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Cherry Red
Overstepping the platonic-only rule is as dangerous as fire and ice swirling into steamy combustion.
This summer, Carly Redd focuses on expanding her ice cream business. Coerced into attending her ex's engagement party with firefighter, Noah Harding, posing as her “fake” boyfriend stirs up a fiery combination, especially when his warm charm melts the ice guarding her heart.
The fire chief’s daughter should wear a Do Not Touch sign, but Noah's interest burned the moment he first saw Carly. Masquerading as her boyfriend is a no-brainer, but convincing Carly to trust him with her heart proves harder than extinguishing a wildfire.
This summer, Carly Redd focuses on expanding her ice cream business. Coerced into attending her ex's engagement party with firefighter, Noah Harding, posing as her “fake” boyfriend stirs up a fiery combination, especially when his warm charm melts the ice guarding her heart.
The fire chief’s daughter should wear a Do Not Touch sign, but Noah's interest burned the moment he first saw Carly. Masquerading as her boyfriend is a no-brainer, but convincing Carly to trust him with her heart proves harder than extinguishing a wildfire.
- GenresRomance
138 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 2, 2024
5 people want to read
About the author
Darlene Fredette
12 books74 followersDarlene Fredette is a writer, screenwriter, and multi-published author of contemporary women’s fiction who is passionate about storytelling across page and screen. Her publishing credits include a seven-book small-town Redford Falls series and single titles with wit, twists, and a touch of intrigue.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
October 18, 2021
Carly is laser focused on business. When she’s not working at Cherry Red her ice cream hut she’s busy creating new flavours. She’s helping out as a bartender when she first meets Noah. The attraction is instant but Carly doesn’t have time for a boyfriend. Plus she mistakes him for a stripper. Then she finds out it’s worse than that he’s a firefighter.
Noah steps in to be her fake boyfriend since she has to go to her ex’s engagement do. And the more time they spend together the more they fall for each other. But Carly is nothing if not stubborn and she fights against the attraction.
“I still don’t understand why you have to break up.”
None of us do Josie, none of us do.
“We fit so well… Like we belong together.”
“Because you do. Why won’t you follow your heart?”
A question I’ve been asking myself, repeatedly.
This is such a sweet adorable (and clean) read. Yes Carly’s stubbornness is annoying at times. But it’s a light feel good romance.
I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided by the publishers and NetGalley.
Noah steps in to be her fake boyfriend since she has to go to her ex’s engagement do. And the more time they spend together the more they fall for each other. But Carly is nothing if not stubborn and she fights against the attraction.
“I still don’t understand why you have to break up.”
None of us do Josie, none of us do.
“We fit so well… Like we belong together.”
“Because you do. Why won’t you follow your heart?”
A question I’ve been asking myself, repeatedly.
This is such a sweet adorable (and clean) read. Yes Carly’s stubbornness is annoying at times. But it’s a light feel good romance.
I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided by the publishers and NetGalley.
October 21, 2021
Having family that's Canadian I thought that I would read one of their books. I do not know if we are in fact related but it sounds like we might be. Cherry Red is considered a romantic love story and my genre is definitely mysteries and thrillers. However, I really enjoyed this short story about two people who were not suppose to be in love, but in fact fell into love with everyone knowing that the outcome was to be love, but that they didn't have a clue. This is a change from the noir books that I read, and is a breath of fresh air in my reading. I was surprised in how easy it was to follow and yet you always had the hope that they would end up together. Darlene came through.
August 17, 2021
Fire and Ice--that's the theme of Ms. Fredette's latest book. And the author delivers with a smoking hot firefighter hero (Noah), and a glimpse into the world of gourmet ice creams, whipped up by a most endearing heroine (Carly).
If you're looking for a "feel-good" romance with lots of witty banter and fun, this is the story for you. What starts as a "fake date" for Carly, so she can save face at her ex's engagement party, soon goes the way of a runaway train, as Carly and Noah fall hard for each other.
Great story, fun romance, well-developed characters make this book a joy to read.
If you're looking for a "feel-good" romance with lots of witty banter and fun, this is the story for you. What starts as a "fake date" for Carly, so she can save face at her ex's engagement party, soon goes the way of a runaway train, as Carly and Noah fall hard for each other.
Great story, fun romance, well-developed characters make this book a joy to read.
October 17, 2021
Carly needs a date for her ex's engagement party and a meet-cute fueled by a funny misunderstanding puts Noah, an excellent prospect, in her path. They definitely have chemistry, but can Carly be convinced that Noah is worth taking a chance on?
This is a short, sweet, PG-rated, low-angst romance with nice, appealing MCs who are both easy to root for. I loved learning about Carly's ice cream business (yum!) and really enjoyed the detail about Halifax that came through in their story as well--it sounds like a lovely place to visit!
Pick this up for a light treat--it's perfect for a smile!
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review!
This is a short, sweet, PG-rated, low-angst romance with nice, appealing MCs who are both easy to root for. I loved learning about Carly's ice cream business (yum!) and really enjoyed the detail about Halifax that came through in their story as well--it sounds like a lovely place to visit!
Pick this up for a light treat--it's perfect for a smile!
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review!
September 25, 2021
Romance isn’t strictly necessary for a good life, but it can certainly make everything sweeter!
Carly was a well-rounded and fascinating protagonist. I was thrilled by the fact that she’d created such a fulfilling life for herself. She was a content, happy human being long before her love interest showed up which is always something I love seeing in romance novels. There’s nothing like meeting a main character who already has plenty going on for herself and knows exactly what she wants.
I did notice a few inconsistencies in Carly and Noah’s communication skills. They did a much better job sharing their thoughts and expressing their needs in the beginning than they did later on in the storyline. As much as I enjoyed the storyline in general, I was a little puzzled by why the communication between them weakened at such a pivotal part of the plot. It seemed like something they could have sorted out much earlier. With that being said, this was a minor criticism of something I’d otherwise heartily recommend.
The romance was handled beautifully. I appreciated the fact that Carly and Noah were given so much time to get to know each other before anything romantic happened between them. That was an excellent choice due to their personalities and backstories that showed why both of them needed to move slowly with any new love interest. It also gave this reader ample opportunity to imagine what it might be like when they crossed the line between a platonic relationship and a romantic one.
This is part of the One Scoop or Two series. It can be read as a standalone work.
Cherry Red was a satisfying and enjoyable read.
Carly was a well-rounded and fascinating protagonist. I was thrilled by the fact that she’d created such a fulfilling life for herself. She was a content, happy human being long before her love interest showed up which is always something I love seeing in romance novels. There’s nothing like meeting a main character who already has plenty going on for herself and knows exactly what she wants.
I did notice a few inconsistencies in Carly and Noah’s communication skills. They did a much better job sharing their thoughts and expressing their needs in the beginning than they did later on in the storyline. As much as I enjoyed the storyline in general, I was a little puzzled by why the communication between them weakened at such a pivotal part of the plot. It seemed like something they could have sorted out much earlier. With that being said, this was a minor criticism of something I’d otherwise heartily recommend.
The romance was handled beautifully. I appreciated the fact that Carly and Noah were given so much time to get to know each other before anything romantic happened between them. That was an excellent choice due to their personalities and backstories that showed why both of them needed to move slowly with any new love interest. It also gave this reader ample opportunity to imagine what it might be like when they crossed the line between a platonic relationship and a romantic one.
This is part of the One Scoop or Two series. It can be read as a standalone work.
Cherry Red was a satisfying and enjoyable read.
October 3, 2021
Cherry Red is a sweet treat. The characters are appealing and nicely drawn, especially Noah and Carly. Though the book’s timeline is compact, I bought that these two could quickly move past their “fake” romance to fall for the other. Who can resist a hunky firefighter (with a motorcycle!) and a spirited ice cream entrepreneur? It was especially fun to learn about Carly’s experimentation with new flavors, including her innovative ice cream / alcohol concoctions. Made me want to sample, of course! Even though we’ve moved past the summer season, I recommend this smooth indulgence from the One Scoop or Two series from The Wild Rose Press.
September 22, 2021
Up and coming entrepreneur Carly Redd has a lousy history with men. In fact, she’d rather devote her life improving her new business than spend her precious time off with a man who will only end up leaving her.
Firefighter Noah “Blaise” Harding comes from a strong, loving family whose bonds rewrote the book for lasting marriage. He’d looking for the forever type of woman—and is prepared to wait a lifetime for her.
