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Code Red
She lost a cat. He found his forever.
I've been a good girl my whole life.
Followed the rules. Obeyed my father. Kept my head down and my heart locked up tight.
One day in Wildwood Valley changed everything.
It started with a cat. A diabetic escape artist named Snowball who bolted from my clinic on my very first day flying solo. Desperate and panicking, I ran to the fire station next door for help.
I didn't expect to find a man in nothing but black boxer briefs, singing into a spatula like he owned the world.
Devon Carlisle was grumpy, gorgeous, and completely off-limits. A rugged construction foreman with callused hands and a volunteer firefighter's heart. He had no business looking at me the way he did—like I was trouble he wanted to get into.
I had no business letting him.
But somewhere between chasing that cat through the woods and sharing drinks at the new honky-tonk in town, I stopped being the pastor's dutiful daughter. I stopped playing it safe.
I started playing with fire.
Code Red is a short and steamy instalove romance set in the small mountain town of Wildwood Valley, North Carolina. This 1-hour read is part of the Side Hustle series. If you like short, steamy instalove novellas, you’ll love the entire Side Hustle series!
About the
From broke beginnings to business dreams, the real hustle begins after hours. Whether it’s garage startups or late-night gigs, these blue-collar heroes and heroines are chasing goals bigger than the next bill. When love throws them a curveball, they learn that building a future means risking their hearts.
Side Hustle is a multi-author series of short, steamy instalove stories with guaranteed happily-ever-afters. Each one delivers open-door heat, real-world grit, and chemistry that burns hotter after midnight.
I've been a good girl my whole life.
Followed the rules. Obeyed my father. Kept my head down and my heart locked up tight.
One day in Wildwood Valley changed everything.
It started with a cat. A diabetic escape artist named Snowball who bolted from my clinic on my very first day flying solo. Desperate and panicking, I ran to the fire station next door for help.
I didn't expect to find a man in nothing but black boxer briefs, singing into a spatula like he owned the world.
Devon Carlisle was grumpy, gorgeous, and completely off-limits. A rugged construction foreman with callused hands and a volunteer firefighter's heart. He had no business looking at me the way he did—like I was trouble he wanted to get into.
I had no business letting him.
But somewhere between chasing that cat through the woods and sharing drinks at the new honky-tonk in town, I stopped being the pastor's dutiful daughter. I stopped playing it safe.
I started playing with fire.
Code Red is a short and steamy instalove romance set in the small mountain town of Wildwood Valley, North Carolina. This 1-hour read is part of the Side Hustle series. If you like short, steamy instalove novellas, you’ll love the entire Side Hustle series!
About the
From broke beginnings to business dreams, the real hustle begins after hours. Whether it’s garage startups or late-night gigs, these blue-collar heroes and heroines are chasing goals bigger than the next bill. When love throws them a curveball, they learn that building a future means risking their hearts.
Side Hustle is a multi-author series of short, steamy instalove stories with guaranteed happily-ever-afters. Each one delivers open-door heat, real-world grit, and chemistry that burns hotter after midnight.
46 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 6, 2026
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6 people want to read
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Review of advance copy received from Author
A spark ignites into a flaming passion.
Rylie is the veterinary technician at Dr. Hanson's vet clinic trailer next door to the huge new fire hall. She's operating the clinic alone today for the first time while Dr. Hanson is at a conference. One of the patients, a diabetic cat named Snowball, has escaped from the clinic. She's searched the clinic and has looked outdoors for the cat with no success. There are so many trees in the area where Snowball could be hiding. When she looks at the fire station, she gets an idea. Firemen are known for rescuing cats from trees, and Snowball could be in a tree. So she heads off to ask for help.
The back door is closer to where she's at, but she's afraid it may be wired with an alarm that will go off if the door is opened. She can imagine the local newspaper headlines if that should happen. When she enters the station, the garage bay is empty. Everyone is out on a run. But then she hears a voice and walks towards it. As she walks into the kitchen, there's a man frying bacon. His back is towards her; he's clad only in black boxer briefs, using a spatula as a microphone while belting out a song and doing a shimmy. He whirls around when he hears her and immediately grabs a kitchen towel to hold in front of himself. Too little, too late.
Devon has been a volunteer firefighter for eight years. Otherwise he works construction. Wildwood Valley recently received funding to hire its first professional fire crew of seven men. Until the new fire captain arrives, he was tapped to help train the newbies even though he has no desire to do so. But someone has to show them the mountain roads, where to locate water sources, and the areas of poor-to-no cell phone service.
The crew had gone out for beers, but he stayed behind for some peace and quiet. Instead, he's now tramping through the woods looking for a cat. How someone can misplace a cat, he'd like to know.
After Snowball is finally captured, he asks her if she'd care to join him for a drink at the recently opened honky-tonk in town. When she accepts, he mentally repeats to himself, "It's not a date; it's not a date."
There's something Devon doesn't know about her. She's the pastor's daughter: the quintessential good girl. Yet she's seen him clad only in his boxer briefs. A couple of margaritas have caused her to tell him about her father. Her father has always been extremely involved in her life and telling her what to do or not to do. She didn't date in high school or college, or even now. She lives at home and attended a nearby Christian university. Her entire life has been monitored from a church office. A boy once kissed her after church, and she was banned from youth group for a month. She'd like to move to Wildwood Valley but can't yet afford to. Rent in the area has skyrocketed, but she needs to get out of her father's house.
Then she tells him that she'd like to see those tight black boxer briefs again. And she'd love a ride in a fire truck before they head to his place...
I received an ARC of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Rylie is the veterinary technician at Dr. Hanson's vet clinic trailer next door to the huge new fire hall. She's operating the clinic alone today for the first time while Dr. Hanson is at a conference. One of the patients, a diabetic cat named Snowball, has escaped from the clinic. She's searched the clinic and has looked outdoors for the cat with no success. There are so many trees in the area where Snowball could be hiding. When she looks at the fire station, she gets an idea. Firemen are known for rescuing cats from trees, and Snowball could be in a tree. So she heads off to ask for help.
The back door is closer to where she's at, but she's afraid it may be wired with an alarm that will go off if the door is opened. She can imagine the local newspaper headlines if that should happen. When she enters the station, the garage bay is empty. Everyone is out on a run. But then she hears a voice and walks towards it. As she walks into the kitchen, there's a man frying bacon. His back is towards her; he's clad only in black boxer briefs, using a spatula as a microphone while belting out a song and doing a shimmy. He whirls around when he hears her and immediately grabs a kitchen towel to hold in front of himself. Too little, too late.
Devon has been a volunteer firefighter for eight years. Otherwise he works construction. Wildwood Valley recently received funding to hire its first professional fire crew of seven men. Until the new fire captain arrives, he was tapped to help train the newbies even though he has no desire to do so. But someone has to show them the mountain roads, where to locate water sources, and the areas of poor-to-no cell phone service.
The crew had gone out for beers, but he stayed behind for some peace and quiet. Instead, he's now tramping through the woods looking for a cat. How someone can misplace a cat, he'd like to know.
After Snowball is finally captured, he asks her if she'd care to join him for a drink at the recently opened honky-tonk in town. When she accepts, he mentally repeats to himself, "It's not a date; it's not a date."
There's something Devon doesn't know about her. She's the pastor's daughter: the quintessential good girl. Yet she's seen him clad only in his boxer briefs. A couple of margaritas have caused her to tell him about her father. Her father has always been extremely involved in her life and telling her what to do or not to do. She didn't date in high school or college, or even now. She lives at home and attended a nearby Christian university. Her entire life has been monitored from a church office. A boy once kissed her after church, and she was banned from youth group for a month. She'd like to move to Wildwood Valley but can't yet afford to. Rent in the area has skyrocketed, but she needs to get out of her father's house.
Then she tells him that she'd like to see those tight black boxer briefs again. And she'd love a ride in a fire truck before they head to his place...
I received an ARC of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
January 7, 2026
A runaway cat started it, but a wildfire kind of love kept it burning.
Rylie’s first solo day at the Wildwood Valley clinic goes off the rails when a diabetic cat makes a break for it and she ends up at the fire station next door asking for help. She expects a quick rescue, not a gorgeous firefighter in boxers belting out classic rock with a spatula mic, but Devon is impossible to ignore. What begins as chaos turns into chemistry, and one unexpected spark changes everything.
Devon likes his world steady and predictable, but Rylie’s messy charm hits him harder than any flame he’s fought. She’s shy but strong, innocent but fearless, and she makes him want more than just control. Together they stumble into something intense and real, learning that sometimes the right kind of fire doesn’t destroy, it transforms.
Love starts quietly and grows stronger once they stop resisting it. It’s a story about surrendering to desire, reclaiming your voice, and finding home in the person who sees every part of you.
Rylie starts as a rule-follower trying to hold everything together, but she learns to lead with her heart instead of her fear. Devon begins as a guarded loner who finds his edges softening in her light. What starts as awkward attraction grows into a bond built on honesty, vulnerability, and the kind of passion that feels both raw and safe.
A steamy, small town, instalove, grumpy sunshine, firefighter, mountain man, forced proximity romance that burns hot and tender while exploring self-discovery, desire and liberation, trust and vulnerability, transformation through connection, and reclaiming independence. It’s about a sheltered woman claiming her voice, a guarded man rediscovering tenderness, and two souls meeting at the exact moment they’re ready to change. It’s about freedom found through love, fear turned into strength, and forever beginning with one reckless heartbeat.
The Elevator Pitch: A runaway cat leads to a collision of nerves, heat, and undeniable chemistry between a sheltered vet tech and a gruff firefighter. What starts as a frantic search turns into a breathless unraveling of control, desire, and unexpected connection. It’s a quick, fiery escape into love that feels reckless, fated, and completely unstoppable.
Rylie’s first solo day at the Wildwood Valley clinic goes off the rails when a diabetic cat makes a break for it and she ends up at the fire station next door asking for help. She expects a quick rescue, not a gorgeous firefighter in boxers belting out classic rock with a spatula mic, but Devon is impossible to ignore. What begins as chaos turns into chemistry, and one unexpected spark changes everything.
Devon likes his world steady and predictable, but Rylie’s messy charm hits him harder than any flame he’s fought. She’s shy but strong, innocent but fearless, and she makes him want more than just control. Together they stumble into something intense and real, learning that sometimes the right kind of fire doesn’t destroy, it transforms.
Love starts quietly and grows stronger once they stop resisting it. It’s a story about surrendering to desire, reclaiming your voice, and finding home in the person who sees every part of you.
Rylie starts as a rule-follower trying to hold everything together, but she learns to lead with her heart instead of her fear. Devon begins as a guarded loner who finds his edges softening in her light. What starts as awkward attraction grows into a bond built on honesty, vulnerability, and the kind of passion that feels both raw and safe.
A steamy, small town, instalove, grumpy sunshine, firefighter, mountain man, forced proximity romance that burns hot and tender while exploring self-discovery, desire and liberation, trust and vulnerability, transformation through connection, and reclaiming independence. It’s about a sheltered woman claiming her voice, a guarded man rediscovering tenderness, and two souls meeting at the exact moment they’re ready to change. It’s about freedom found through love, fear turned into strength, and forever beginning with one reckless heartbeat.
The Elevator Pitch: A runaway cat leads to a collision of nerves, heat, and undeniable chemistry between a sheltered vet tech and a gruff firefighter. What starts as a frantic search turns into a breathless unraveling of control, desire, and unexpected connection. It’s a quick, fiery escape into love that feels reckless, fated, and completely unstoppable.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you are seeking a fast and delightful escape from everyday life, Code Red by Lilah Hart provides exactly that. From the beginning, the novelette presents memorable moments, lively dialogue, and dynamic interactions that keep you turning the pages. The chemistry between Riley and Devon is evident throughout, as their interactions are both authentic and heartfelt.
Code Red offers a blend of sweetness and romance on the path to a happily-ever-after. As the second installment in the Side Hustle series, it maintains the high standard set by its predecessor. Riley, characterized by her slightly quirky nature and limited romantic experience due to a strict upbringing, displays sincere emotion. Devon, meanwhile, is depicted as kind, reliable, and supportive, complementing Riley's personality.
The narrative begins with an incident involving an escaped cat, which introduces a hilarious initial meeting between the Riley and Devon. Riley, a veterinary technician, seeks assistance in locating Snowball and encounters Devon, a volunteer fireman. Their meeting is a meet-WOW, enlivened by vivid and comedic writing.
As the story continues, Rylie becomes more forthcoming after sharing drinks with Devon, leading to bold comments and confessions that leave Devon eager for private time with Riley. Their chemistry culminates after a joyride in a firetruck—delightfully spicy!
The story wraps up with two bonus epilogues that are simply “chef’s kiss.” They left me feeling absolutely giddy and oh, so happy. I highly recommend Code Red for those who love short, sweet and steamy novelettes.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Code Red offers a blend of sweetness and romance on the path to a happily-ever-after. As the second installment in the Side Hustle series, it maintains the high standard set by its predecessor. Riley, characterized by her slightly quirky nature and limited romantic experience due to a strict upbringing, displays sincere emotion. Devon, meanwhile, is depicted as kind, reliable, and supportive, complementing Riley's personality.
The narrative begins with an incident involving an escaped cat, which introduces a hilarious initial meeting between the Riley and Devon. Riley, a veterinary technician, seeks assistance in locating Snowball and encounters Devon, a volunteer fireman. Their meeting is a meet-WOW, enlivened by vivid and comedic writing.
As the story continues, Rylie becomes more forthcoming after sharing drinks with Devon, leading to bold comments and confessions that leave Devon eager for private time with Riley. Their chemistry culminates after a joyride in a firetruck—delightfully spicy!
The story wraps up with two bonus epilogues that are simply “chef’s kiss.” They left me feeling absolutely giddy and oh, so happy. I highly recommend Code Red for those who love short, sweet and steamy novelettes.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 6, 2026
Rylie is tired and she is freaking out because she lost a cat on her first solo day running the veterinarian clinic. She is looking for Snowball, all over the place, finally, she notices that there is a Firehouse nearby, so she goes there, since firefighters save cats. She thinks she is going to get fired, especially as she lost Mrs. Porter’s diabetic cat at Dr. Hanson’s clinic. At the firehouse, she finds one, dancing at the stove, singing as he cooks in boxers. Technically, Devon, is the volunteer firefighter, helping to train the new full timer rookies that came on. So he gets dressed and he is in charge until the new fire captain arrives. From there on out it gets funnier, Snowball is a bit naughty. Afterwards, they decide to get a drink at the Wildwood Ridge Roadhouse. She gets to meet Mason, Conner, Hux, and the waitress Gabby. They talk. They leave together. Then things get hilarious and steamy. Devon knows that Rylie is the one for him. She is a bit freaked out afterwards. The guys are hilarious and love to razz each other. Devon & Rylie are cute and sweet together. I loved it. Especially, the end. I can’t wait to see the rest of the rookies fall in love.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 6, 2026
Code Red is one of those stories that grabs you by the collar from page one and says, “Trust me.” What starts as a frantic search for a runaway diabetic cat turns into a one-day whirlwind that somehow feels both chaotic and oddly grounded. Snowball may be the escape artist, but Devon and Rylie are the ones who really break free—of expectations, routines, and the boxes they’ve been living in.
Rylie’s journey from rule-following pastor’s daughter to a woman finally choosing herself felt genuine and relatable, especially given how short this story is. Devon is pure grumpy charm—rough around the edges, unexpectedly soft where it counts, and impossible not to picture clearly (the fire station introduction alone made me laugh out loud). Their chemistry sparks fast, but it doesn’t feel hollow; it feels like two people recognizing something they didn’t know they were missing.
This novella is fun, flirty, and surprisingly heartfelt. It delivers exactly what it promises: small-town charm, quick-burn romance, and a satisfying happily-ever-after that doesn’t overstay its welcome. If you enjoy instalove with personality, humor, and a meet-cute that truly earns the name, Code Red is an easy, enjoyable win.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Rylie’s journey from rule-following pastor’s daughter to a woman finally choosing herself felt genuine and relatable, especially given how short this story is. Devon is pure grumpy charm—rough around the edges, unexpectedly soft where it counts, and impossible not to picture clearly (the fire station introduction alone made me laugh out loud). Their chemistry sparks fast, but it doesn’t feel hollow; it feels like two people recognizing something they didn’t know they were missing.
This novella is fun, flirty, and surprisingly heartfelt. It delivers exactly what it promises: small-town charm, quick-burn romance, and a satisfying happily-ever-after that doesn’t overstay its welcome. If you enjoy instalove with personality, humor, and a meet-cute that truly earns the name, Code Red is an easy, enjoyable win.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 8, 2026
Rylie is a sheltered woman claiming her voice and her life. She is a vet tech working on her own for the first time when a cat decides to escape and she cant seem to find Snowball no matter where she looks. She is right next door to the new fire house so of course she goes over there to seek help. When she enters it appears that everyone is gone but she hears singing. She follows the singing to find Devon frying bacon in nothing but a pair of black boxer briefs doing a shimmy. What a first encounter indeed.
Devon agrees to help her found Snowball. Once the cat is found he invites Rylie for a drink. That drink leads to a ride in the fire truck and a very interesting hot time. But will it also lead to Rylie freaking out and running or will Devon be able to convience her that he is going to be there for her?
I absolutely loved this steamy small town instalove forced proximity romance that burns hot and tender. It is about exploring self discovery and learning trust and vulnerability. A love that starts very quickly but grows so very strong once they stop fighting it and realize what it right there. This is a part of the Side Hustle multi-author series and an absolute amazing read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Devon agrees to help her found Snowball. Once the cat is found he invites Rylie for a drink. That drink leads to a ride in the fire truck and a very interesting hot time. But will it also lead to Rylie freaking out and running or will Devon be able to convience her that he is going to be there for her?
I absolutely loved this steamy small town instalove forced proximity romance that burns hot and tender. It is about exploring self discovery and learning trust and vulnerability. A love that starts very quickly but grows so very strong once they stop fighting it and realize what it right there. This is a part of the Side Hustle multi-author series and an absolute amazing read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love from a Wild and Wonderful Meet Cute Encounter -
The first time Rylie laid eyes on Devon he was partially dressed, which set her body on fire, but it was more important for her to seek help from him. Devon found himself asking Rylie out on a date before his brain caught up with his mouth and this led to them spending time getting to know each other. However, Rylie made a request whilst they were drinking, that turned their first date into a more than drinks.
Unfortunately, everything changed after Rylie and Devon enjoyed a mind blowing steamy encounter, as she started spiralling considered the potential consequences to their actions, but his reaction wasn’t what she exactly expected. As luck would hav3 it, Devon not only declared his intentions, but followed through by ensuring they got the happily ever after they deserved. This is really enjoyable spicy novella with a small town vibe is about how the swoonworthy firefighter and the curvy woman instantly connected. You won’t be disappointed if you take a chance and read this book.
I received a free review copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
The first time Rylie laid eyes on Devon he was partially dressed, which set her body on fire, but it was more important for her to seek help from him. Devon found himself asking Rylie out on a date before his brain caught up with his mouth and this led to them spending time getting to know each other. However, Rylie made a request whilst they were drinking, that turned their first date into a more than drinks.
Unfortunately, everything changed after Rylie and Devon enjoyed a mind blowing steamy encounter, as she started spiralling considered the potential consequences to their actions, but his reaction wasn’t what she exactly expected. As luck would hav3 it, Devon not only declared his intentions, but followed through by ensuring they got the happily ever after they deserved. This is really enjoyable spicy novella with a small town vibe is about how the swoonworthy firefighter and the curvy woman instantly connected. You won’t be disappointed if you take a chance and read this book.
I received a free review copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 8, 2026
This small-town firefighter romance fully leans into the insta-love trope—and it does so unapologetically. It’s light, fast-paced, and almost reads like a rom-com in book form, which makes it a lovely choice when you’re in the mood for something fun and low-stress.
The story is short and sweet, perfect as a quick read in between heavier books. The chemistry sparks instantly, the small-town vibe adds charm, and the romance unfolds in a playful, feel-good way without overcomplicating things. One of the more amusing touches is a bit of alcohol-induced oversharing, which feels surprisingly relatable and adds to the humor rather than detracting from the story.
This isn’t a book that tries to reinvent the genre—and it doesn’t need to. It knows exactly what it wants to be: a cozy, quick, and entertaining romance that leaves you smiling. If you enjoy insta-love, small towns, and firefighter heroes, this one definitely delivers.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story is short and sweet, perfect as a quick read in between heavier books. The chemistry sparks instantly, the small-town vibe adds charm, and the romance unfolds in a playful, feel-good way without overcomplicating things. One of the more amusing touches is a bit of alcohol-induced oversharing, which feels surprisingly relatable and adds to the humor rather than detracting from the story.
This isn’t a book that tries to reinvent the genre—and it doesn’t need to. It knows exactly what it wants to be: a cozy, quick, and entertaining romance that leaves you smiling. If you enjoy insta-love, small towns, and firefighter heroes, this one definitely delivers.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The fire station in Wildwood Valley is newly established, and as the volunteer part-time firefighter of the town, Devon is at the station to help them with the set up. Riley is the vet tech working in the clinic next to the station, and is frantic because she lost a cat, and goes to look for some help when she finds Devon, shirtless in the station. They manage to find the cat but also now that they've spent some time together, sparks fly.
This book is the second book in the Side Hustle multi-author series, and with adorable characters that have so much chemistry. It is a short book that is a quick easy read and fun and entertaining to read. I have also been enjoying the author's Wildwood Valley Firehouse series so much, I highly recommend reading all of the books! I’m always excited to pick up one of her books and I always finish them grinning. Can't wait to read the next one!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is the second book in the Side Hustle multi-author series, and with adorable characters that have so much chemistry. It is a short book that is a quick easy read and fun and entertaining to read. I have also been enjoying the author's Wildwood Valley Firehouse series so much, I highly recommend reading all of the books! I’m always excited to pick up one of her books and I always finish them grinning. Can't wait to read the next one!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Code Red by Lilah Hart as a short steamy instalove romance is ideal for a breaktime read.
It has a well paced, down to earth and realistic storyline and is well written.
There is a definite feel good factor that had me hooked quickly especially with the comedy first meeting of the main characters at the firehouse.
Devon, the grumpy construction foreman and volunteer firefighter, and Riley the vet tech, determined, but, till now, had lived a sheltered life when it came to relationships, were both engaging as characters.
The missing cat, instant attraction and subsequent action give them the opportunity act on their chemistry for some page turning heat and spice.
Overall it was a short, entertaining read with a satisfying HEA that makes me look forward to reading more titles in the series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It has a well paced, down to earth and realistic storyline and is well written.
There is a definite feel good factor that had me hooked quickly especially with the comedy first meeting of the main characters at the firehouse.
Devon, the grumpy construction foreman and volunteer firefighter, and Riley the vet tech, determined, but, till now, had lived a sheltered life when it came to relationships, were both engaging as characters.
The missing cat, instant attraction and subsequent action give them the opportunity act on their chemistry for some page turning heat and spice.
Overall it was a short, entertaining read with a satisfying HEA that makes me look forward to reading more titles in the series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rylie is a vet tech who has recently started working for the town vet. When a cat escapes she is frantic to find it and when her attempts are unsuccessful she decides to ask her neighbor for help which is also the town fire hall. What she gets is an eyeful of Devon, the volunteer firefighter, and an interaction that doesn’t end when the cat is found.
Devon works construction and is a volunteer firefighter who has been tasked with training some new recruits. He was looking forward to some quiet time while the team went out to dinner when Rylie arrives at the door needing help.
Rylie has led a sheltered life, but she knows who she wants while Devon knows she is special and wants a future with her. The feelings between them were immediate and the chemistry between them intense.
Devon works construction and is a volunteer firefighter who has been tasked with training some new recruits. He was looking forward to some quiet time while the team went out to dinner when Rylie arrives at the door needing help.
Rylie has led a sheltered life, but she knows who she wants while Devon knows she is special and wants a future with her. The feelings between them were immediate and the chemistry between them intense.
January 4, 2026
Code Red
This was a very cute, funny, short spicy read.
Rylie is a preachers daughter and vet tech. She has been sheltered her entire life. On her first day of being solo at the vet clinic, snowball, a diabetic cat escapes.
After searching aimlessly for him she goes next door to the fire station to ask for help.
What she finds is a wall of muscles in nothing but black boxers singing.
Devon owns a construction company and is a volunteer firefighter. When the curvy blonde bombshell walks in he can do nothing but help her find the cat.
I have read many stories by this author and I can say this is one of my favorites. Hands down the funniest by far.
Great short read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a very cute, funny, short spicy read.
Rylie is a preachers daughter and vet tech. She has been sheltered her entire life. On her first day of being solo at the vet clinic, snowball, a diabetic cat escapes.
After searching aimlessly for him she goes next door to the fire station to ask for help.
What she finds is a wall of muscles in nothing but black boxers singing.
Devon owns a construction company and is a volunteer firefighter. When the curvy blonde bombshell walks in he can do nothing but help her find the cat.
I have read many stories by this author and I can say this is one of my favorites. Hands down the funniest by far.
Great short read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
This was an entertaining instalove short story with a fun meet cute between Devon & Rylie. The cat Snowball was also fun for her brief part in the story and we also get a peak at some of the characters in the newest Wildwood Valley series.
Steam Rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Connected to Wildwood Valley Firehouse Series
Prequel - Mountain Man’s Winter Angel: Fire Captain Elijah & Mayor Tessa Pearce
Mountain Man's Winter Beauty: Mason & Gabby
Mountain Man's Winter Darling: Conner & Kameron
Mountain Man's Winter Sweetheart: Hux & ?
Mountain Man’s Winter Treasure: Wolfe & ?
Mountain Man's Winter Songbird: Knox & Elsa
🔥 I received a free advanced reader copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. 🐱
Steam Rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Connected to Wildwood Valley Firehouse Series
Prequel - Mountain Man’s Winter Angel: Fire Captain Elijah & Mayor Tessa Pearce
Mountain Man's Winter Beauty: Mason & Gabby
Mountain Man's Winter Darling: Conner & Kameron
Mountain Man's Winter Sweetheart: Hux & ?
Mountain Man’s Winter Treasure: Wolfe & ?
Mountain Man's Winter Songbird: Knox & Elsa
🔥 I received a free advanced reader copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. 🐱
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Code Red" by Lilah Hart is the second book in the Side Hustle multi-author series. What happens when it's your first day working as a vet tech and you lose a sneaky cat? Rylie never expected to find a sexy firefighter singing in his boxers when she rushed into the firehouse. As Devon and Rylie search for the lost cat in the woods, they can't deny their instant connection. This story offers easy, quick fun with no drama, no cheating, an instant spark, and just the right amount of spice, concluding with a happily-ever-after.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
A missing cat called Snowball starts off a love story that is fast and sexy. Rylie is not worldly but wise and knows what she wants. When she meets Devon in his boxers in the fire house she knows he is for her. A hunt for Snowball brings these together. Devon did not expect the curvy Rylie to take his heart in one breath. One request and these two are set. Devon may come across as a grump but he is one teddy bear with heart and knows how to treat the woman he wants. Rylie may have been brought up sheltered but she is a woman who knows her mind.
These two are brilliant, sexy, steamy and care for each other.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
These two are brilliant, sexy, steamy and care for each other.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 6, 2026
Firefighter romance.
Rylie is a young veterinary assistant in a small town. While alone in their small clinic, the cat she's caring for escapes, and she ends up asking Devon, a handsome volunteer firefighter, for help finding it. It's love at first sight.
Devon is a grumpy volunteer firefighter who also works for a construction company. He certainly didn't expect to fall for the beautiful Rylie, who asks him for help with her cat.
Will Rylie and Devon have a beautiful love story after finding the cat, or will Devon's grumpy side get the better of them..
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Rylie is a young veterinary assistant in a small town. While alone in their small clinic, the cat she's caring for escapes, and she ends up asking Devon, a handsome volunteer firefighter, for help finding it. It's love at first sight.
Devon is a grumpy volunteer firefighter who also works for a construction company. He certainly didn't expect to fall for the beautiful Rylie, who asks him for help with her cat.
Will Rylie and Devon have a beautiful love story after finding the cat, or will Devon's grumpy side get the better of them..
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rylie is a frantic vet tech who lost a patient in the woods. She's so frantic, she runs to the firehouse because firefighters find cats, right? What she doesn't expect is to come back and face a hottie in boxers. Devon thought he was going to have some peace while the other guys were out, but that came to a halt when a pint-sized woman started him. Now he's helping her find her cat. Their chemistry is instant, and the two of them hit it off. But can they have a future together? This was a super sweet, quick read.
Review of advance copy
Small-town, insta-love charm:
Code Red is an excellent read from start to finish. This small-town, steamy, insta-love romance was engaging with wonderful characters. I really enjoyed this story featuring construction worker/voluntary firefighter, Devon and vet tech, Rylie. Devon and Rylie have a connection from the start, and I love their meet cute. This short read is a fun, worth the read. Code Red is part of the Side Hustle series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Code Red is an excellent read from start to finish. This small-town, steamy, insta-love romance was engaging with wonderful characters. I really enjoyed this story featuring construction worker/voluntary firefighter, Devon and vet tech, Rylie. Devon and Rylie have a connection from the start, and I love their meet cute. This short read is a fun, worth the read. Code Red is part of the Side Hustle series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
𝘾𝙤𝙙𝙚 𝙍𝙚𝙙 𝙗𝙮 𝙇𝙞𝙡𝙖𝙝 𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙩 is a very short, steamy, instalove romance that serves as a cleanser if you want a break from reading too much dark romances.
When I say it was very short, it was really VERY short like around 7 chapters or so. It was instalove because eveything clicked for them after few hours of spending the time together to save Snowball (the cat). The spice was okay for me.
Overall, I enjoyed it as a cleanser! It was an easy and an okay read if you're looking for a fluffy, no angst, not-so-spicy read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When I say it was very short, it was really VERY short like around 7 chapters or so. It was instalove because eveything clicked for them after few hours of spending the time together to save Snowball (the cat). The spice was okay for me.
Overall, I enjoyed it as a cleanser! It was an easy and an okay read if you're looking for a fluffy, no angst, not-so-spicy read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 6, 2026
A little crossover between the Wildwood Valley firehouse crew and side hustles. Rylie works at the vet clinic, when a cat manages to escape out of his carrier after searching for an hour she seeks the help of the firefighter next door. Devon was enjoying some alone time at the station when a frazzled vet next door came in to ask for help wrangling a cat. The chemistry between them was instant and he couldn’t say no. Fun read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 6, 2026
"Not a date. Totally. Definitely. Absolutely not a date"
Devon steals Rylie's breath....her mind and her ability to string words together. In return she steals his heart...together, they are steamy hot, explosively sexy and delightfully dirty at every opportunity!
This is a great crossover with the new Wildwood Valley Firehouse series, all of which are released this month, I hope to see more of Devon and Rylie as we get to know the gorgeous guys of Wildwood Valley Firehouse. I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
Devon steals Rylie's breath....her mind and her ability to string words together. In return she steals his heart...together, they are steamy hot, explosively sexy and delightfully dirty at every opportunity!
This is a great crossover with the new Wildwood Valley Firehouse series, all of which are released this month, I hope to see more of Devon and Rylie as we get to know the gorgeous guys of Wildwood Valley Firehouse. I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
Review of advance copy
Short and steamy, an insta-love story between volunteer firefighter Devon and vet tech Rylie, as she seeks help from the fire department. A quick read, with fun side characters.
Although it is a short story, you still get to know the main characters a little, and given the side characters, there will probably be more stories to come.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Although it is a short story, you still get to know the main characters a little, and given the side characters, there will probably be more stories to come.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
This is about Devon, a volunteer fireman and Rylie who works as a vet tech next door to the firehouse. When Rylie loses a diabetic cat she runs to the firehouse and meets Devon while he’s cooking in his black boxer briefs. This is a short story, sweet and steamy with instalove between Devon and Rylie. Fast read with interesting extra characters I’m hoping we’ll get to know in other stories. I enjoyed every word.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 1, 2026
“Code Red” by Lilah Hart
-A lost cat leads Rylie straight into an unexpected meeting with firefighter Devon. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.
Their instant chemistry, playful banter, and low-drama connection make this a fast, fun read. Devon definitely falls first, adding sweetness to the spice and romance.
Short, charming, and satisfying, with a cozy conclusion that hits just right.
-A lost cat leads Rylie straight into an unexpected meeting with firefighter Devon. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.
Their instant chemistry, playful banter, and low-drama connection make this a fast, fun read. Devon definitely falls first, adding sweetness to the spice and romance.
Short, charming, and satisfying, with a cozy conclusion that hits just right.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Did you hear the one about the Firefighter and the lost cat…..
Crew cab action abounds when Rylie, the new vet tech needs a firefighter stat to rescue Snowball and Devon is the perfect man for the job 😊. Love a couple who communicate and know what they want out of life and for each other. And just a perfectly wonderful epilogue.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Crew cab action abounds when Rylie, the new vet tech needs a firefighter stat to rescue Snowball and Devon is the perfect man for the job 😊. Love a couple who communicate and know what they want out of life and for each other. And just a perfectly wonderful epilogue.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Rylie and Devon's story is a quick, fun, spicy read. The meet cute was so funny. I loved meeting the firehouse guys, and can't wait to read all their stories. Wildwood Valley is one of those places you wish you could find on a map.
No serious drama, no angst just a feel good insta-love with great spice. A lunch break read that will leave you with a smile.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
No serious drama, no angst just a feel good insta-love with great spice. A lunch break read that will leave you with a smile.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rylie loses a cat on her first day being alone in the vet office. She goes to the fire department next story and gets help from Devon. Of course, she sees him in just his underwear and can't get that out of her mind. He takes her to get some drinks with his buddies and after a couple of drinks Rylie lets him know she wants to see the underwear again up close and more. They quickly connect and he is keeping her.
January 8, 2026
Devon and Rylie met unexpectedly when she is trying to find a runaway cat and Devon is the only one at the fire station. These two have a fast instalove, crazy, wacky, irresistible attraction to each other. The characters are exactly what each other needs. They are uninhibited, intoxicating, wild and crazy and real. I loved this story! It was delightful, fresh, hot and steamy. A romance at warp speed. Enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Side Hustle story of Devon Carlisle and Rylie. These two are just adorable and hilarious I couldn't stop laughing at just how hot and perfect they are together and can't wait to get my hands on the other books in this series. How these two meet will have you cracking up.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Riley is a vet tech and when she loses a cat runs next store to the fire department. Devon and Riley are an adorable couple. This story has wonderful characters and introduces a lot of other characters that I am sure will be in books in the future. This is a short, sweet and steamy read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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