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Fire Company 143 #2

Through the Fire

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Fallon Lennox isn’t looking for love—especially not in Lovey's Bay, her new home and fresh start.

Captain Benjamin Deacon is ready to move on from a broken engagement and take a leap of faith.

When Fallon joins Fire Company 143 as its newest firefighter, she and Deacon are stunned to discover their paths have crossed before. But while Deacon is ready to embrace the flames of possibility, Fallon is determined to douse them, insisting she’s not interested in commitment—especially with her new captain.

As they navigate the firestorm of their undeniable chemistry and professional boundaries, will Fallon and Deacon find a way to meet in the middle? Or will fear and missteps turn their chance at love to ashes?

326 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 6, 2025

144 people are currently reading
451 people want to read

About the author

Danielle Brooks

16 books137 followers

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5 stars
166 (51%)
4 stars
121 (37%)
3 stars
35 (10%)
2 stars
1 (<1%)
1 star
1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Profile Image for MJ.
325 reviews22 followers
August 21, 2025
Ok now this story was spicey and sweet! I loveeee Deacon and Fallon together. I really enjoyed reading Deacons side of the story regarding his past relationship with Vanessa ( I did not know that these characters crossed over into other series and I love that!!!)
Profile Image for Vonetta Evans.
378 reviews14 followers
September 9, 2025
After going through a breakup, Deacon is trying to get back into the dating scene and Fallon is just looking to have fun but after running into each other a few times, Deacon knew when he saw her again her had to make his move and he did. They had the heat going in this one from the beginning and it didn't fizzle out even after they found out they were working together. That being said it was more that a sexual connection with them and there was something about Fallon that made Deacon want to know her more and spend more time with her.

Dealing with the situations in her past with her ex Fallon's heart was a little closed off but Deacon slowly chipped away at the ice she had there until he was able to get all the way in and show her he was nothing like her ex and never would be. There was some drama that arose with these two but I was happy they were able to move past it and the advice the Deacon's parents gave to both him and her helped them move forward in their relationship as well as a strong united front.

They both found each other at the right point in their lives and there was no delay on Deacon's part that his head and heart aligned to confirm Fallon was the one for him. This had a nice storyline and a good amount of spice as well.
Profile Image for Monique B..
203 reviews12 followers
March 2, 2025
Wooo! I was not ready for the heat in this one! 🥵.

This is a second chance + workplace romance that involves Deacon & Fallon. Fallon has her reasons for putting a wall up due to a controlling ex & familial trauma. She is headstrong & stubborn as she struggles to keep the "superwoman" facade while casually dating in Lovey Sorings. Deacon is fresh out of an engagement-gone-south & juggles with whether finding his true love is a possibility or if it will be another mishap.

I loved the chemistry between Deacon and Fallon. It was realistic and sexy. I was giggling & blushing while reading 🤭. The whole firefighter/ fire/ heat theme was well played throughout the scenes 🥵. Deacon is definitely book boyfriend material!

Even with the heat turned up, their relationship is realistic. Even their co-workers at the fire station & friends come across as well rounded! They are a chill group who joke around a lot, have group gatherings, enjoy a bit of gossip here & there- you know, real friendship.

This is my first read by Danielle Brooks and definitely won't be the last!

Thank you to Danielle Brooks for the eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.❤️
Profile Image for Ebony | whatebonyreads.
142 reviews14 followers
March 4, 2025
“I know you're afraid of what you feel. You still need time to heal. And I can help if you'll only let me try.”
*Through The Fire* - Chaka Khan

After a horrendous breakup, Fallon moved to Lovey’s Bay, looking for a fresh start and a life that was “light & easy.” After a disappointing ending to his two-year engagement, Benjamin, aka Deacon, never thought he’d find someone to bring joy back into his life. However, a chance encounter at a speed dating event would be the spark that changed everything for both of them.

This is the second book in the Fire Company 143 series, and I loved Deacon and Fallon's journey! It was wonderful to see Fallon open her heart again after being hurt. Don’t get me started on her mother and no good ex-fiancé. You’ll have to read the book for those details.

I will always give props to a man who isn't afraid to love his woman out loud, and Big Daddy Deacon is definitely that man!!!
Profile Image for bryonnnnnnnaaa.
44 reviews
March 5, 2025
Ughhh I forgot how much I missed the Lovey's Bay crew. I always enjoy Danielle Brooks' books, and this one was no exception. I honestly expected the next story in this series to be Joni and Tevin's, but it's okay. I'm gonna keep holding out for them. I loved that we still got see and experience them, as well as Nina and Denzel, in more than a small way in this story.

Fallon is a strong, independent woman who was recently reminded of these things. She's just moved to Lovey's Bay in an attempt to regain what she'd lost and take back control of life. Deacon is...well Deacon. We grew to love him for his unc status and jokester tendencies in Smoke Signals, but here we see him reeling from a major rejection. Fallon and Deacon are both rebounding from something--taking things light and easy if you will. Their plans are going well until they stumble into one another. Their chemistry is anything BUT light and easy! How will they navigate this newfound interest in one another when they find out they have to work together with Deacon as Fallon's superior???

Danielle Brooks always does an amazing job at conveying well-rounded characters. She creates sisterhood and brotherhood so well for these characters and gives them a support system beyond their romantic relationship. Additionally, I love how dynamic Fallon and Deacon are. One's shortcomings fit like perfect puzzle pieces into the other's strengths, and vice versa. It is very obvious throughout the story that they are what the other so desperately needs, both in and out of the work place. Brooks does a great job of revealing this all to us in the same way that the characters seemed to learn it.

The one small issue I had, and this only came towards the end, is that I feel like there was an unresolved character line.

All in all, I loved getting to peek in on the Lovey's Bay universe that I'm sure is carrying on in another dimension somewhere. Thank you so much to Danielle Brooks for the opportunity to read and review an ARC of this book!
Profile Image for Shanae.
690 reviews18 followers
April 29, 2025
Through The Fire (Fire Company 143 Book 2) by Danielle Brooks is a fast-paced, lighthearted romance novel with some solid character development. When I finished book 1 of the Fire Company 143 series called Smoke Signals, I was excited to learn more about Joni and Tevin, another couple that makes an appearance in the series. I never really considered that Brooks would give us a book about Fire Captain Benjamin Deacon so early in the series, but she did and I'm grateful for it.

Even though there are some lengthy and wordy parts that I found myself skipping (sorry), the story is well-written, I found myself responding sentimentally to the emotional parts and I found myself laughing at the funny parts. I was engaged in the characters throughout the book (for the most part).

That said, I still enjoyed the book and if there are more books in the series, I will definitely read those, too. Lovey's Bay is officially one of my favorite fictitious small towns.

Final rating: 3.5/5 stars

Spice rating: 2/5 stars

Content warnings:
Graphic: Cursing, Sexual content
Moderate: Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Misogyny, Abandonment
Minor: Infidelity, Fire/Fire injury, Alcohol, Injury/Injury detail
Profile Image for Darcy J..
339 reviews
March 3, 2025
4.5⭐️ and 3🌶️

We're back with the firefighters and honestly, they're my favorite group. Deacon and Fallon really stole my heart and Deacon actually bumped Parris to number 2 for my favorite Greenbrook book bae.

Deacon and Fallon encounter each other by way of a middle finger and a speed dating night before realizing Fallon is the newest member of the 143 Firestation in Lovey's Bay.
These two have chemistry out of this world! I love their first hang out and the way they navigated getting to know each other in addition to balancing their relationships with their friends and work. It was balanced, grown, and they communicated well. Even when they didn't, they didn't let the miscommunication linger a long time and communicated like the adults we are. We love a couple who communicates!

I really enjoyed my time with Deacon, Fallon, and crew. The girl group is my favorite so far and I hope each friend gets a book because the setup has me wanting more.I hope you all check this one out on release day but be sure to read Smoke Signals before this one for a better character experience!
Profile Image for CheKesha Simms.
62 reviews
February 26, 2025
Danielle Brooks does it again!!! Through the Fire which is book 2 in the Fire Company #143 series was just as good if not better!!!

This second chance, strangers to lovers contemporay romance was chef’s kiss.

The FMM Fallon looking to start over emotional and in her career in a new city & the MMC Deacon looking to start over after being dumped by his fiancé was a perfect combination.

The character building & cross over in this book was perfection. I loved that the focus was on the 2 main characters but we also go an update on some of our other favorite fire couples as well as an update on Tinsley & Parris (Parris is also Fallon’s brother)

I would definitely recommend you read at least book one just to follow the story line but you don’t have to.

10/10 recommendations
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Profile Image for Chanel.
470 reviews6 followers
March 3, 2025
Deacon is my new book bae for 2025!

Deacon & Fallon had me engaged from the beginning to the epilogue!
I dreamed for the chemistry these two had. I want that someday. I just felt like Deacon was this amazing man who knew how to love the right woman. He was a walking green flag…

I absolutely loved this book.
The spice was spicy & I loved it! Gave me all the vibes!

This story had me in my feelings for certain parts. I really felt for Fallon with her past relationship and the relationship with her mother. She deserves all the proper loving from Deacon!

I didn’t read the first book but honestly I didn’t even notice anything confusing or anything.

I highly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Mel.
38 reviews
March 3, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed and loved everything about this book, such a cuteeeee love story 🥰❣️And might I add extra spicy‼️🌶️🥵😭

I found a new author I love🫶🏾
Profile Image for Jerrica (Mrsmar10Reads) Martin .
1,698 reviews10 followers
March 11, 2025
Deacon!!!

Deacon and Tevin were comic relief in Denzel's book, but seeing him in the aftermath of the break up with Vanessa was a little sad as we see in the beginning of this book. Meeting Hazel/Fallon was the beacon of light he needed. He asked the Big Man to do his thang, and he came through. Fallon wanted no parts of a relationship, but here comes Deacon tearing down ALL HER WALLS! He literally had this woman in conversations with herself because not only did she have feelings for this man, she was his subordinate now. So, now she is navigating a new life, new city, a newjob, and hiding a relationship with her boss. These two had to navigate some pretty tricky waters, but they not only got it together, Deacon also realized that he didn't need 2 years in an engagement and Daddy Deacon hurried up and put a ring on it.

I really liked the new additions to the crew, and I loved how intentional Deacon was with Fallon. The only thing I can say is what happened to Travis? He came through and stirred up trouble and dropped off the face of the earth! I wonder who's next?🤔 Happy Reading Y'all!💋
Profile Image for Nakia.
155 reviews1 follower
March 29, 2025
First of all this book needs a content warning for physical abuse. I enjoyed it though. Lots of interesting names for reproductive organs used but thankfully never read “my love below”. This couple was fun to read & even though the book was sex heavy I do believe they fell in love outside of sex. I enjoyed seeing the epilogue of the previous book from a different POV here

I feel like the Travis topic was just kinda dropped especially with him moving to lovely bay would have been a huge deal & also did Fallon work on her relationship with her mother after talking to Ms. Lillie? And I want to know how the relationship played out at work ultimately.

I wonder if we’ll get a Joni & Tevin FWB to lovers book. I’m not gonna lie I don’t really care to see Maxwell & Zaria’s book but that’s because I’m not a fan of age gap romances. Who I am dying for a book from is joss. I’d love to see an FF romance amongst all of this
Profile Image for readandtellwithshantel.
235 reviews7 followers
March 7, 2025
Through the Fire
Danielle Brooks

Big Mama Big Mama Big Mama…..

Fallon is a woman on a mission to establish her own identity in a new place. She wants the opportunity to live a life for herself. She’s having fun doing what single women do 🤫. She’s a liberated woman.

Out of no where, Benjamin crashes into her life, literally. With multiple chance encounters, the two can’t fight fate. Why fight the feeling?

@daniellebrookswrites doesn’t miss when she conveys the rawness love. Both main characters are embarking on isolated journeys that connect them intimately.

One thing is for sure Benjamin isn’t playing about Fallon. He’s willing to risk more than his heart to have the opportunity of a lifetime with her.

Happy Release @daniellebrookswrites

#readandtellwithshantel #romance #blackromance #firefighterlove #daniellebrooks#smalltownromance
Profile Image for Angie.
152 reviews7 followers
April 2, 2025
Omgggg!!!!! Deacon & Hazel…or should I say Fallon gave me all the feels! 🥰 I mean from that first encounter on the sidewalk to the ending, I couldn’t get enough of them.

On top of that, the depth behind their individual stories, more particular Fallon’s really resonated. Fallon was in a bad situation, which is how she ended up in Lovey’s Bay and was extremely guarded. She just wanted something “light and easy!” BUT DEACON! He loved her down and showed her how invested and safe she was without forcing her or turning her into somebody she wasn’t—the perfect book bae!!!

I would have loved an epilogue with an update on her and her mother and Travis and his political future in Lovey’s Bay. I was hoping she may have shared her story and embarrassed him so badly to the point he left.

Either way, I absolutely loved this book. 💕
Profile Image for K_Clear22.
196 reviews3 followers
April 7, 2025
I have to say… I REALLY liked this book. Danielle was able to capture both the strength of our FMC and MMC without minimizing who their qualities as characters. Deacon and Fallon truly balanced each other out. When a girl meets a REAL man she is able to go into that soft girl era and truly be herself. What I liked the most about this book was that Danielle gave us a realistic view of bravery and fear in one character. Fallon was the epitome of strength, but also the symbol of a woman have walls up because of what she experienced. Deacon brought those walls down by showing up for her and allowing her to be herself with him by her side. This book was well written and definitely can be relatable to real life. I love how Danielle brought in the experiences of what’s it’s like to be firefighter/first responder. Even though this is book #2 it definitely sealed the deal for me.
Profile Image for Bookedupwithsayde.
187 reviews8 followers
August 20, 2025
Big Daddy Deacon

Big Daddy Deacon completely stole the show for me in book two! I wasn't sure about him in the first book, but this one gave him so much depth, and I fell in love with his character. Fallon has been my girl from the beginning, and while I understand the trauma she carried, there were definitely moments where I wanted to shake some sense into her. Thankfully, she finally learned what true love feels like, and that growth was beautiful to see.

I also loved that Nina and Denzel got their moment and we were able to catch up on their life together it was the perfect touch. Overall, this book did justice to the characters, gave us closure where it was needed, and left me completely satisfied.

🤎
Profile Image for Shamoya Radcliffe.
270 reviews11 followers
March 10, 2025
if you are looking for a black firefighter romance definitely check this one out. This story follows the FMC Fallon who was in an abusive relationship and has moved to a small town to get a fresh start, and the MMC who was in a long-term relationship which ended in the engagement being called off and is now trying to put himself back out there to see if he is ready to date again. after a love is blind type speed dating event, an instant attacking, and one unforgettable night, come to find out both will be working at the same fire station, and the MMC is her fire captain. you get to see what happens next, how they navigate their work relationship etc. I loved big daddy Deacon and how he kept showing up for Fallon when she needed someone or was trying to do it all as a hyperindependent female. the spice was spicing I enjoyed it and a must read.
4 reviews
May 14, 2025
I’d give it 6 stars

The male protagonist, Deacon, is a standout character whose balance of strength, self-awareness, faith, and bravery is truly inspiring. His steadfast love and dedication to Fallon from the very beginning is remarkable and adds depth to the story.

Both Fallon and Deacon are portrayed with a perfect blend of strengths and weaknesses, making them feel incredibly real and relatable. Their journey together is both heartwarming and engaging, showcasing the beauty of vulnerability alongside resilience. Danielle Brooks has crafted a story that resonates deeply, leaving a lasting impression.
Profile Image for Brisace.
527 reviews
February 28, 2025
A huge round of applause for Danielle Brooks! This book was absolutely phenomenal. The chemistry between Fallon and Deacon is the stuff dreams are made of. From the very first page to the last, I found myself unable to put it down. This story beautifully highlights the idea that it’s perfectly okay to not have everything figured out. When you meet that special someone who makes you feel completely at ease—someone who encourages you to let go of your burdens and just be yourself—treasure that love. Don’t let your mind dictate how your heart truly feels!
Profile Image for Ashley Woodley.
19 reviews22 followers
March 7, 2025
This book was absolutely adorable!!! Daddy Deacon and Big Mama Fallon were definitely destined to meet. Seeing how each were recently out of relationships, one looking for fun and a new job in a new city and the other looking for more than a distraction from his failed engagement. Their attraction to one another was sizzling from the speed blind date to finding out Daddy Deacon is her superior at the fire station! This novel was definitely a great time to be had, I was cheesing throughout this book like I was Big Mama herself. But this now or move it up your tbr!!! Thank me later!!!
12 reviews1 follower
August 2, 2025
This was a cute and fun summer read! I enjoyed both main characters separately but even more together. Captain Deacon aka Big Daddy Deacon fulfilled all my firefighter fantasies lol

The author did a good job of developing the undeniable attraction that blossomed between Fallon and Deacon. Very grown and sexy with just enough conflict to keep the story entertaining. I loved the fire rescue scenes that were also infused with Deacon’s love and protection of Fallon.

I melted every time Deacon called Fallon Big Mama 😮‍💨💕
Profile Image for Smoke.
138 reviews1 follower
March 10, 2025
Deacon deacon DECONNNN😩‼️🔥

What can I say ?! My list of book boyfriends is GROWING 😩😂

I appreciated the kind of woman Fallon was in this story!! Cause PERIOD ! A bad B! A BOSS ok?!!

I loved this steamy and intimate read. The unfolding of two ppl falling in love had me teary eyed and I LOVED the humor in this read as well!!! I LOOOOVE a second chance romance !! Also loved having another look into Nina's & Denzel's romance again too 🫂♥️

4.6 !
Profile Image for Cel.
370 reviews10 followers
July 4, 2025
Spicy sweet heartwarming

Loved Fallon & Deacon love story. The characters were relatable and believable. I loved the friendships among the ladies and the vulnerability Fallon showed with Deacon and Deacon as well I liked how he held himself accountable for the ending of his relationship with Vanessa. The chemistry and the spice was on point overall this was a great read looking forward to reading book 3
Profile Image for Candace Munoz.
419 reviews4 followers
February 8, 2026
4 stars ⭐️

Welp Deac and Nessa didnt work out, but I understand the concept the author was trying to say about men dragging their feet. I am glad Vanessa left Deacon. I am happy that Deacon was able to find happiness with Fallon. I love the HEA.

Quote: “I love that you are Superwoman, but you ain’t gotta wear your cape all the time with me around, and you for damn sure don’t need to ask another man.”
Profile Image for Jess A Phoenix Rising.
44 reviews2 followers
August 17, 2025
I really enjoyed book 1 with Nina and Denzel, but Fallon and Deacon's story in book 2 has stolen my heart! May a love like theirs find me soon! My favorite line of the book... My name is Deacon, but I'm a demon about this one! Yaaasss Deacon!!! Protect your woman!!! I can't wait to get book 3 on 9/5/25!
13 reviews
March 8, 2025
You did it again Ms. Brooks!

Another beautiful love story to give the people hope for a love of their own. Deacon & Fallon had me cheesin, giggling and swooning the whole book. We all need a love like this!
Profile Image for Danielle Wilson.
175 reviews3 followers
April 16, 2025
Cute, romance read. It's always a plus for me when a man isn't afraid to show his woman love, care, and protection. It was nice to see the update on the couple's life from book 1. I know a 3rd book is on the way!
Profile Image for Misty .
42 reviews
January 14, 2026
Great read

I was hesitant to read this book after reading the first one, but I'm glad I did. Deacon and Fallon's journey was a great love story with a lot of laughs. In this book we get to experience the serious side of Deacon and discover that he's a great guy.
Profile Image for Leah.
815 reviews
March 10, 2025
4.5⭐️ I really enjoyed this book 🫶 it was so sweet and fun! Def can’t wait to read again
Profile Image for Ambra | ambreadbooks.
450 reviews19 followers
March 29, 2025
4/5 ⭐️
— I think Deacon has earned a place on my book boyfriend list. I really enjoyed Deacon and Fallons love story a little more than Denzel and Nina’s.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews

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