They meet under unusual circumstances—she’s creating interesting titled beverages that combine her passion for ice cream with “adult” additives. In walk a group of hot looking firemen whom she has reason to believe are part of the “adult” entertainment for the event. She’s not about to think twice about a man who removes his clothes for pay—and lets him know immediately. Noah on the other hand is struck deaf, dumb and blind at the first meeting, and is willing to do anything and everything to win over the energetic Carly.
Our Review: Again, author Darlene Fredette treats the reader to a fast and fun example of interesting, relatable characters with crisp, snappy dialogue. Toss in the charm of historic Halifax, Nova Scotia and a host of diverse and colorful secondary characters. Fans of Darlene as well as the One Scoop or Two Series out of the Wild Rose Press are in for a treat.
On a scale of 1-5, Cherry Red deserves a 6.
Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews
Firefighter Noah “Blaise” Harding comes from a strong, loving family whose bonds rewrote the book for lasting marriage. He’d looking for the forever type of woman—and is prepared to wait a lifetime for her.
They meet under unusual circumstances—she’s creating interesting titled beverages that combine her passion for ice cream with “adult” additives. In walk a group of hot looking firemen whom she has reason to believe are part of the “adult” entertainment for the event. She’s not about to think twice about a man who removes his clothes for pay—and lets him know immediately. Noah on the other hand is struck deaf, dumb and blind at the first meeting, and is willing to do anything and everything to win over the energetic Carly.
Our Review: Again, author Darlene Fredette treats the reader to a fast and fun example of interesting, relatable characters with crisp, snappy dialogue. Toss in the charm of historic Halifax, Nova Scotia and a host of diverse and colorful secondary characters. Fans of Darlene as well as the One Scoop or Two Series out of the Wild Rose Press are in for a treat.
On a scale of 1-5, Cherry Red deserves a 6.
Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews
August 30, 2021
First of all, what a fun cover. This is a perfect little read to cuddle up with during the approaching Fall days. And it features ice cream and firemen…what more could you want?
The story brings together Carly Redd, who runs a local ice cream parlor, and Noah “Blaze”, a fireman who runs her heart rate up.
Her father is a fireman, her brother is a fireman, and the guy who broke her heart was a fireman. Three strikes against Noah before he can even say “Hi”. But fate brings them together when Carly is roped into attending an engagement party for an Ex, and Noah is volunteered as her date.
Carly has sworn off personal involvement with firemen, but how can she say no to handsome, thoughtful, and fun to be around Noah? With the fire chief and Carly’s brother warning him off as far as dating her, maybe she won’t have to worry.
How they overcome the obstacles, self-made and otherwise, offers a good story with ice cream experimentation and a motor cycle thrown in for good measure. I always enjoy Darlene Fredette’s writing, and although a quick read, the characters were well developed and showed growth. A happy little escape
The story brings together Carly Redd, who runs a local ice cream parlor, and Noah “Blaze”, a fireman who runs her heart rate up.
Her father is a fireman, her brother is a fireman, and the guy who broke her heart was a fireman. Three strikes against Noah before he can even say “Hi”. But fate brings them together when Carly is roped into attending an engagement party for an Ex, and Noah is volunteered as her date.
Carly has sworn off personal involvement with firemen, but how can she say no to handsome, thoughtful, and fun to be around Noah? With the fire chief and Carly’s brother warning him off as far as dating her, maybe she won’t have to worry.
How they overcome the obstacles, self-made and otherwise, offers a good story with ice cream experimentation and a motor cycle thrown in for good measure. I always enjoy Darlene Fredette’s writing, and although a quick read, the characters were well developed and showed growth. A happy little escape
January 18, 2022
What a fun read! Carly is laser-focused on making her summertime business a success. When she's not serving her delicious ice cream to patrons, she's creating new flavors to tempt their palates. And what a great location! Her ice cream hut sits on the beach in Southern California, and long lines are common. She has no time or interest in love. She tried it once and got burned. Never again. The humiliation of the broken engagement still stings, even after a year. She wasn't good enough for Declan (or so his mother proclaimed.) The story opens with Carly bartending at a bachelorette party as a favor to a friend. She's anxious to try out her new alcohol/ice cream concoctions, which are an instant hit. The male strippers hired for the party are dressed as firemen. So, it's no wonder Carly had her doubts when real firefighters showed up. Sparks flew, but she would never date a fireman again. Her father and brother are both firemen. It's too dangerous. No, never a fireman. But when circumstances throw her and Noah together in a fake boyfriend, girlfriend scenario, neither are prepared to fall in love. This is a quick read with fantastic scenery and delicious ice cream melting under the spell of Noah Blaze.
February 6, 2025
Carly may be the fire chief’s daughter but Noah vows to melt her icy heart. Fire and ice combine in this steamy romance. Cherry Red is a sizzling fake boyfriend/secret relationship romance I couldn’t put down. This story is character-driven and these characters stole my heart. I like Carly for her independence, her feistiness, and her passion. Noah may be a firefighter but he's all heart. The romance is a delicious blend of tropes with emotion, flirty dialogue, and a happy ending.
Darlene Fredette has penned a realistic romance set in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The setting becomes a minor character thanks to the immersive writing. The dialogue is another reason why the writing is superb. Snappy dialogue including sparring between the hero and heroine moves the story at a fast pace. Funny, emotional, flirty romance makes Cherry Red a joy to read.
There isn’t a single thing I don’t love about this romance. If you’re looking for a short read but fully developed, take my advice and read Cherry Red. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day, or any day of the year.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
Darlene Fredette has penned a realistic romance set in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The setting becomes a minor character thanks to the immersive writing. The dialogue is another reason why the writing is superb. Snappy dialogue including sparring between the hero and heroine moves the story at a fast pace. Funny, emotional, flirty romance makes Cherry Red a joy to read.
There isn’t a single thing I don’t love about this romance. If you’re looking for a short read but fully developed, take my advice and read Cherry Red. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day, or any day of the year.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
November 29, 2021
Publication from Blacklit PR
A great light read full of descriptive and captivating characters between a young female entrepreneur running an ice cream business and the un-datable in Carley's mind a firefighter. The young protagonist is dead set on never dating a firefighter again or because like her father or brother in the dangerous profession but when push comes to shove she has no other option then take the handsome firefighter Noah as her date to her ex's engagement party or face the ridicule of going alone.
"Mr. Firefighter...Noah sure had a way about him. Grimacing, she wondered why she mistook him for a stripper. Maybe he was the real deal. Which was even more reason to avoid him. Then why did her heart skip a beat at the thought of seeing Noah again?"
Between a battle of attraction and strong will can Carley stay away from Noah?
The battle is great between mind and heart in this book in an overall amazing read the only downfall was not continuing to read more between this heated couple...from the characters to the plot this is an addicting novel leaving readers to want more of the "fire and ice" combo. Cannot wait to read more great books from this author!
A great light read full of descriptive and captivating characters between a young female entrepreneur running an ice cream business and the un-datable in Carley's mind a firefighter. The young protagonist is dead set on never dating a firefighter again or because like her father or brother in the dangerous profession but when push comes to shove she has no other option then take the handsome firefighter Noah as her date to her ex's engagement party or face the ridicule of going alone.
"Mr. Firefighter...Noah sure had a way about him. Grimacing, she wondered why she mistook him for a stripper. Maybe he was the real deal. Which was even more reason to avoid him. Then why did her heart skip a beat at the thought of seeing Noah again?"
Between a battle of attraction and strong will can Carley stay away from Noah?
The battle is great between mind and heart in this book in an overall amazing read the only downfall was not continuing to read more between this heated couple...from the characters to the plot this is an addicting novel leaving readers to want more of the "fire and ice" combo. Cannot wait to read more great books from this author!
June 4, 2025
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Cherry Red by Darlene Fredette is a cozy romantic comedy with all the charm of a small-town love story.
Carly Redd finds herself reluctantly attending her ex-boyfriend’s engagement party. Her brother suggests bringing a fake boyfriend, an idea she initially dismisses—until she meets Noah Harding, the new firefighter in town. Sparks fly from their first encounter, and their connection only deepens as they spend more time together. But Carly has sworn off dating firefighters. Can she let go of the past and open her heart to something new?
This story has everything I love in a rom-com: a strong, relatable female lead, a golden-retriever-type male lead with a subtle dominant edge, and a fast-paced, heartwarming romance. Noah falls first, and his genuine admiration for Carly is so sweet to read. Their dates are adorable, and the chemistry feels natural and effortless. My favorite scene? Definitely the one in the garage—it was the perfect mix of tension and tenderness.
If you’re a fan of clean, feel-good romance with a spark, this book is for you.
Cherry Red by Darlene Fredette is a cozy romantic comedy with all the charm of a small-town love story.
Carly Redd finds herself reluctantly attending her ex-boyfriend’s engagement party. Her brother suggests bringing a fake boyfriend, an idea she initially dismisses—until she meets Noah Harding, the new firefighter in town. Sparks fly from their first encounter, and their connection only deepens as they spend more time together. But Carly has sworn off dating firefighters. Can she let go of the past and open her heart to something new?
This story has everything I love in a rom-com: a strong, relatable female lead, a golden-retriever-type male lead with a subtle dominant edge, and a fast-paced, heartwarming romance. Noah falls first, and his genuine admiration for Carly is so sweet to read. Their dates are adorable, and the chemistry feels natural and effortless. My favorite scene? Definitely the one in the garage—it was the perfect mix of tension and tenderness.
If you’re a fan of clean, feel-good romance with a spark, this book is for you.
February 24, 2022
Synopsis:
A fake relationship.
A girl who swore off firefighters.
A guy who wants her.
Carly Redd made a promise to herself to never get involved with another firefighter. Not after that tragic night that caused all her fears to come true. Now, Carly’s focused on expanding her ice cream business and creating new ice cream flavours. However, her past is back in the form of her ex, and to make matters worse, he’s engaged and throwing an engagement party. Carly has to attend, but going without a date is a sure way to get people talking.
Noah Harding knows there is a rule set in place between the firefighters, never flirt or date the Chief’s daughter. That rule goes out the door when he agrees to fake date Carly Redd, at least until the party.
Getting Carly to trust Noah is like a wildfire that can’t be put out, but Carly knows that Noah won’t stop until he has her trust. Everyone knows Noah is the fire to her ice, but it’s up to Carly to open her heart and take the step she promised never to take again.
My Review:
(Thank you to the NetGalley team for allowing me to read this ARC!)
I always love a story involving firefighters, and Cherry Red was no exception! 😍
I loved the concept of the story, and I even enjoyed the personalities of the two main characters, Noah and Carly. As for the side-characters, I did find it disappointing that they didn’t get involved in the story as much as I hoped they would, they always add a certain depth to a book that makes it more immersive! 🤗
The two main characters definitely had chemistry between them, but the relationship escalated rather quickly. It would’ve been a bit more realistic if their relationship had more time to develop and grow that would have created a deeper connection, even for the reader.
I still loved the story though! There was definite potential in this book, and I liked Darlene Fredette’s writing style! My eyes will be open to other books by Darlene Fredette!
I would recommend this book to those who love fast reads, insta-love, and a bit of romance! 💛
My Rating: 2.5/5 ✨
A fake relationship.
A girl who swore off firefighters.
A guy who wants her.
Carly Redd made a promise to herself to never get involved with another firefighter. Not after that tragic night that caused all her fears to come true. Now, Carly’s focused on expanding her ice cream business and creating new ice cream flavours. However, her past is back in the form of her ex, and to make matters worse, he’s engaged and throwing an engagement party. Carly has to attend, but going without a date is a sure way to get people talking.
Noah Harding knows there is a rule set in place between the firefighters, never flirt or date the Chief’s daughter. That rule goes out the door when he agrees to fake date Carly Redd, at least until the party.
Getting Carly to trust Noah is like a wildfire that can’t be put out, but Carly knows that Noah won’t stop until he has her trust. Everyone knows Noah is the fire to her ice, but it’s up to Carly to open her heart and take the step she promised never to take again.
My Review:
(Thank you to the NetGalley team for allowing me to read this ARC!)
I always love a story involving firefighters, and Cherry Red was no exception! 😍
I loved the concept of the story, and I even enjoyed the personalities of the two main characters, Noah and Carly. As for the side-characters, I did find it disappointing that they didn’t get involved in the story as much as I hoped they would, they always add a certain depth to a book that makes it more immersive! 🤗
The two main characters definitely had chemistry between them, but the relationship escalated rather quickly. It would’ve been a bit more realistic if their relationship had more time to develop and grow that would have created a deeper connection, even for the reader.
I still loved the story though! There was definite potential in this book, and I liked Darlene Fredette’s writing style! My eyes will be open to other books by Darlene Fredette!
I would recommend this book to those who love fast reads, insta-love, and a bit of romance! 💛
My Rating: 2.5/5 ✨
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews