say to Nina with no filters.
Fear will have you missing out on not just love, but LIFE.
Denzel is a Denzel. Gorgeous. Smooth. Loves hard. And falls even harder. I found myself wanting to scream at him too because sir, please go get what belongs to you. He was fearless and knew what he wanted with Nina almost instantly. And he risked his life for hers without a second thought. But what do you do when you see something in someone that they can't see themselves? Wait or move on?
Let’s just make sure our vocal cords 🗣️ are healthy when it comes to Nina and Denzel because those two...they will make you scream at them 😂
This ending? What is going on in Lovey’s Bay?! 👀
✨He falls first
✨Forced Proximity
✨Damsel in Distress
Release Date: Friday August 23, 2024
“That’s when I realized, instead of losing myself in the present, I lost myself in my fears.”
If my friend Danielle doesn't do anything else, she's going to give you a novella with a plot, hilarious characters, descriptive scenery, and a man who is falling falling falling. 😍
Nina. Poor Nina. My girl needs to stay far away from the kitchen. But what I can relate to is her clumsiness in her everyday life because girl, same. I have stories. Nina is living in her year of “yes” but finds herself saying no to everything that is good for her. Two things I wanted to do after meeting Nina, call Kennedy and Tinsley (iykyk) to join her best friend Joni so they could give her a pep talk. And secondly, I wanted to scream at her for like 3 seconds then drive her to therapy. Because girl, “that’s a goodT man, Savannah.” Joni might be the realest character I've met in a book. She said everything I wanted to say to Nina with no filters.
Fear will have you missing out on not just love, but LIFE.
Denzel is a Denzel. Gorgeous. Smooth. Loves hard. And falls even harder. I found myself wanting to scream at him too because sir, please go get what belongs to you. He was fearless and knew what he wanted with Nina almost instantly. And he risked his life for hers without a second thought. But what do you do when you see something in someone that they can't see themselves? Wait or move on?
Let’s just make sure our vocal cords 🗣️ are healthy when it comes to Nina and Denzel because those two...they will make you scream at them 😂
This ending? What is going on in Lovey’s Bay?! 👀
✨He falls first
✨Forced Proximity
✨Damsel in Distress
September 1, 2024
good book but frustrating FMC
I definitely thought this book would be nice and sweet but instead I found it endearing and practical (in some ways). I think it’s an important lesson to learn that you can work on yourself while being in a relationship or falling in love. Nina felt that she needed to be whole before moving on. That was frustrating to read as the reader and for the love interest Denzel. He definitely had patience because she was honestly frustrating throughout the whole book. I felt like he was honest with her and she kept yo-yoing him back and forth, especially knowing his past. Loved the supporting characters that I think will end up having their own books.
There were a few grammatical errors.
I definitely thought this book would be nice and sweet but instead I found it endearing and practical (in some ways). I think it’s an important lesson to learn that you can work on yourself while being in a relationship or falling in love. Nina felt that she needed to be whole before moving on. That was frustrating to read as the reader and for the love interest Denzel. He definitely had patience because she was honestly frustrating throughout the whole book. I felt like he was honest with her and she kept yo-yoing him back and forth, especially knowing his past. Loved the supporting characters that I think will end up having their own books.
There were a few grammatical errors.
November 2, 2025
I’m not really an insta-love girlie (unless it’s paranormal, then I’ll allow it 😂). But I read this for my friend’s book club, and it actually turned out to be a cute, quick read. I don’t know if it was supposed to be funny, but Nina not knowing how to cook had me cracking up!
When it came to the relationship, I felt like Denzel had more patience than I ever could because Nina was a whole ball of confusion. He really extended grace, probably because he understood what it’s like to come from a rough past relationship. I just wanted her to make up her mind and stop comparing Denzel to her ex!
Also, the phrase “love below” popped up more than a few times, lol. I had to overlook it and keep pushing. All in all, though, I enjoyed the book!
When it came to the relationship, I felt like Denzel had more patience than I ever could because Nina was a whole ball of confusion. He really extended grace, probably because he understood what it’s like to come from a rough past relationship. I just wanted her to make up her mind and stop comparing Denzel to her ex!
Also, the phrase “love below” popped up more than a few times, lol. I had to overlook it and keep pushing. All in all, though, I enjoyed the book!
July 11, 2025
⭐️⭐️.5 — I get this was pretty much like a novella but it just didn’t have a natural progression for me and felt rushed and lowkey the MMC (forgive me, I already forgot his name 😅😭) was cringey to me. One second you can’t get over your ex and the next minute you’re all into “Goddess” 🤔😐 you were literally texting your ex when you first got the FMC’s phone number and were holding onto her items at your apartment. The way I would’ve had all her belonging on the curb on trash day, but that’s beside the point 😂
Nina was annoying too. These two just had too much baggage for me.
Nina was annoying too. These two just had too much baggage for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2024
Very hot and spicy. But Nina was kind of silly and Denzel was a simp. These two basically had a love connection from the start, but Nina let her ex constantly mess with her head. While he wasn’t thinking not one bit about her. But n9 matter how much she pushed him away, Denzel was right there the second she bat her eyelashes. He definitely paid for the sins of her ex. This definitely lost half a star because of Nina’s ambivalence.
July 22, 2025
This was my first Danielle brooks novel and I’m in awe it took me this long to found out about her. I personally had a chance to meet her and she recommended herself I start with this book. Denzel and Nina are such a cute couple. I really enjoyed the setting and the plot of this book. The pacing was fast but easy to keep up with what was happening. I definitely be continuing with the series and the rest of her catalog
August 17, 2024
Nina & Denzel ….. man they gave me all the feels! This is the first ARC I had the pleasure of reviewing and I couldn’t put it down! As you can see I finished it in the matter of hours! I ate this book for breakfast!
From the colloquialisms throughout this work used for character building; to the imagery of every spicy intimate moment between Nina & Denzel Danielle did her thing with this season transition read! This is the perfect Romance book to wrap up summer and wind down into the fall. This book appealed to all five of my senses. And let’s not forget what woman doesn’t dream to be with a handsome and strong firefighter?!
Furthermore on a more serious level, I absolutely loved that both characters level of self-awareness didn’t stop them from getting the happy ending they both deserved. In our culture, so many times people have trouble with facing the man/woman in the mirror. As for Nina and Denzel they worked endlessly to not bring their baggage from their previous relationships into their new season of love.
Five star read it gave Denzel held her tight and squeezed her right both physically, mentally, and emotionally. I will be reading more of Danielle Brooks books!
From the colloquialisms throughout this work used for character building; to the imagery of every spicy intimate moment between Nina & Denzel Danielle did her thing with this season transition read! This is the perfect Romance book to wrap up summer and wind down into the fall. This book appealed to all five of my senses. And let’s not forget what woman doesn’t dream to be with a handsome and strong firefighter?!
Furthermore on a more serious level, I absolutely loved that both characters level of self-awareness didn’t stop them from getting the happy ending they both deserved. In our culture, so many times people have trouble with facing the man/woman in the mirror. As for Nina and Denzel they worked endlessly to not bring their baggage from their previous relationships into their new season of love.
Five star read it gave Denzel held her tight and squeezed her right both physically, mentally, and emotionally. I will be reading more of Danielle Brooks books!
November 21, 2024
I wanted to like this book so badly - my husband is a firefighter and the cover was adorable! But both the main characters BOTH irritated me so bad.
Also, this is probably a personal problem, but if I read “my love below” one more time I was gonna SCREAM.
Also, this is probably a personal problem, but if I read “my love below” one more time I was gonna SCREAM.
September 1, 2024
Too many writing errors and breakups😭 I wanted to enjoy this book soooo much, but there were too many negative factors. Grammatical errors, a random character name mess up (referred to Denzel as Jameson randomly which had me flipping back through the book confused), the characters decisions were too unrealistic and confusing, AND too much back and forth for a 160 page read😩
There were several points in the story where I found the MMC Denzel’s lines were forced and too feminine for his character, and it broke the fantasy for me. Also Nina deciding to ghost Denzel 2-3 times for a whole two weeks was so weird, especially when she was having sex with him the right before that! If they were so traumatized by their pasts then why each time she ghosted Denzel did he just welcome her back with open arms? Why didn’t he react just as immature as Nina? I can’t imagine someone ghosting me TWICE for a whole 2 weeks & then i just forgive them and f*** them right after🧍🏽♀️
There were several points in the story where I found the MMC Denzel’s lines were forced and too feminine for his character, and it broke the fantasy for me. Also Nina deciding to ghost Denzel 2-3 times for a whole two weeks was so weird, especially when she was having sex with him the right before that! If they were so traumatized by their pasts then why each time she ghosted Denzel did he just welcome her back with open arms? Why didn’t he react just as immature as Nina? I can’t imagine someone ghosting me TWICE for a whole 2 weeks & then i just forgive them and f*** them right after🧍🏽♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2024
Smoke Signals
By Danielle Brooks
Is it getting hot in here, or did someone call the fire department? I need a moment to catch my breath because this story was sizzling from start to finish!
Nina is on a journey to rediscover and love herself, which includes mastering the art of cooking. But after the fire department shows up for the second time due to her fiery kitchen mishaps, she’s ready to hang up her apron. That is, until she bumps into the tall, dark, and impossibly handsome fire chief, Peyton, at the grocery store. From there, sparks fly, and the chemistry is undeniable.
Nina and Denzels connection ignites from the moment they meet, but things heat up quickly, causing Nina to pull back, afraid of getting hurt like she did with her ex. Meanwhile, Peyton finds himself falling hard, hoping that taking a chance on love won’t leave him burned. Their sweet dates and the slow-burning intensity of their relationship will have you reaching for a glass of water to cool down.
Page after page, I found myself completely invested in their journey, rooting for them to find their way through the smoke and into each other's arms. This swoon-worthy love story had me seeing hearts the entire way through.
.
.
.
.
#smokesignals #blackromance #blackromancereads #bookreview #blackreaders #forcedproximity #clumsyfmc #hopelessromantic #blacklit #ContemporaryRomance #bookstagram #blackbookstagram #daniellebrookswrites #indieauthors #firefighterromance #bookreviewer
By Danielle Brooks
Is it getting hot in here, or did someone call the fire department? I need a moment to catch my breath because this story was sizzling from start to finish!
Nina is on a journey to rediscover and love herself, which includes mastering the art of cooking. But after the fire department shows up for the second time due to her fiery kitchen mishaps, she’s ready to hang up her apron. That is, until she bumps into the tall, dark, and impossibly handsome fire chief, Peyton, at the grocery store. From there, sparks fly, and the chemistry is undeniable.
Nina and Denzels connection ignites from the moment they meet, but things heat up quickly, causing Nina to pull back, afraid of getting hurt like she did with her ex. Meanwhile, Peyton finds himself falling hard, hoping that taking a chance on love won’t leave him burned. Their sweet dates and the slow-burning intensity of their relationship will have you reaching for a glass of water to cool down.
Page after page, I found myself completely invested in their journey, rooting for them to find their way through the smoke and into each other's arms. This swoon-worthy love story had me seeing hearts the entire way through.
.
.
.
.
#smokesignals #blackromance #blackromancereads #bookreview #blackreaders #forcedproximity #clumsyfmc #hopelessromantic #blacklit #ContemporaryRomance #bookstagram #blackbookstagram #daniellebrookswrites #indieauthors #firefighterromance #bookreviewer
February 13, 2025
Blondies
Ummmm🤔, Nina has blondie tendencies which is not appealing nor attractive but rather annoying 🙄🥴‼️(In the history of domestic house fires, who in (recorded history) the heck “accidentally” throws oil on a blaze🤬‼️ Nobody and lived to tell the story!). “Smoke Signals (Fire Company 143 - Book 1) could have been a decent read. Unfortunately, both Nina & Denzel suffer from selective recall, delusions of grandeur & simpleton (ex for a reason) severance syndrome 🥴‼️Most of Nina & Denzel’s dramas were self sabotaging & could have been avoided. Nina, stated on page twenty-six “I spent almost two years with a man who, in the six months after our break up, proposed to another woman.” Now, you’re pining over a three year relationship that ended abruptly didn’t happen! Gurlll please! Relationship lesson 101, wifey duties, sex, love nor a stroked ego equates to any guarantees of matrimony 🤦🏾♀️‼️Don’t be bitter, become informed and share culpability for the demise of what didn’t work between you & your ex. Ultimately, he made his choice & it wasn’t you so (expletive) move on. Live in reality not a fantasy of “self-evaluation.” Thereafter, Denzel the smoke fumes has destroyed any common sense cells. One year later, and you’re still holding on to her stuff. This one was simple, call a darn locksmith and change the locks. Thereafter, both donations & deadlines are effective tools for transition🤷🏾♀️. DUH 🙄‼️
Ummmm🤔, Nina has blondie tendencies which is not appealing nor attractive but rather annoying 🙄🥴‼️(In the history of domestic house fires, who in (recorded history) the heck “accidentally” throws oil on a blaze🤬‼️ Nobody and lived to tell the story!). “Smoke Signals (Fire Company 143 - Book 1) could have been a decent read. Unfortunately, both Nina & Denzel suffer from selective recall, delusions of grandeur & simpleton (ex for a reason) severance syndrome 🥴‼️Most of Nina & Denzel’s dramas were self sabotaging & could have been avoided. Nina, stated on page twenty-six “I spent almost two years with a man who, in the six months after our break up, proposed to another woman.” Now, you’re pining over a three year relationship that ended abruptly didn’t happen! Gurlll please! Relationship lesson 101, wifey duties, sex, love nor a stroked ego equates to any guarantees of matrimony 🤦🏾♀️‼️Don’t be bitter, become informed and share culpability for the demise of what didn’t work between you & your ex. Ultimately, he made his choice & it wasn’t you so (expletive) move on. Live in reality not a fantasy of “self-evaluation.” Thereafter, Denzel the smoke fumes has destroyed any common sense cells. One year later, and you’re still holding on to her stuff. This one was simple, call a darn locksmith and change the locks. Thereafter, both donations & deadlines are effective tools for transition🤷🏾♀️. DUH 🙄‼️
April 7, 2025
When I started Smoke Signals (Fire Company 143 Book 1), I was all in on the story because it starts off so strong, specifically the first 30% had me sucked in and I was really enjoying the story. Somewhere around the 55-70% mark, the story took a turn for me - mostly because of the FMC Nina. Talk about an irritating character. I just didn't find her likable. Even her friend Joni was sick of her sh*t lol.
I really kept reading for the MMC Denzel. He was open, vulnerable, honest, and dreamy - just what you want in a book bae. His character really shines. Unfortunately, the book isn't that long, so there's very little character development with Denzel and readers only get a glimpse of Thandie. I would've appreciated a little more angst in the story but it would've turned this instalove summer fling romance into something totally different: a true slow burn.
Anyway, I enjoyed the story of Nina and Denzel mostly and I recommend Smoke Signals to anyone who enjoys low angst, relaxing, light hearted, fast-paced romance stories. I'm excited to read book 2 and hope there's more info about Joni and Tevin plus Deacon and Vanessa...the author really leaves us hanging with the last couple.
Final rating: 3.25/5 stars
Spice rating: 2/5 stars
Content warnings:
Moderate: Cursing, Sexual content, Fire/Fire injury, Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Infidelity, Toxic relationship
I really kept reading for the MMC Denzel. He was open, vulnerable, honest, and dreamy - just what you want in a book bae. His character really shines. Unfortunately, the book isn't that long, so there's very little character development with Denzel and readers only get a glimpse of Thandie. I would've appreciated a little more angst in the story but it would've turned this instalove summer fling romance into something totally different: a true slow burn.
Anyway, I enjoyed the story of Nina and Denzel mostly and I recommend Smoke Signals to anyone who enjoys low angst, relaxing, light hearted, fast-paced romance stories. I'm excited to read book 2 and hope there's more info about Joni and Tevin plus Deacon and Vanessa...the author really leaves us hanging with the last couple.
Final rating: 3.25/5 stars
Spice rating: 2/5 stars
Content warnings:
Moderate: Cursing, Sexual content, Fire/Fire injury, Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Infidelity, Toxic relationship
April 25, 2025
If this book had a theme song, it’d be “I Can Love You” by Mary J. Blige because my man, Denzel, was really trying with Nina and my ass would’ve tried to snatch him up if he were real and Nina kept playing 🤣
Nina got on my damn nerves with the back and forth when it came to Denzel. Overall, she was a good character but giiirrrlll. That hot and cold sh*t was annoying. I lost count of how many times I said, “Nina, don’t piss me off.” The first time she ended things with Denzel, I could understand where she was coming from. The second time, I wanted to pop her in her damn forehead lol. Shoutout to Joni for gathering Nina. (Joni was a whole vibe btw.)
I think if Nina had actually taken the time to heal from her relationship with Pierre, she wouldn’t have been so wishy-washy. Nina even acknowledges she hadn’t properly healed from that relationship like she initially thought she did. I would’ve loved for Nina to have gone on her healing journey after she broke up with Denzel the first time.
Denzel was such a sweetheart and loverboy. I liked him instantly. Denzel’s only fault was his lack of urgency when it came to solidifying the end of his relationship with Thandie. The only time I was on Nina’s side was when Thandie showed up to the house and let herself in. Cause not only would I be mad that she interrupted our sexy time, but also why tf does she have a key to our house?!
But, again, that really was the only strike against Denzel. He was pretty much perfect in every other way. Add him to the book boyfriend list.
Nina got on my damn nerves with the back and forth when it came to Denzel. Overall, she was a good character but giiirrrlll. That hot and cold sh*t was annoying. I lost count of how many times I said, “Nina, don’t piss me off.” The first time she ended things with Denzel, I could understand where she was coming from. The second time, I wanted to pop her in her damn forehead lol. Shoutout to Joni for gathering Nina. (Joni was a whole vibe btw.)
I think if Nina had actually taken the time to heal from her relationship with Pierre, she wouldn’t have been so wishy-washy. Nina even acknowledges she hadn’t properly healed from that relationship like she initially thought she did. I would’ve loved for Nina to have gone on her healing journey after she broke up with Denzel the first time.
Denzel was such a sweetheart and loverboy. I liked him instantly. Denzel’s only fault was his lack of urgency when it came to solidifying the end of his relationship with Thandie. The only time I was on Nina’s side was when Thandie showed up to the house and let herself in. Cause not only would I be mad that she interrupted our sexy time, but also why tf does she have a key to our house?!
But, again, that really was the only strike against Denzel. He was pretty much perfect in every other way. Add him to the book boyfriend list.
October 17, 2024
Smoke Signals
This was my first read by this author and after reading this story, I am intrigued by the potential of this series. I liked that Denzel was not scared to love and show his feelings and give his all to a relationship. I liked the chemistry between him and Nina. I also liked the sub characters. As for Nina, I liked her quirkiness even though she was extremely clumsy.
There were times I could relate to Nina and there were other times, I really just wanted to shake some sense into her. Nina was the definition of an overthinker who self sabotages herself keep focusing on her past failed relationship. Denzel was showing her every thing she seemed to want out of a mate, but she kept getting in her own way and running from him even though her gut told her to stay and that he felt the same for her as she did for him. By the time these two had a third act breakup, I was over Nina and her running, especially without communicating to this man about why she was running. In the end, they got their happy for now.
This book showed potential, but I feel some parts missed the mark. It was interesting enough for me to finish the story and the side characters have me curious about future books in this series, but if they are anything like this one, I’m not sure I will read any more of this authors works.
This was my first read by this author and after reading this story, I am intrigued by the potential of this series. I liked that Denzel was not scared to love and show his feelings and give his all to a relationship. I liked the chemistry between him and Nina. I also liked the sub characters. As for Nina, I liked her quirkiness even though she was extremely clumsy.
There were times I could relate to Nina and there were other times, I really just wanted to shake some sense into her. Nina was the definition of an overthinker who self sabotages herself keep focusing on her past failed relationship. Denzel was showing her every thing she seemed to want out of a mate, but she kept getting in her own way and running from him even though her gut told her to stay and that he felt the same for her as she did for him. By the time these two had a third act breakup, I was over Nina and her running, especially without communicating to this man about why she was running. In the end, they got their happy for now.
This book showed potential, but I feel some parts missed the mark. It was interesting enough for me to finish the story and the side characters have me curious about future books in this series, but if they are anything like this one, I’m not sure I will read any more of this authors works.
April 16, 2025
This was a warm, feel-good novella that’s like chicken soup for your inner romantic. Nina’s on this personal growth journey, trying to say “yes” to new things post-heartbreak—which, unfortunately for her kitchen, includes cooking. 😅 Enter Denzel, a firefighter who shows up when things literally start smoking... and he turns out to be everything Nina didn’t know she needed.
💛 Things that made me smile:
-Nina’s “yes era” felt super relatable and uplifting. She’s soft, but strong—and watching her grow was inspiring.
-Denzel is a total sweetheart. Protective, kind, and emotionally intelligent?? We love to see it.
-The story keeps things light without feeling shallow—like a perfect chill weekend read.
-The chemistry was sweet and believable, without being over-the-top.
🌀 What held it back for me:
-The pacing was a little quick. I wanted more of them—more convos, more tension, more time to fall deeper.
-It wrapped up really fast. I felt like we just got started when it ended.
-Not super high stakes or drama, so if you live for angst or messy chaos (👀 hi, it’s me), this one plays it pretty safe.
💛 Things that made me smile:
-Nina’s “yes era” felt super relatable and uplifting. She’s soft, but strong—and watching her grow was inspiring.
-Denzel is a total sweetheart. Protective, kind, and emotionally intelligent?? We love to see it.
-The story keeps things light without feeling shallow—like a perfect chill weekend read.
-The chemistry was sweet and believable, without being over-the-top.
🌀 What held it back for me:
-The pacing was a little quick. I wanted more of them—more convos, more tension, more time to fall deeper.
-It wrapped up really fast. I felt like we just got started when it ended.
-Not super high stakes or drama, so if you live for angst or messy chaos (👀 hi, it’s me), this one plays it pretty safe.
March 17, 2025
If you love a book with some good banter, and not just between the FMC & MMC, you will love this book! The friendship banter was just as funny as the romance. It felt so realistic (the banter) and I had a really good time reading this book!
This is definitely a “when you know, you know” romance. I love how fast paced it was but gave all it needed to give. It had the right amount of conflict to the story that didn’t overwhelm you or piss you off. In addition, the spice was there and Denzel (the mmc) was so nurturing. Nina (the fmc) was a gem as well. Her apprehensiveness was very much warranted. Although I didn’t like how she handled some situations, she was still a very likable character. All of them were! I can’t wait to read Deacon’s story!!!
The only reason why I didn’t five star it is because when I love characters the way I love Denzel & Nina, I want to see more in the epilogue (that’s just a personal problem that I am working on lol). Anyway, this is my first book by this author and it won’t be my last!!!!
This is definitely a “when you know, you know” romance. I love how fast paced it was but gave all it needed to give. It had the right amount of conflict to the story that didn’t overwhelm you or piss you off. In addition, the spice was there and Denzel (the mmc) was so nurturing. Nina (the fmc) was a gem as well. Her apprehensiveness was very much warranted. Although I didn’t like how she handled some situations, she was still a very likable character. All of them were! I can’t wait to read Deacon’s story!!!
The only reason why I didn’t five star it is because when I love characters the way I love Denzel & Nina, I want to see more in the epilogue (that’s just a personal problem that I am working on lol). Anyway, this is my first book by this author and it won’t be my last!!!!
August 18, 2024
3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ .5 stars! Thank you to the author for the ARC! Nina is on a self journey of putting her self first, discovering new things and loving herself. She just got out of a bad breakup and wants to approach her next relationship differently. She is taking an online cooking class and has a mishap where she has to call the fire department for the second time.
Denzel just got out of a relationship also, where he wanted to get engaged but she did not. He feels that he always falls hard quickly and he wants to change this. Denzel is the fire chief that is on call for the second visit to Nina’s emergency when the fire department is called and he sees her and they both feel the immediate chemistry.
Nina and Denzel weren’t looking for love at this moment but sometimes love can come when we aren’t expecting it. Nina wants to continue to focus on herself but the best laid plans don’t always work out. This story had a lot of spice in my opinion but kept me engaged, making it an enjoyable read overall.
Denzel just got out of a relationship also, where he wanted to get engaged but she did not. He feels that he always falls hard quickly and he wants to change this. Denzel is the fire chief that is on call for the second visit to Nina’s emergency when the fire department is called and he sees her and they both feel the immediate chemistry.
Nina and Denzel weren’t looking for love at this moment but sometimes love can come when we aren’t expecting it. Nina wants to continue to focus on herself but the best laid plans don’t always work out. This story had a lot of spice in my opinion but kept me engaged, making it an enjoyable read overall.
October 9, 2025
I gave this an extra star simply because the concept of the book was cute, otherwise it’s a one star read. The problem for me was that this needed a serious round of editing. The biggest issue was that verb tenses would change from paragraph to paragraph, sometimes even in the middle of a single sentence. It made parts of the book difficult to read on a functional level. That wasn’t the only problem though. There were words used wrongly, missing punctuation, things like that. And don’t get me started on the number of times the FMC Nina referred to her genitals as her “love below.” I wanted to scream.
As for the story itself, Nina is a fire hazard when it comes to the kitchen, and our MMC Denzel is the fire chief who rescues her. Cute right? Except Nina was so wishy-washy with her feelings for most of this 160-something page novella. This book was too short to have so much manufactured drama.
As for the story itself, Nina is a fire hazard when it comes to the kitchen, and our MMC Denzel is the fire chief who rescues her. Cute right? Except Nina was so wishy-washy with her feelings for most of this 160-something page novella. This book was too short to have so much manufactured drama.
December 14, 2025
She was one of the most insufferable FMC’s ever. I was so frustrated with her because she just kept running and running. The MC wasn’t any better because he was also weird about his ex. How could you let an ex control your life like that?! Like I get it but it gets SO EMBARRASSING AT SOME POINT!!!
And for a couple with so many emotional issues they did everything BUT talk. Idk I felt like they were way too physical and not enough heart to hearts were happening. Spice is fine but I think they just ONLY did that. Where are the dates? The pillow talk conversations? The yearning? I wanted so much more.
Bonus points for Denzel, he’s a GOOD MAN SAVANNA! A GOOD MAN
I wanted to like this book so badly. Denzel was so fine but their chemistry wasn’t convincing. To me, it was pure lust😔It had so much potential too…damn
If you’re looking for a quick and easy read (a little frustrating too) this one’s for you.
And for a couple with so many emotional issues they did everything BUT talk. Idk I felt like they were way too physical and not enough heart to hearts were happening. Spice is fine but I think they just ONLY did that. Where are the dates? The pillow talk conversations? The yearning? I wanted so much more.
Bonus points for Denzel, he’s a GOOD MAN SAVANNA! A GOOD MAN
I wanted to like this book so badly. Denzel was so fine but their chemistry wasn’t convincing. To me, it was pure lust😔It had so much potential too…damn
If you’re looking for a quick and easy read (a little frustrating too) this one’s for you.
March 24, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up not because it was so great but because I love a man who begs & pleads & chases.
Another book that I liked a lot but needed some work. There were some grammar issues, no discussion of protection during the spicy scenes & reading love below THAT many times gave me the ick! Most of all, I think an actual discussion/some clarification to what Nina & Denzel were (in regard to commitment/exclusivity) would have avoided a lot of their issues at least half way through the book. Also can we please get a conversation about condoms?! I thought Nina would be pregnant in the epilogue tbh
I loved how Denzel was willing to fight so hard for the relationship & besides one of the worst names for a vagina I’ve ever read I liked the spicy scenes.
Some people are not gonna like the back & forth between the MCs but it’s my type romance tbh
Another book that I liked a lot but needed some work. There were some grammar issues, no discussion of protection during the spicy scenes & reading love below THAT many times gave me the ick! Most of all, I think an actual discussion/some clarification to what Nina & Denzel were (in regard to commitment/exclusivity) would have avoided a lot of their issues at least half way through the book. Also can we please get a conversation about condoms?! I thought Nina would be pregnant in the epilogue tbh
I loved how Denzel was willing to fight so hard for the relationship & besides one of the worst names for a vagina I’ve ever read I liked the spicy scenes.
Some people are not gonna like the back & forth between the MCs but it’s my type romance tbh
August 25, 2024
Characters 8/10
Atmosphere 7/10
Writing 8/10
Plot 7/10
Intrigue 8/10
Logic 7/10
Enjoyment 8/10
Smoke Signals is a romance novel that tells the story of Nina and Denzel, two individuals recently out of one-sided relationships where they were the only ones seeking long-term commitment. When Nina, whose fiery personality matches her nickname, meets Denzel, a dedicated firefighter, their connection ignites. However, the question remains: will their past heartbreaks prevent them from building a future together?
From the first page, Nina and Denzel are instantly likable. Danielle has a talent for crafting characters that readers want to root for. While the pacing felt a bit quick, it’s understandable given the shorter length of the novel/novella. I’m eager to see what’s next for Fire Co 143 and look forward to reading more of Danielle’s work as it comes out!
Thank you Danielle for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Atmosphere 7/10
Writing 8/10
Plot 7/10
Intrigue 8/10
Logic 7/10
Enjoyment 8/10
Smoke Signals is a romance novel that tells the story of Nina and Denzel, two individuals recently out of one-sided relationships where they were the only ones seeking long-term commitment. When Nina, whose fiery personality matches her nickname, meets Denzel, a dedicated firefighter, their connection ignites. However, the question remains: will their past heartbreaks prevent them from building a future together?
From the first page, Nina and Denzel are instantly likable. Danielle has a talent for crafting characters that readers want to root for. While the pacing felt a bit quick, it’s understandable given the shorter length of the novel/novella. I’m eager to see what’s next for Fire Co 143 and look forward to reading more of Danielle’s work as it comes out!
Thank you Danielle for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
January 27, 2025
Using four(4) days to finish a 168 page romance novel….
that, unfortunately, didn't quite capture my interest 🤔. While it wasn't a bad book, it just didn't resonate with me 📚.
While I appreciated their connection and the slow burn of their relationship, I felt that it lacked depth 📊. I was hoping for a bit more intensity and emotional complexity, but the moments that did stand out weren't enough to fully engage me 📺.
The emotional tension between Nina and Denzel was interesting, but the pace and development felt a little slow at times ⏱️.
👍 If you're into slow-burn romances where the main characters work through their emotional baggage, this book might be for you 📚. But for me, it was just okay 😐.
that, unfortunately, didn't quite capture my interest 🤔. While it wasn't a bad book, it just didn't resonate with me 📚.
While I appreciated their connection and the slow burn of their relationship, I felt that it lacked depth 📊. I was hoping for a bit more intensity and emotional complexity, but the moments that did stand out weren't enough to fully engage me 📺.
The emotional tension between Nina and Denzel was interesting, but the pace and development felt a little slow at times ⏱️.
👍 If you're into slow-burn romances where the main characters work through their emotional baggage, this book might be for you 📚. But for me, it was just okay 😐.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews