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Fighting Fire #3

Consumed by You

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She's playing with fire...

Dog trainer Cara Bailey wants to find "the one," but fantasizing about her sexy-as-hell client, firefighter Travis Jansen, is getting in the way. Her only option? Get the confirmed bachelor out of her system-in every position possible-so she can settle down with Mr. Right. Starting right now.

Travis doesn't do relationships, so no matter how badly he wants the pretty little brunette, he keeps his distance. Until Cara goes and changes the game. She'll fulfill all of his fantasies if he agrees to walk away when it's over. But when the wildfire between them blazes out of control, it will consume everything-and everyone-in its path...

192 pages, ebook

First published August 11, 2015

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About the author

Lauren Blakely

215 books19.5k followers
A #1 New York Times Bestselling, #1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling, and #1 Audible Bestselling author, Lauren Blakely is known for her contemporary romance style that's sweet, sexy and witty. Her heroines are strong and smart and her heroes have hearts of gold and fantastic funny bones. She'd love to give you a free book today! Check out her web site to grab your free read: https://laurenblakely.com/one-free-book/

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➜ WEBSITE: laurenblakely.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
Profile Image for Nicola.
1,393 reviews244 followers
February 19, 2017
Consumed by You contained some of my favourite things:

A firefighter... ✔️
...who talks dirty ✔️
A cute puppy dog...✔️
...fur-baby of the aforementioned firefighter who loves his cute puppy dog ✔️
Second-chance romance ✔️
Plenty sexy-time ✔️

description

I have to confess Lauren Blakely is a hit and miss author for me, but this series has worked for me and from the start firefighter and pro poker player, Travis and dog trainer, Cara's trip down memory lane was a hit.

"...the sooner I stop thinking about you, and daydreaming about the sex we’ve had, and imagining all the things you’d do to me, the better off I’ll be."

Neither Cara or Travis are looking for anything permanent and with Travis determined to win the firefighter' charity bachelor auction, his pup needs training to do so and Cara is the woman to help him. And with a natural chemistry that comes from a history and being comfortable and familiar around one another, they're nothing but honest in what they want.

"Is it getting me out of your system?"
"No. It only makes me want more of you."


It was fairly predictable but who cares, because it was a perfect balance of sweet and hot and sexy, with strong likeable characters and of course cute puppy dogs. And it was nice to catch up with previous couples from the series, although this can easily be a standalone. So if that's what you're after, you'll not go far wrong here.

Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing for an honest and unbiased opinion.

description
August 11, 2015
 photo consumed by you_zpspcxs54vz.jpg

Thank you Lauren for writing the sexiest book boyfriends ever! I totally loved Consumed by You, it was an amazing book about second... Not, third.... Not, fourth.... Ok, N-th chances, about finding and fighting for what you want in life, about sexy deals and of course, about how easy is to fall in love with a firefighter as awesome and Travis Jansen, my new addition to the BBF collection.

The story begins in the middle of Travis and Cara's love story. They were a couple I'm high school and has been hooking up along the last 10 years, when Cara came to visit her family in their hometown, but that was it, only hook ups, nothing else, but Cara is back in town, and Travis can't stop thinking of her, about how beautiful she is and how amazing they are when they are having sex... So, with the help of Becker and Megan, they end up having a "fling" again, one sexy, steamy, sweaty, and marvelous fling that could lead into something else.... Only if they weren't so BLIND!

I loved Travis and Cara together, their chemistry is perfect, they can't keep their hands off each other and they have the best time training Henry, Travis's dog. Did I say Travis is amazing? But annoyingly blind? Well, both of them are blind and so stubborn, UGH! Why oh why? But this added to the story the perfect amount of drama to keep me reading this book up until the 3 in the morning because I needed to know how it would end.

If your weakness are the sexy firefighters, you have to read this. And if you haven't read any book about sexy firefighters, with a dirty mouth and a perfect sex-pertise, you have to read this book. 100% recommended!
Profile Image for Michelle.
2,101 reviews1,253 followers
August 12, 2015
ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review

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Sizzling!! Intense!! Fiery Hot!! And of course, consuming!!! Lauren Blakely has once again consumes her readers into this smoking hot story of two people who are fighting their strong sexual and emotional connection to one another. As Cara and Travis tries to navigate their relationship, it only leads to one hot explosive chemistry. In all honesty, I rather keep my review of this book short and simple since this is one of those books that you can easily get lost in and the story-line is pretty much straightforward. With a story built on trying to fight off their attraction to one another, it only leads to an blazing inferno of steamy moments. As always, Ms. Blakely pulls her readers with her descriptive writing and strong dirty-talking alpha males. So if you are looking for a hot, sexy, smoking romance read then I would recommend Consumed by You.

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Profile Image for WTF Are You Reading?.
1,302 reviews89 followers
August 13, 2015
Lauren Blakely's latest heat filled heart stopper brings readers back to the small town sweetness of Hidden Oaks, California.  With Jaimie and Smith forging their particular brand of forever, and wedding bells a ringin' for Becker and Megan; the fun, flirt, fur, and fireworks this time around feature none other than crowd favorites, Cara and Travis.

The fact that these two have appeared in prior stories, and have had dates on each other's lust calendars since high school, make the hot and heavy opening chapter of this read seem a lot less like insta-love, and a lot more like the overdue natural progression that it is.

Not one to rest on her passion laden laurels, authoress Lauren Blakely, imbues her leading man and his lady with an easy and very natural rapport that reads just as  wonderfully for the couple before and after the clothes come off.

Due to the fact that their foray into the land of the lusty has to compete with Megan and Becker's nuptials, Henry (the cutest dog ever's) training, and Travis's preparations for his role in the California Fireman's Auction. (A charity event to benefit the families of firemen killed in the line of duty.)  There is more than enough story here to compliment the "oh so HAWT  flames that Cara and Travis are managing to stoke within each other.

This romance is unlike many contemporary romances out there in that, there is no tragedy that one or the other of the lovers in question must be saved from or work through, in order to get to their happy.  This is just a case of  "OK...let's do this."
And believe me...
You as the reader will be very happy you did!
Profile Image for Kim.
2,499 reviews150 followers
July 11, 2015
4.5+ stars

I have to start this by saying I have strongly suggested (OK... maybe actually harassed) Lauren Blakely to write a book for Travis after being intrigued by him in the previous books Burn for Me and Melt for Him. He is Megan's brother and friends with all of other characters Smith, Jamie, and Becker. And I thought there might be something lurking with him and the local dog trainer, Cara. Travis and Cara have history and current lust between them. But they want different things out of life. She wants love, commitment, family, and the white picket fence. He can only handle casual sex and no strings.

But they can't get each other off their minds. They both come up with a proposition that will have them spending more time together but should still allow them to walk away when done--both getting what they want and hopefully have each other out of their systems so they can move on. The perfect plan? Maybe...Maybe not...

Travis is a sexy-as-hell firefighter with a card shark's analytical mind, sharp wit, and a giving heart. But he has deep seated fears. His past has marked him and made him swear off ever having a real relationship where he could be hurt.

Cara is sassy, quirky, and sweet. She is good at training the responses in the dogs she works with, but dealing with men is a whole different scenario. She longs for real love, stability, and kids. But Travis and their history fans the flames of her desires, and no other stable man can seem to compare. She needs to get him out of her system, so she can find someone who will give her what she needs.

They have a flirty rapport, hot chemistry, similar sense of humor, and a fierce attraction. But they've always had an expiration date in their past and now in their present. Travis will not do anything long term. He has seen the pitfalls of relationships, analyzed the risk, and deemed it unsafe for him.

Cara knows she should guard her heart, but finds it increasingly difficult the more she is around him. The more heated they become, the more dangerous it is for her. Travis is one stubborn man with definite ideas and fears. Can she ever convince him to go all in and take the risk?

I loved Travis even when I wanted to smack him for being dense and strong-willed. I had faith he had it him to be the romantic, loving guy. I adored Cara. She was such spunk and fire, but was also sweet. They had passion, but also a strong connection. They just had issues with communication and being on the same page. Oh yeah and that Travis was a bit blind and strong-willed.

I was thrilled to get more with the other Hidden Oaks couples Smith and Jamie, and Becker and Megan. Their lives are all intertwined, and their friendships and bonds are strong. They are not afraid to meddle, taunt, tease, or push each other and they add more humor too. We even get a visit from another side character from another series who tends to show up when gambling is involved and I love when we see little connections between her books. And it is hard to resist sweet doggy sidekicks like Henry, Violet, and Chance. They really were quite the characters themselves.

I was immeditatley sucked back into life in Hidden Oaks and was rooting for Travis and Cara the whole time. I am so glad that Lauren wrote Travis' story and I was not disappointed. I have become attached to all of these couples. Travis falls somewhere around halfway on the scale between Smith's funny, sweet personality and Becker's troubled, brooding one. They are all quite the sexy dirty talkers though and needed strong women to compliment them.

I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Alaina.
6,316 reviews215 followers
September 4, 2020
All kinds of cheesy but these books just flew by in this series. So I can't be that mad, right?

Consumed by You introduces you to Cara and Travis. He's a pro poker player and she's a dog trainer. At this point, I'm not sure who has the dream job. I feel like both could give you headaches.. but only one can give you dog snuggles and kisses. So.. yeah, dog trainer is the winner for me.

Other than that, it was pretty predictable. I mean I could've read this with my eyes shut and ears closed and I still probably would've know how everything would go down. Yet, I ate it all up. There's just something about Lauren's writing and her books. There's definitely a love/hate relationship with them but still so damn addicting.

In the end, I need another puppy. Two Doberman's just aren't enough right now.
Profile Image for Pam Nelson.
3,222 reviews100 followers
August 10, 2020
Why did I wait so long to listen to this book?
Low drama, great characters, hot steamy sexy times and puppies!!!

Cara and Travis were hot and heavy in high school but then they went their own ways but now that they are both back in there home town sparks fly.

I love that they both know what they want so they do it. There isn’t any drama; there isn’t any miscommunication its honesty and lust that fuel these two.

It’s not always easy when you want something you can’t have but the beauty of an adult relationship is trust and communication I loved this story.

Erin and Joe are on fire in this performance. Highly recommend this listen.
Profile Image for Yvette ~ Nose Stuck in a Book.
632 reviews652 followers
August 8, 2015
It's rare for me to have complete and total trust in an author – to know that each book of theirs that I pick up will become an instant favorite – but Lauren Blakely is one such author. That’s why, when I started the third book in her Fighting Fire series, Consumed by You, I expected to encounter sexy firefighters, playful banter, and incomparably sensual love scenes. It was clear that Lauren Blakely had outdone herself once again when, after being less than ten percent into the book, I was furiously fanning my face and marveling over the combustible chemistry between protagonists, Travis and Cara. Of course, this sizzling introduction turned out to be tame in comparison to what’s to come…

Consumed by You brings together former lovers, Travis and Cara, who engage in a limited time, no-strings-attached affair in an effort to get each other out of their systems. Their desire for each other – the unadulterated need that draws them together – is so palpable you can't help but feel consumed by its intensity. The characters and the storyline are of course the main draw of the book, but I'd be lying if I said the love scenes weren't equally as crucial to the narrative. In some books, sex can often be gratuitous or thrown in for shock value, but I love that every scene in Consumes by You, romantic or otherwise, serves a specific purpose. Every word of every sentence exposes a different facet of Travis and Cara’s characters, and I felt as though I got to know them down to the minutest detail – their strengths and weaknesses as well as their thoughts and motivations.

Whether it’s the already established romantic connection between the characters or the echo of unresolved feelings, there’s just something about a second chance romance that tugs on my heartstrings. The physical connection between Travis and Cara is never in question, yet, when it came to their approach to life and love, they couldn’t have been more different. Cara is a bold, confidant woman who knows what she wants and pursues her desires with a fierce determination, while Travis is more cautious, approaching a situation in such a way as to leave no room for surprises. Differences aside, the two click on every level evidenced by the familiarity that’s in their every interaction. There’s an irresistible force pulling them together, but at the same time, there’s a tension between them that heightens the emotions whirling between them.

What I love about Consumed by You (and the Fighting Fire series as a whole), is that it’s a straightforward love story, focusing on the two protagonists and the development of their romantic relationship. It’s obvious from the start that Travis and Cara’s romance is barreling toward an inevitable conclusion, but it’s the excitement of the journey that kept me glued to each page. The second chance romance element added an extra layer of depth to the story and had me rooting for the couple’s happily ever after. Emotionally compelling, deliciously steamy, and hopelessly romantic, Consumed by You is a delightfully entertaining addition to the Fighting Fire series.

*complimentary copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Jennifer.
1,997 reviews85 followers
August 12, 2015
* A review copy was provided by the author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review *

~ 5 Smokin' Hot Stars ~

What I absolutely love about Lauren Blakely's books is that she knows how to create a story that is the perfect combination of heart, humor and melt your kindle steam ;)

I have read MANY books by Lauren and I have never been disappointed. Her books have always captivated me, made me swoon, made me blush and yes I have even gotten angry at her characters, but that is what truly makes a 5 star book in my opinion.

Consumed by You was no different. This story was sweet, heartfelt, fun, and sexy all rolled into one. She has created characters that you can't help but suck them into your heart and feel like you are a part of their lives. I thought the pace and flow of the story was spot on. This book isn't extremely long, but it never felt rushed or that it was missing something. Consumed by You is the third book in Lauren's Firefighter series, but can be read as a stand-alone. I personally haven't read either of the first two books and it didn't take away anything from this story. You do have reoccurring characters from the previous books, so it kind of ruins the endings of those books, but after reading this one, I want to go back and read the first two to see how each of those couples stories played out.

In this book we follow the story of Cara and Travis. This book is pretty much a second chance romance because Cara and Travis have a past history together. Cara and Travis dated back in high school but separated when they left for college. Travis has a HUGE phobia of relationships because of what happened to his mom after his dad is tragically killed when he was 10. He felt that if he avoided connections to other people (women) then his heart is safe. Cara on the other hand wants what every girl wants. The marriage, kids and a loving home to come home to. Just like her sisters. But Cara and Travis can't forget what the two of them have in the chemistry department. So they come up with a plan….a 2 week fling!!! That will solve all their problems…Right??? Well you are going to have to read the book to see how everything works out for this couple.

If you have read the first two books in this series then you are going to enjoy seeing the previous couples in this book. You get to see where they have gone since their books. Being that I hadn't read them it was still nice having them in the story because it showed the close bond these friends all have. It really made you want to be a part of this circle of friends.

I would 100% recommend this book. I have LOVED every Lauren Blakely book and I don't think you'll be sorry if you pick up this or any other of her books. They are downright sinful….in the best way ;)

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Profile Image for Liz ~ Liz's Reading Life.
858 reviews31 followers
August 11, 2015
First Lauren gave us the lovable hot shot Smith. Then came the big hearted sexy Becker. With those two incredibly delicious men, what more could you ask for?

Well, Lauren came with a most tempting offering... Travis Hansen.

Seriously, I don't know how Lauren keeps coming up with all these fine specimen of men. Hot doesn't even begin to describe how great these stories are. Be warned, you'll need an ice cold shower after this book, so enter at your own risk.

Travis and Cara have known each other since forever. Everyone around them knows that these two should be together, but Travis and Cara fight their attraction. Cara wants more than Travis is willing to give. Travis isn't interested in settling down but he can't help but want a taste of Cara, even if just one more time.

Cara has been looking for the one, except she keep measuring up all potential dates to Travis. There must be something she can do to get him out of her system. So she comes up with plan, now she just needs to convince Travis to go along with it.

And once Travis agrees to the plan, will they be able to walk away when the deadline comes or will they both want more?

This was, by far, my favorite Fighting Fire book. The intensity that flows between Travis and Cara not only consumes them, but the reader as well.

Travis epitomizes what you expect from a fire fighter. He's tall, dark and handsome, but he's also loyal, caring, and a hell of a poker player. Cara has a heart of gold, always willing to help her fellow man and man's best friend. They are both strong willed, independent individuals. They want what they want, no questions asked. Together they burn hot, sizzling hot. Their story began long ago, but it doesn't end here. They tons of potential if only they can stop getting in the way of themselves.

I exceedingly recommend this book to any Lauren Blakely fan and to all those love fire fighters. This is an all consuming read that can't be missed.
Profile Image for book bruin.
1,142 reviews282 followers
January 11, 2019
Audiobook Review

Overall 4 stars
Performance 5 stars
Story 4 stars

I really enjoyed this second chance friends with benefits romance! These are classic tropes for a reason and Lauren Blakely does them so well! Amazing performances by Joe Arden and Erin Mallon make this a real treat. I will never get tired of hearing these two (individually or together) and they captured the sexy, playful, vulnerable, and electric chemistry between Cara and Tyler perfectly. Consumed by You can be enjoyed as a standalone, but characters from the previous 2 books do appear and that is where we initially meet our characters.

Tyler and Cara have quite the history and though they dated briefly in high school, nothing more has ever come from their scorching chemistry and connection. Tyler has sworn himself off from relationships and love after seeing the aftermath left in the wake of his own father's untimely death. He makes no promises for a future, but chooses to live in the present. Cara on the other hand, has a particular vision for her future and what it should contain. Unfortunately, these two cannot deny the feelings they still harbor for the other and in an attempt to "get them out of their system", the friends with benefits deal is made. But what happens when what started as just fun and indulgence begins to feel like so much more? Although Blakely doesn't reinvent the wheel with this trope, it was still emotional as our characters began to see what was so clear to everyone else. The push and pull drama thankfully occurs late in the book, and though I'm not 100% sold on Tyler's epiphany, I was glad that it resolved quickly. Overall, this was a sexy and fun listen!
Profile Image for Shayna.
1,813 reviews594 followers
August 11, 2015
A sinfully decadent treat! Full of intense passion and tons of heat! Sizzling sexual tension that will have you biting your lip the whole way through. CONSUMED BY YOU will set your Kindle ablaze! A combustible and fiery connection between two people who are fighting their true feelings the entire time, makes for a scorching and emotional romance.

Blakely is one of those extremely talented writers that you can just trust. You trust that they will never steer you wrong. It has come to the point where I don't need a blurb, synopsis, excerpt, or teaser for one of her novels. If Lauren Blakely writes it, I will read it. No questions asked. Consumed By You is just another example of that. An excellent, fiery romance for sure! I've had a great fixation on Travis since the beginning of this series, so I was so giddy when I heard of this book coming out.

There is quite a history between Cara and Travis. There is this heavy passionate connection between the two of them that they can't deny. But even with the intense chemistry they share, in the end, they want different things. Cara wants a relationship, love, and a family. Travis wants a fling with no emotional attachment whatsoever. It is casual sex or nothing. Even though they are on two different paths, they can't escape one another. A proposal is made that should leave their hearts intact at the end of it all. But who the hell are they kidding? Cara and Travis would like nothing better than to fuck each other out of their systems. But while they are spending more time with one another, the lustful connection that they share turns emotional, feelings turn deeper, and by the end they discover the damage is already done. If one walks away, both hearts will be irrevocably broken.

Travis and Cara were really great characters. You have a sexy as sin firefighter with great street smarts. You have a beautiful, sweet, and witty dog trainer who knows her stuff. Separately, they are really strong characters, but together they are explosive.

If you are familiar with Lauren Blakely, you know there will be a dirty-talking alpha male and a sassy heroine who holds her own. It doesn't take much for me to become attached to one of Blakely's characters. I was already hooked on Travis and Cara was certainly close behind. To play off the title, I have no doubt that romance junkies will be completely consumed by Blakely's latest release.

 photo consumedbyyouteaser.jpg

*Gifted copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Shannon.
4,036 reviews186 followers
April 24, 2023
A steamy firefighter, dual POV, no-strings attached romance that turns into something more. This was a fun, quick read and works as a standalone but I'll definitely be checking out the other books in the series. Perfect for fans of Mariah Ankenman's Mile High Firefighters series and great on audio narrated by Joe Arden and Erin Mallon.
Profile Image for Micky Cox.
1,670 reviews15 followers
January 22, 2021
They've been avoiding the obvious since college, but things heat up in a big way bringing them back together again for a hot and steamy couple of weeks. Fun characters, hot firefighters, entertaining plot and lots of physical activity to get the blood pumping.
Profile Image for J. Grayland.
Author 6 books128 followers
May 18, 2019
Dog trainer Cara Bailey wants to find "the one," but fantasizing about her sexy-as-hell client, firefighter Travis Jansen, is getting in the way. Her only option? Get the confirmed bachelor out of her system-in every position possible-so she can settle down with Mr. Right. Starting right now. A lovely sweet, second chance romance.
Profile Image for 1-Click Addict Support Group.
3,749 reviews442 followers
August 9, 2015
Consumed by You takes us back to Hidden Oakes, a town where the firefighters are smoking hot. This is Travis, Megan’s brother, and Cara’s story and I thoroughly enjoyed it!

Travis is a volunteer firefighter as well as a professional poker player. He has a penchant for dirty talk, but will never have a relationship due to his past. However, it doesn’t stop him from wanting some hot times with Cara.

“Does that sweet, sexy way you say my name mean you’re about ready to come on my tongue?” he asked, giving her the dirtiest of dirty looks.

Cara is a dog trainer. She is sassy, feisty, and flirty. She has wanted Travis since they were together in high school; no other man could make her feel so good. But there is always an expiration date on their time together.

“I want to finish what we started at the club. I want you to fuck me six ways to Sunday. I want to stop daydreaming about more sex with you and start having it.”

The two enter into a deal – she will help train his dog, Henry to help him win a bachelor auction while they have a two week long fling so that they can get each other out of their systems. However, the connection between them makes it must harder than either of them expected.

“Power was fun. Power was intoxicating. Power was a downright aphrodisiac.”

This story was hot, sexy, and sweet. The intensity between Travis and Cara was palpable. I love watching a man who denies love for so long start falling. I loved that we got to see so much of Smith and Jaime, and Megan and Becker and how their lives have continued as well. I need to visit Hidden Oakes and find me a sexy, single firefighter! ~ Tiffany, 4 stars

~~~

Cara Bailey and Travis Jansen have been fighting their attraction to each other since high school. Cara wants a life that includes a husband, 2.5 children, a house, white picket fence, dog, cat—otherwise known as the fairytale happily ever after. She knows this life exists—her parents and sisters have it, so she wants it too. But that’s not in the cards for professional poker player and volunteer firefighter Travis.

Travis is not Cara’s Mr. Right, but maybe he could be Mr. Right Now. Especially when she makes him an offer he can’t refuse—one that’s supposed to work him out of Cara’s system so she can move on with her life. Travis is fully on board because he’s been wanting to get Cara back in his bed for a long time—this is his chance to play the odds, weigh the risks, and walk away in the end.

Oh, nothing like a dose of reality when characters think they can outplay Fate. Cara and Travis heat up the couch and the floor and the wall and the stairs, but after all that heat will they really be able to walk away?

Whoa, Travis. Swoon. I wouldn’t mind a two week fling with this hottie poker player/firefighter. He’s not a risk taker. He’s a “stay the course” kinda guy. Relationships are risky—a risk he’s not willing to take. But will Cara change his mind?

Cara’s a bit of an enigma in this book. She’s shared a bit of her life story, but her background and growing up years could have been fleshed out a bit more—especially her stance for the happily ever after she wants so badly. And I would have really liked to see more interaction with her sisters and mother that she wants to emulate.

I did love the updates of what’s going on with Smith and Jamie, and Megan and Becker. And I loved the scenes when Cara was training Travis’ dog, Henry. They were adorable—especially the one after Henry’s first training day. ~ Missy, 4 stars

~~~

There aren't many things in the world sexier than a firefighter who loves dogs. And Travis Jansen is absolutely one of Lauren Blakely’s sexiest firefighters. Which is saying something, because have you met Smith and Becker yet?!

Travis Jansen has goals. To get his dog trained. To win a firefighter bachelor auction. And to never get stuck in a relationship. But that doesn't mean he's not open to casual, hot, sex-everywhere-you-can-think-of flings. Especially not when it’s with the woman he's been lusting after…

Cara Bailey IS looking to get into a relationship, but her desire for the handsome firefighter is an inferno. Her plan? Sex with an expiry date – just long enough to get him out of her system and then walk away.

Except how will they walk away, when their passion is hot enough to burn?

I've loved everything I've read by Lauren Blakely. Never once have I struggled with, or questioned, a book with her name on the cover. Consumed by You, to that end, made for a different, and honestly, somewhat difficult reading experience for me. Because while there were aspects of this story that I loved as much as anything Ms. Blakely has penned before, I just found myself feeling disconnected to this story. Or, more specifically, to Cara…

I wanted to love this sweet dog trainer with big aspirations for the future. And there were moments that I absolutely did. Her caring nature with dogs – beautiful. Her banter with Travis – very amusing. But there was something about her history and her plans for the future that just didn't quite work for me. Her concerns were repetitive, her plan a little skewed. It felt a little like her feelings came from nowhere, like she came from nowhere. I'm aware that she made brief appearances in the first two books of this series, but only because I went back to check. I didn't remember her contributions to Burn for Me and Melt for Him. Which made her backstory with Travis, who I absolutely, 100% remembered from previous Lauren Blakely books, seem a little…random.

What DID work for me though, was basically everything else. Particularly Travis. Kind, compassionate, dirty Travis, who I was desperate to see get a HEA. Also, the dogs. Ms. Blakely’s love of our four-legged friends shone from the pages and made me want to head to the nearest shelter to adopt a pet. And, as always, the funny, playful and charming banter between characters – Travis and his sister, the Hidden Oaks firefighters, the women as they gear up for marriage and the future. This author has a gift for banter, and it is always a highlight. Always.

And finally, the ending. I adored the ending here. It was all the best parts of a romance novel. A little far-fetched but not so much that it couldn't happen (I just can't picture any of the men in MY life doing it…which is probably a good thing), completely swoon-worthy and so damn happy I was practically giddy.

Despite my aforementioned reservations with this book, I am truly glad I read it and I hope that there will be more in the Fighting Fire series in future. If only for more smokin’ hot firemen and their puppies… ~ Beth, 4 stars
Profile Image for Sonia N..
698 reviews52 followers
November 27, 2020
I always enjoy Lauren Blakely’s books. On Audible it’s even better with my favorite narrators.
Travis and Cara dated in high school. She is a dog trainer and he is a sexy gorgeous fireman. They are still attracted to each other but he doesn’t do relationships.
She makes a deal with him that he can’t refuse. And wow what a hot deal 🔥🔥❤️
Profile Image for Jessica .
841 reviews155 followers
August 10, 2015
4.5/5 stars

I remember reading the previous book in this series, Melt for Him, and I was hoping we would get Travis's story and now here it is! Yay! This made me really happy because I couldn't wait to see Mr. 'I Don't Believe in Relationships Because They Only End in Heartache' fall in love.

I really enjoyed Cara and Travis's story. These two have seriously hot chemistry and they have history as well, having dated in high school and having had a few hook ups since then. Naturally, you're rooting for them to get together for real and have it stick. Travis is like a lot of male leads we've read before, in the sense that he doesn't do relationships and can't offer anything more because he thinks he doesn't have more to give. Losing his father in the line of duty was a serious blow, as he saw just how much it impacted his mother and how deeply she retreated into her shell, leaving him to be the one to take care of himself and his younger sister. He saw how much his mother loved his father and how his death destroyed her and he doesn't want to ever put another woman in that position. So, while he is attracted to Cara, he knows what they have can only be physical, despite those niggling feelings that keep popping up the more he spends time with her.

I liked Cara. She wasn't a woman who played around. She knows what she wants for her life and she isn't going to let anything sway her from that plan. Not even a sexy as sin firefighter who she knows can ignite her like no one else can. Cara is a forever kind of girl. She isn't into one night stands and hook ups, so it's really out of character for her to propose they act on their attraction in order to get the other out of their systems. Too bad it doesn't quite work out that way. Spending time together naturally reinforces why they are so attracted to one another in the first place. It's so much more than physical and I really liked seeing those tender, sweet moments together. Not to mention, I love how she's helping him train his dog. It just adds this cuteness factor that made the dog-lover in me swoon!

We get to see Megan and Becker, as well as Smith and Jamie from the previous books, which I enjoyed because I love to check in with my couples and see how they are doing.

I really enjoy Lauren Blakely's books and this was no exception. The romance is sweet, the sexy times are off the charts hot, and the conflict is there, but not overdone to the point where you feel frustrated with the characters.

*Received a copy of this book via the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
Profile Image for MJLovestoRead.
1,887 reviews46 followers
August 10, 2015
Holy hotness!! I am beside myself once again at the absolute joy and pleasure (!)I get from reading a Lauren Blakely book. This latest in her Fighting Fire series is everything you want from a sexy read and oh so much more.

This time around, it's Travis Jansen as our hotter than hell firefighter. He and Cara Bailey have danced around each other for years, once in a long while having a tryst when each needed to let loose. But now finding themselves face to face after so much time apart, the sparks are still flying and the chemistry is burning up my ereader! And once Cara offers not only dog training for Travis's pup, Henry, but a few weeks of wild and passionate sex to get him out of her system for good, that is when the temperatures really start to rise.

Helping a friend win at a firefighter's auction while satisfying the burning need to be with the one man who has ruined her for any other. Oh wow, has Cara put herself in a precarious position. But she can walk away once the 'training' is over. That's what she thinks and finding out if there could be more is just the start of one wild adventure.

Oh how I love these off-the-charts sexy reads. Lauren Blakely once again knows how to give the reader the right amount of steam and then adds that special touch of tenderness and affection that sets her books apart from so many others.

I find myself rooting for that ultimate HEA but loving the road to get there including all the missed cues, the heart-racing missteps and the sad realization that maybe it might be too late after all. This book is the perfect beach read. The one to end your lazy summer days with a smile, some very naughty thoughts and writing that is never less than perfect.

Highly recommended. No one can resist one of the author's dirty-talking heroes. You'll be hooked for life. I know I am.

5 panty-melting stars!
Profile Image for Kristin ~ Book Lovers Obsession.
869 reviews13 followers
August 6, 2015
Cara Bailey and Travis Jansen have a history of short lived trysts throughout their lives. They are friends with off the charts chemistry but their goals in life are so far apart a real relationship is out of the question.

Cara wants the 2.5 kids, white picket fence, dog in the backyard life that her sisters have. Travis has seen first hand the devistation that love can cause. His father died when he was young and since watching his mother's world crumble, he vowed to never let anyone have the ability to crush him like that.

When Cara can't stop thinking about Travis while on a date with someone that should be absolutely perfect for her she decides that the best way to get over Travis is to screw him out of her system.

"I want you," she whispered, "so much it drives me crazy. But I know you don't do relationships. This is no commitment, no dating, no fuss, no muss. Two weeks while we train Henry, and then we're done." She wiped one palm against the other to show it would be a clean break at the end."

2 weeks of no strings attached sex - what guy could resist that? Especially when that guy wants the exact same thing. But can it really be that easy? Can 2 weeks be enough for these two to get each other out of their systems and move on?

This book was amazing!! Cara and Travis are awesome together! They can go from friendly joking to smoldering lovers in the blink of an eye. I loved the banter back and forth and the way every one of their friends knows what's best for them even if they don't realize it themselves. I also loved seeing Smith and Jamie and Becker and Megan again too!!

Another 5 star book from Lauren Blakely! Get to one clickin!!
Profile Image for Sarah.
3,336 reviews1,017 followers
August 1, 2015
Cara and Travis have history, the connection between them has always been combustible but she's looking for love and wants to start a family while he's seen first hand how painful love can be and is determined to avoid it. Knowing that a relationship is completely off the table Cara needs to find a way to move on and she figures that with one last fling she should be able to get Travis out of her system for good. Of course love doesn't always go to plan and now she's risking getting her heart broken if Travis doesn't realise just how special their connection is.

This series just keeps getting better and better! I have a bit of a thing for all of the firefighters in these books but I think Travis might just be the sexiest one yet. I loved how sweet and romantic Travis could be even when he was protesting that he wasn't looking for a long term relationship. There is a lot of history between these two and it was really easy to see how strong their bond was, their chemistry was fab but they were also good friends and just enjoyed spending time together. There is plenty of light hearted banter as well as the sexy times and I had a lot of fun reading their story.

It was also great to catch up with previous characters and see how they're all getting on. That's one of the things I love most about series like this one, the familiar setting and recognisable faces just add a little extra that you don't get from stand alone stories. Lauren Blakely is definitely becoming a favourite author and I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Chantal.
480 reviews18 followers
July 18, 2015
Consumed by you is a wonderful and sexy story of two people who are looking for completely different things in life but can’t deny the attraction they have for each other.
Travis, a sexy and hot volunteer fire fighter has issues with committed relationships because he’s seen what can happen if you lose that very special person in your life.
Cara is looking for more than a fling and is ready to find the right person to settle down with.
Travis is not immune to sexy a women like Cara Bailey and she can’t keep him out of her mind.
They come up with a plan which seems to work out well in the beginning but their feelings for each other deepen more than was anticipated.
What happens when things get more serious than was planned? Will they be able to walk away from what they had, just as what they originally agreed on?
I loved this story. It is playful, sexy, sweet and fun and had me chuckle a few times throughout. And not surprisingly Lauren’s love for dogs shines throughout this book. A definite recommend and another 5 star read for me.
Profile Image for Jacqui Norris.
279 reviews7 followers
August 9, 2015
ARC received for honest review

This was a great story of two people who have a history of dating and incredible sex. The problem is that Cara wants the white picket fence HEA and Travis doesn’t. The problem is neither can get the other out of each others system. So they come up with a plan to do just that. They have two weeks until Travis is in the Fireman's Bachelor Auction. Two weeks and then they will both just walk away. Can they make it those two weeks? Can Cara train Henry, Travis’ dog to be a chick magnet?

Admittedly I did not read the first two books in the series but had no problem keeping up. The chemistry between these two and the way Lauren Blakely has written the story makes for some hot and sexy scenes that will make everyones fantasies of firemen come true! Now that I have read #3, I am going back and reading the first 2. Something tells me they are going to be just as good! Thank you Lauren Blakely for yet another amazing book!! Don’t know how you keep doing but please do!
Profile Image for Courtney.
1,577 reviews181 followers
Read
October 14, 2016
Another hit for Lauren Blakely. And HOT!!

This is the third installment in her firefighters series and it's definitely going to consume you.

Cara and Travis have danced around each other for years. Travis isn't the commitment type of guy so he steers clear of Cara. However, Cara isn't looking for anything long term. And when she offers her Travis something he just can't deny - things really heat up.

I absolutely love Lauren's writing and she's always able to keep things moving along and just as hot too. Don't expect to have any real suspense as things are usually easy to figure out but that's why I love Lauren's books. Sometimes you just needs those reads where you fall in the fantasy of what is going on and live through the characters. And that is what Lauren delivers.

I highly recommend this book to anyone!
Profile Image for Belle.
512 reviews515 followers
February 6, 2017
3.5 stars I loved that the main character was a dog trainer and that she credited her relationship with Travis to their dogs. It was a cheesy romance story with the slightly cliche (but still enjoyable) trope of "she admits her love and he breaks her heart only to realise he's still in love with her."

The characters were enjoyable but not overly original, which seems to sum up the book well. Enjoyable but not original.
Profile Image for Dali.
1,804 reviews457 followers
May 18, 2023
Consumed by You is book 3 of the Fighting Fire series by Lauren Blakely. It is told from both POV with a HEA.

Tropes:
➵Fireman/card shark
➵Friends to lovers
➵No strings fling

Consumed By You set my eReader ablaze. The story revolves around dog trainer Cara Bailey & her irresistible longtime friend, firefighter & card shark Travis Jansen, as they navigate their attraction while trying to protect their hearts.

Travis is the epitome of a sexy firefighter, complete with humor, a giving heart, & an analytical mind. However, his past has left him wary of commitment & relationships. Cara, on the other hand, is a sassy & sweet woman who longs for love, stability, & a family. But the magnetic pull between Travis & Cara threatens to consume them both, even as they try to keep their relationship casual.

Travis & Cara share a flirty rapport, & a fierce attraction that leaps off the pages. Their banter is entertaining & filled with sparks, & their connection is undeniable. It's impossible not to root for them to overcome their fears & find a way to be together.

Travis, despite his stubbornness & self-imposed limitations, is a captivating character. I found myself alternating between wanting to shake some sense into him & swooning over his underlying romantic & caring nature.

I did find myself occasionally frustrated with Travis's stubbornness & lack of communication. However, this flaw only serves to make his eventual growth & transformation more satisfying. Furthermore, the author's ability to create characters who feel real, flawed, & relatable adds an extra layer of authenticity to the story.

Returning to Hidden Oaks gave me glimpses of characters from previous books, whose connections add depth & humor to the narrative. Lauren Blakely creates a rich tapestry of friendships & bonds that enhance the overall reading experience.

Additionally, the inclusion of charming canine sidekicks adds a heartwarming touch to the story. They're not merely accessories but play active roles, showcasing their personalities & providing moments of levity.

Overall, Consumed by You is a steamy & engaging romance that delivers on its promise of sizzling chemistry, witty banter, & a journey towards love.

See all my book edits on Instagram
Profile Image for Sandra R.
2,817 reviews33 followers
November 27, 2020
It's okay and well written with lots of side characters. There are many sex scenes and an average back story, though with some fun scenes - hero's a firefighter. I listened to the audio version and the narrators were good. Joe Arden...😉
Profile Image for Amy .
2,714 reviews
November 26, 2015
“This man consumed her. He stole every breath from her lungs. He could have anything from her. This was an undoing. This was him unraveling her stitch by stitch, unknitting all her control, so she was left only this hot, fevered, hungry thing. Needing him.”

I’m just going to keep this review short and sweet. This book was hot, sexy, fun and very entertaining. Consumed By Him follows the story of Travis and Cara. Travis and Cara have always had chemistry. The spark between the two of them is undeniable. As much as they try, they can’t seem to get each other out of their heads. That’s where the plan comes in. The two of them decide that the only way that they can possibly move on is to work each other out of their systems. I mean, what’s the worst that could happen? The more time these two spend together, the more they are starting to feel. They’re starting to want things that neither one of them agreed to. What will happen when the fire is too hard to hot to ignore? Will these two take a chance on the passion that burns between them?

Consumed By Him is the third book in the Fighting Fire Series, but can totally be read as a stand-alone. I have not read the first two books yet, but let me tell you, I am dying to get my hands on them. This book was fun and sexy with just the right amount of angst. I loved the chemistry between Travis and Cara. They just melted the pages when they were together. “This was the only way to be kissed–pinned to the wall, bodies coiled together, his lips claiming hers. She was at his mercy, and she willingly gave himself to him. He kissed her like she was his oxygen, the very thought of not kissing her was hell on earth.” I couldn’t get enough of the two of them together and loved watching their relationship progress.

Overall, I really enjoyed Consumed By Him. I was hooked on the characters from the very first page. Travis and Cara’s story gave me everything that I was looking for and more. If you’re looking for a quick, sexy read, than look no further. Lauren Blakely does not disappoint. I definitely recommend checking this book out.

*I was provided an ARC copy of this book via Entangled Publishing and NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Phyl.
1,388 reviews16 followers
February 22, 2017
A lovely sweet story about second chance love
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