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Pine Mountain #6
Reckless
Re-releasing on April 16, 2024
326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 26, 2016
94 people are currently reading
1610 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Kincaid
61 books2,678 followersUSA Today best-selling author Kimberly Kincaid writes romantic suspense that sizzles and contemporary romance with heart and heat. Equal parts action and emotion, her firefighters and first responders always save the day. When she's not finding adventure with her family and naughty Whippets, Olive, Daisy, and Jack, she can be found practicing obscene amounts of yoga, whipping up anything from enchiladas to éclairs in her kitchen, or curled up with her nose in a book.
Kimberly's series include The Intelligence Unit, Remington Medical, Station Seventeen, and her brand-new Remington Rescue Squad series. All titles stand alone for easy reading.
Kimberly's series include The Intelligence Unit, Remington Medical, Station Seventeen, and her brand-new Remington Rescue Squad series. All titles stand alone for easy reading.
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January 26, 2016
Reckless is book one in the brand new series, Rescue Squad, by Kimberly Kincaid. This book was generously provided to me in exchange for an honest review by the author.
What happens when you take one sexy firefighter that thrives on taking risks, both at work and at play, and one buttoned up, always play it safe and by the rules chef, and put them together in the kitchen? Read on and find out.
Alex Donovan has been a firefighter for eight years. Fighting fires is what he lives for, what he was meant to do. Outside of work, Alex also lives for the adrenaline rush, jumping out of air planes, rock climbing, you name it. Alex is known for his act first, think later ways. He is known by his fellow fire fighters at the Fairview Fire Department, station 8, as Teflon, for the way he seems to slide out of trouble time and time again. This time, though, his actions are going to cause the consequences to stick. Alex may have finally gone too far. His punishment is four weeks off from the fire department, no pay and all four weeks he must do community service at the Hope House, a kitchen that feeds both the residents of the shelter and also the hungry off the streets.
Zoe Westin is a chef, and she is also Alex’s fire captain’s daughter. Zoe attended culinary school and began work as a sous chef at one of Washington D.C.’s hottest restaurants. The job should have been her dream come true, everything she could have hoped for, but it wasn’t fulfilling her. She wanted more. She didn’t just want to feed people, she wanted to nourish people. So she started Hope House. But she is running on a shoe string. Barely making ends meet. She definitely doesn’t have time for a cocky fire fighter that clearly does not want to be in her kitchen.
“You may be a good firefighter, but your personnel file reads like an adrenaline junkie’s guide to fire fighting.”
As Zoe and Alex are forced to work together, Alex slowly realizes the importance of what Zoe is trying to do and what it means to both her and so many others. As their working relationship improves, a personal relationship begins to form. Slowly, Alex teaches Zoe that taking risks isn’t always a bad thing.
“There’s a big difference between being confident and taking cocky risks that make you reckless.”
As the attraction between them grows, Alex has to constantly remind himself that this is his captain’s daughter, the man who is both his boss and somewhat of a father figure to him, the man that always has had his back. Zoe is hands off. That is one risk he just can’t take.
“The more he let his attraction to her smolder and burn, the less he’d be able to resist giving in to the heat growing between them.”
Alex and Zoe were perfect together. And the chemistry practically leapt right off the pages. Alex needed Zoe in a way he never could have imagined. And Zoe needed Alex to teach her how to let loose a little bit, how to take a risk.
“You want to know what happens if I don’t take those risks, even the ones that shake me up? Nothing. And while sometimes that nothing isn’t a huge deal, other times, letting nothing happen is more dangerous than taking the risk.”
I really did love this book. This is the Fairview Fire Department where Nick Brennan from All Wrapped Up, went back to work as an instructor. So we get to see just a little bit of he and Ava and how well they are doing. It didn’t take me long at all to fall in love with Alex and Zoe. In fact, I can tell you exactly when it happened. It was on the rock wall. This book had some sweet moments that made me sigh, some sweet moments that made my eyes water, and plenty of sexy moments. The mixture of the fire fighters and the soup kitchen was perfect. The way the station 8 fire fighters were all there for Zoe when she needed them was amazing. They had her back just as they would each other. Can Alex keep his promise, though, to Zoe, that he would always be ok, that with all the precautions he and the others take, that he would always come home to her? Can Zoe live with the knowledge that fighting fires is dangerous work, that every time that bell goes off, Alex is going in to danger? I hope you’ll read this book to find out. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
“What if really living means taking risks? What if all you have to do is trust?”
January 31, 2016
Opposites or more precisely, compliments attract and sparks grow to a scorching burn in this sweet and hot story about a thrill seeking fire fighter and a take no chances chef.
Taking risks or putting her life in danger like her father, a fire captain, is something Zoe is terrified of. She is dedicated to helping others though. Zoe Westin left her promising career in the high-end food industry in order to go back home to a more fulfilling job feeding people in need by firmly administrating a soup kitchen. But when the most reckless man in her father’s fire house is sentenced to a month of community service in her kitchen, her life will never be the same.
Alex Donovan is an expert at living life without hesitation and to the fullest, which for him translates into living for his job and taking risks, lots of them. From ski diving, to rock climbing, to running into burning buildings. He never though twice that his ask for forgiveness later attitude would land him in coring vegetables and serving food jail supervised by his superior’s very off-limits and stickler-for-rules daughter, who is making him want to show her that sometimes not taking a chance is the biggest risk of all. When the fire between them can no longer be contained, can he convince her to take a chance on them?
His job as a firefighter is everything to Alex and even though he doesn’t want to be at the soup kitchen he has no other choice. Although he starts on the wrong foot he recognizes that Zoe’s labor is just as important as his. As their working relationship improves their attraction skyrockets even when he knows his captain’s daughter is completely off limits and she understands that he’s totally wrong for her. But their differences is exactly what make them work so well together balancing each other out while giving us a sweet and sexy story.
Who can resist a sexy, cocky and charming firefighter? I certainly can’t! Liking Alex was no hardship. He’s intensely loyal yet carefree, he’s a rule breaker yet is always cautions and he showed Zoe something that is wholly important in life. And that is to live it fully, completely.
Even though I was not a big Zoe fan, especially when things didn’t go her way and she placed blame where she shouldn’t have, I really liked her caring heart pouring into her job which together Alex's encouragement and the help from the station 8 fire fighters was downright touching.
Reckless is book #1 and a great start in the Rescue Squad series by Kimberly Kincaid. This is a sexy and appealing standalone book with an exciting fire fighting background. I can’t wait to read more about the other supporting characters. This story is told from alternating points of view with a happy ending.
Amazon -> http://amzn.to/1nGKjOm
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
“Being afraid to follow your heart is dangerous.”
Taking risks or putting her life in danger like her father, a fire captain, is something Zoe is terrified of. She is dedicated to helping others though. Zoe Westin left her promising career in the high-end food industry in order to go back home to a more fulfilling job feeding people in need by firmly administrating a soup kitchen. But when the most reckless man in her father’s fire house is sentenced to a month of community service in her kitchen, her life will never be the same.
“What if really living means taking risks? What if all you have to do is trust?”
Alex Donovan is an expert at living life without hesitation and to the fullest, which for him translates into living for his job and taking risks, lots of them. From ski diving, to rock climbing, to running into burning buildings. He never though twice that his ask for forgiveness later attitude would land him in coring vegetables and serving food jail supervised by his superior’s very off-limits and stickler-for-rules daughter, who is making him want to show her that sometimes not taking a chance is the biggest risk of all. When the fire between them can no longer be contained, can he convince her to take a chance on them?
“I want you, Zoe, and I don’t want to stop wanting you. I want to take the risk… Wo tell me, Zoe. Do you trust me enough to take the risk?”
His job as a firefighter is everything to Alex and even though he doesn’t want to be at the soup kitchen he has no other choice. Although he starts on the wrong foot he recognizes that Zoe’s labor is just as important as his. As their working relationship improves their attraction skyrockets even when he knows his captain’s daughter is completely off limits and she understands that he’s totally wrong for her. But their differences is exactly what make them work so well together balancing each other out while giving us a sweet and sexy story.
“Every day that we have is a gift.”
Who can resist a sexy, cocky and charming firefighter? I certainly can’t! Liking Alex was no hardship. He’s intensely loyal yet carefree, he’s a rule breaker yet is always cautions and he showed Zoe something that is wholly important in life. And that is to live it fully, completely.
“Sometimes that nothing isn’t a huge deal, other times, letting nothing happen is more dangerous than taking the risk”
Even though I was not a big Zoe fan, especially when things didn’t go her way and she placed blame where she shouldn’t have, I really liked her caring heart pouring into her job which together Alex's encouragement and the help from the station 8 fire fighters was downright touching.
Reckless is book #1 and a great start in the Rescue Squad series by Kimberly Kincaid. This is a sexy and appealing standalone book with an exciting fire fighting background. I can’t wait to read more about the other supporting characters. This story is told from alternating points of view with a happy ending.
Amazon -> http://amzn.to/1nGKjOm
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
June 9, 2016
5 - "I've got your back." Stars!
My first new author discovery of 2016, and Kimberley Kincaid delivered everything I want in my romance reading and she delivered it spectacularly!
If you read romance, you are likely to have a soft spot for the odd fireman, and Alex Donovan certainly left me feeling all soft, whilst reading Reckless. With just the right amounts of charm, confidence and attitude, he is a guy you are certainly going to get a little swoony over. Oh, and he is not too shabby in the dirty talking stakes either!
"I think we got off on the wrong foot here."
The fact that he ends up falling for his boss’s daughter, well that just added fuel to the fire for me, add to that, the author built an absolutely stellar story around them, and this was an easy book to read.
"I’m reckless… Not brainless."
Zoe was pretty much his opposite at the beginning of the book, and I loved that while together Alex encouraged her to step out of her bubble of rules and conformity, and take a few calculated risks. Their gradual build up to the sexy-times really worked because the author kept the sexual tension on a constant simmer, and I liked that they had a little bit of past between them to give their reconnection depth.
"If you want to see all the places I blush, go ahead and find them."
As I said Kimberly Kincaid is a new author to me, and a very, very happy discovery at that. I found her writing style really entertaining, with plenty of snark and banter, the sexy-times between Alex and Zoe were absolutely stellar, and the general story-line although packed with a few of your run-of-the-mill tropes, was so well written that it really didn’t feel that way, the drama was relevant and not overplayed, and everything was just perfectly balanced for me.
Being the first book in the new Rescue Squad series, you are also introduced to a wealth of characters, that I am expecting to see more from and get to know a lot more about with each addition to the series.
"Right now, in this moment, I want to be with you."
Fearless, the second book in the series is due for release on 26th July this year, being Cole’s book I am all sorts of excited, as we see quite a bit of him in this one due to him being Alex’s colleague and friend. More firemen…
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
My first new author discovery of 2016, and Kimberley Kincaid delivered everything I want in my romance reading and she delivered it spectacularly!
If you read romance, you are likely to have a soft spot for the odd fireman, and Alex Donovan certainly left me feeling all soft, whilst reading Reckless. With just the right amounts of charm, confidence and attitude, he is a guy you are certainly going to get a little swoony over. Oh, and he is not too shabby in the dirty talking stakes either!
"I think we got off on the wrong foot here."
The fact that he ends up falling for his boss’s daughter, well that just added fuel to the fire for me, add to that, the author built an absolutely stellar story around them, and this was an easy book to read.
"I’m reckless… Not brainless."
Zoe was pretty much his opposite at the beginning of the book, and I loved that while together Alex encouraged her to step out of her bubble of rules and conformity, and take a few calculated risks. Their gradual build up to the sexy-times really worked because the author kept the sexual tension on a constant simmer, and I liked that they had a little bit of past between them to give their reconnection depth.
"If you want to see all the places I blush, go ahead and find them."
As I said Kimberly Kincaid is a new author to me, and a very, very happy discovery at that. I found her writing style really entertaining, with plenty of snark and banter, the sexy-times between Alex and Zoe were absolutely stellar, and the general story-line although packed with a few of your run-of-the-mill tropes, was so well written that it really didn’t feel that way, the drama was relevant and not overplayed, and everything was just perfectly balanced for me.
Being the first book in the new Rescue Squad series, you are also introduced to a wealth of characters, that I am expecting to see more from and get to know a lot more about with each addition to the series.
"Right now, in this moment, I want to be with you."
Fearless, the second book in the series is due for release on 26th July this year, being Cole’s book I am all sorts of excited, as we see quite a bit of him in this one due to him being Alex’s colleague and friend. More firemen…
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
September 28, 2016
I loved this book. I rarely write reviews of other authors' books. In fact, I rarely let them know I'm reading their books. Reading romance to me these days too often feels like going to work. But I couldn't resist this story, and I wanted to get a sense of Kimberly Kincaid as a writer.
The heroine, Zoe Westin, is doing her best to walk a different path, using her culinary skills to provide food for people who don’t have any. Her father is a firefighter and runs the station where the hero, Alex Donovan, is in hot water for making a reckless decision on a call.
The two seem at first to be very different people. Sure, you might think it's a story about a goodie-two-shoes heroine and a hotheaded firefighter who's an adrenaline junkie. But the characters are deeper than that. Zoe has unfinished business with her father, while Alex has unfinished business with himself. It's the qualities that they have in common that draw them together despite Zoe's aversion to risk-takers and Alex's initial resentment at having to do community service at her kitchen.
What makes this story come alive is the writing. Kimberly Kincaid has a way of taking that intangible, almist indescribable moment that stretches between two people and turning it into something precious. All of that unspoken tension becomes real and three-dimensional in her writing. Her prose is fresh and snappy and very alive.
This is contemporary romance, but it feels a bit like romantic suspense. I heartily recommend this story and this author. I've got SKIN DEEP, her next book, and am anxious to get started on that.
The heroine, Zoe Westin, is doing her best to walk a different path, using her culinary skills to provide food for people who don’t have any. Her father is a firefighter and runs the station where the hero, Alex Donovan, is in hot water for making a reckless decision on a call.
The two seem at first to be very different people. Sure, you might think it's a story about a goodie-two-shoes heroine and a hotheaded firefighter who's an adrenaline junkie. But the characters are deeper than that. Zoe has unfinished business with her father, while Alex has unfinished business with himself. It's the qualities that they have in common that draw them together despite Zoe's aversion to risk-takers and Alex's initial resentment at having to do community service at her kitchen.
What makes this story come alive is the writing. Kimberly Kincaid has a way of taking that intangible, almist indescribable moment that stretches between two people and turning it into something precious. All of that unspoken tension becomes real and three-dimensional in her writing. Her prose is fresh and snappy and very alive.
This is contemporary romance, but it feels a bit like romantic suspense. I heartily recommend this story and this author. I've got SKIN DEEP, her next book, and am anxious to get started on that.
July 15, 2016
“So tell me, Zoe. Do you trust me enough to take the risk?”
Zoe Westin runs the soup kitchen in Fairview, and feeding people who need it, making a difference is what’s most important to her. She doesn’t take risks, and because she’s the fire captain’s daughter she knows how firemen thinks. All they care about is their jobs, risking their lives. So when she’s saddled with daredevil Alex Donovan, a gorgeous firefighter, she knows her life is going to get complicated.
Alex Donovan loves his job as a firefighter, he lives for taking risks, and the adrenaline rush it gives. His fire company is his family, so when he’s forced doing community service in a soup kitchen he dreads following all the rules, which is unnecessary in his opinion. But he didn’t expect his new boss to be his captain’s sexy daughter, who is stubborn and set on her rules. And Alex is suddenly determined to show Zoe that taking risks has its rewards. There’s just one rule that Alex will not break, and that is giving into the attraction to his captain’s daughter. No matter how hard it proves to be.
But the chemistry between them gets hotter with every encounter, and both are unable to deny it. Will this be a risk that ends up burning them, or one worthy of the heat?
Trouble was, when Zoe Westin got reckless, Alex wanted to hang the rules, too. And the more he let his attraction to her smolder and burn, the less he’d be able to resist giving in to the heat growing between them.
I liked Zoe from the start. The fact that making food isn’t all she wants, she dreams of making a difference in people’s lives with the food she makes. She’s wary of firefighters because of her father, and how the marriage ended between her parents. She’s been attracted to Alex for a long while, but thinks that he isn’t interested in her, and she doesn't want to fall for a firefighter, and live with the fear her mother and her felt everyday for her father.
It took a longer while for me to like Alex. At first he seemed reckless, without care for the consequences of his actions. And I didn’t like how he didn’t even bother with the rules Zoe had at the soup kitchen, not thinking that there could be a very good reason for them. But after he messed up, and was forced to see what happened because of his disregard of her rules, he started to get better. I liked seeing him realise the importance of what Zoe and Hope House did, and how he supported her, and was always there for her. I also loved that once they gave into their chemistry, he was all in, and never once changed his mind about being with her.
“I want to wake up next to you tomorrow and see your face, just like this, and then I want to fall asleep next to you so we can do the same damn thing all over again. I want you, Zoe, and I don’t want to stop wanting you. I want to take the risk. I want to be with you.”
The romance was a bit of a slow burn because of Alex trying to do the right thing, but once the sexy times began it was all scorching heat. I really liked Alex and Zoe together, she loosened up because of him, and he took himself a little more seriously because of her.
I always like firefighter novels, probably because I have a thing for the uniforms ;-) This was an enjoyable read, and I’m looking forward to reading the next book.
January 27, 2016
Reckless is the first book in Kimberly Kincaid's new Rescue Squad series. This is my first book by Kimberly Kincaid and it certainly won't be my last. She was about to write a very sweet and sexy story about learning to trust your instincts and that it is life is all about taking risks. Reckless is an opposite attracts story with a daredevil firefighter and a cautious chef.
Firefighter Alex Donovan is an adrenaline junkie. That is part of the reason he became a firefighter (aside from wanting to help people). He learned early in life that you have to live life to the fullest and he doesn't want to regret missing out on anything. And while that philosophy might work in his personal life, it always seems to get him in trouble at work. When a situation with another station house caption lands him in trouble, he has two choices: do four weeks full-time community service or lose his job.
The last thing Zoe Westin needs is another "volunteer" that won't pull their weight at her soup kitchen. She is already low on funding and doesn't have the time or man-power to babysit an adult. She's also out to prove to her father (Alex's boss!!) that she made the right decision by leaving a high-end restaurant in D.C. to start her soup kitchen back home and to show that you don't have to put yourself at risk to help people. When she realizes that none other than Alex Donovan is her new "volunteer" for the next for weeks, she knows that he is going be trouble in more ways then one.
The longer that Alex and Zoe work together, the more they learn from each other. Zoe learns that it is okay to take risks in life and Alex learns that some rules are worth following.
I really enjoyed these characters and how much they grew as people. I look forward to reading more from Ms. Kincaid and more of this series.
Rating: 4 out of 5
**I received an ARC through Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.**
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Firefighter Alex Donovan is an adrenaline junkie. That is part of the reason he became a firefighter (aside from wanting to help people). He learned early in life that you have to live life to the fullest and he doesn't want to regret missing out on anything. And while that philosophy might work in his personal life, it always seems to get him in trouble at work. When a situation with another station house caption lands him in trouble, he has two choices: do four weeks full-time community service or lose his job.
The last thing Zoe Westin needs is another "volunteer" that won't pull their weight at her soup kitchen. She is already low on funding and doesn't have the time or man-power to babysit an adult. She's also out to prove to her father (Alex's boss!!) that she made the right decision by leaving a high-end restaurant in D.C. to start her soup kitchen back home and to show that you don't have to put yourself at risk to help people. When she realizes that none other than Alex Donovan is her new "volunteer" for the next for weeks, she knows that he is going be trouble in more ways then one.
The longer that Alex and Zoe work together, the more they learn from each other. Zoe learns that it is okay to take risks in life and Alex learns that some rules are worth following.
I really enjoyed these characters and how much they grew as people. I look forward to reading more from Ms. Kincaid and more of this series.
Rating: 4 out of 5
**I received an ARC through Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.**
Find me here too!!!
Blog: http://alysenovak.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlyseNovakBlog
Twitter: www.twitter.com/alyseypoo21
Bloglovin': https://www.bloglovin.com/alyseypoo21
Google+: https://plus.google.com/+AlyseNovak
January 25, 2016
At the beginning I wasn't sure about this one. While I love the whole firefighter idea, Alex comes off a bit too arrogant and a little too careless. When we meet Zoe it's almost the opposite. She's too straight laced and too uptight. I wasn't sure I was really going to connect with these characters and I really didn't see how they were going to connect with each other in a way that was even remotely believable. Let's just say I greatly underestimated Kimberly Kincaid because not only did I love these characters by less than half way through the book but I was rooting full force for the HEA.
The thing that really worked for these characters is that they actually listen. There's a scene pretty early on where Alex, who isn't paying attention, incorrectly stores meat in the pantry and by the time Zoe finds out it's too late and the meat is ruined. She (justifiably) flips out and at first he tries to blow it off because what's the big deal. But then he listens and he understands why losing that meat is a death blow to their budget and that feeding these people who have no where else to go is just as important to Zoe as fighting fires is to him. It's really a great moment. I love how the characters reacted to each other. They might not take problems perfectly but they're generally willing to listen once they settle down. I really enjoyed getting to know the characters better and I loved seeing the relationship between Zoe and her dad.
This was a really fun contemporary romance where we really get to know and understand the main characters. I can't wait for the next one! I'm hoping for Cole's book next though I'd be okay with Rachel's story too.
Full Review: http://iwishilivedinalibrary.blogspot...
The thing that really worked for these characters is that they actually listen. There's a scene pretty early on where Alex, who isn't paying attention, incorrectly stores meat in the pantry and by the time Zoe finds out it's too late and the meat is ruined. She (justifiably) flips out and at first he tries to blow it off because what's the big deal. But then he listens and he understands why losing that meat is a death blow to their budget and that feeding these people who have no where else to go is just as important to Zoe as fighting fires is to him. It's really a great moment. I love how the characters reacted to each other. They might not take problems perfectly but they're generally willing to listen once they settle down. I really enjoyed getting to know the characters better and I loved seeing the relationship between Zoe and her dad.
This was a really fun contemporary romance where we really get to know and understand the main characters. I can't wait for the next one! I'm hoping for Cole's book next though I'd be okay with Rachel's story too.
Full Review: http://iwishilivedinalibrary.blogspot...
December 5, 2015
This is the first book in a new series by Kincaid and already I am head over heels in love with it. I'm so glad Alex and Zoe were the first couple for this series.
Alex is a firefighter and is used to being reckless but one thing is for sure he is damn good at his job. After a bad decision he is forced to do a month of community service or be kicked out. Although not happy about it he does everything he is asked and falls for the one woman he shouldn't, his captains only daughter.
Zoe always wanted to be a chef and has trained with the best but she wanted more. Now that she is back home she is the director of a soup kitchen in a bad part of town. When Alex shows up for his community service she doesn't think he will make it but with his help everything she ever wanted will come true.
I loved the suspense of when Alex and Zoe would finally get together. Although it took awhile and a lot flirting the wait was well worth it. These two open up to each other and you can see it's more then sex. They have a great connection.
So far after reading this book I liked the characters. They stood out and I was so glad Nick made an appearance because I just loved him!
Although most of this book takes place in the soup kitchen I did love the fire scenes and how they were described. They felt so real.
I honestly couldn't put this book down! I am really looking forward to this new and exciting series from Kincaid. It's fun, heartwarming and oh so sexy! A must read for 2016!
February 19, 2016
Opposites attract in this sizzling story about a risk-taking fireman and a cautious chef who find middle ground and learn that taking risks and following the rules may not always be a bad thing. RECKLESS is fun and sweet, and a great start to the series.
Zoe Westin gave up a promising career at a high-profile restaurant to follow her dream, a decision that most consider ill-advised and one that has put her at odds with her father. With the soup kitchen running on a shoe-string budget, the last thing she needs is to babysit an arrogant firefighter who puts everything she is trying to achieve at risk with his lack of interest.
Firefighter Alex Donovan is a thrill-seeker who lives full out, with no reservations and while this may work in his personal life, professionally it could tank his career. When he has a fallout with a superior officer, Alex has only one option of keeping his job: four weeks of community service at a soup kitchen. Alex plans to do only the bare minimum for the duration of his assignment, but when his disinterest puts his assignment and ultimately his career at risk, he is willing to make amends and go over and above to prove to Zoe that she can depend on him.
At first glance, Alex and Zoe appear to be opposites but Zoe has a streak of daring that she has buried deep down, and Alex tempts her to loosen up and be carefree. Alex knows that Zoe is off limits to him but all that time working side by side in the kitchen only cranks up the heat between them. While they freely explore their chemistry, can their connection survive Alex's return to duty at the firehouse? How will his boss, Zoe's father react to the news of their involvement?
At the beginning of this book, I didn't care much for both Alex and Zoe because I thought Alex was cocky and brash and Zoe was judgmental and difficult. It took a while for me to warm up to them, but they redeemed themselves and showed a deeper, more thoughtful side to each of them. I loved Zoe's dedication to Hope House and Alex's commitment to help her dream succeed.
On a funny note, I found myself trying to find a synonym for the word 'reckless' and its variations every time I came across it:).
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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Zoe Westin gave up a promising career at a high-profile restaurant to follow her dream, a decision that most consider ill-advised and one that has put her at odds with her father. With the soup kitchen running on a shoe-string budget, the last thing she needs is to babysit an arrogant firefighter who puts everything she is trying to achieve at risk with his lack of interest.
Firefighter Alex Donovan is a thrill-seeker who lives full out, with no reservations and while this may work in his personal life, professionally it could tank his career. When he has a fallout with a superior officer, Alex has only one option of keeping his job: four weeks of community service at a soup kitchen. Alex plans to do only the bare minimum for the duration of his assignment, but when his disinterest puts his assignment and ultimately his career at risk, he is willing to make amends and go over and above to prove to Zoe that she can depend on him.
At first glance, Alex and Zoe appear to be opposites but Zoe has a streak of daring that she has buried deep down, and Alex tempts her to loosen up and be carefree. Alex knows that Zoe is off limits to him but all that time working side by side in the kitchen only cranks up the heat between them. While they freely explore their chemistry, can their connection survive Alex's return to duty at the firehouse? How will his boss, Zoe's father react to the news of their involvement?
At the beginning of this book, I didn't care much for both Alex and Zoe because I thought Alex was cocky and brash and Zoe was judgmental and difficult. It took a while for me to warm up to them, but they redeemed themselves and showed a deeper, more thoughtful side to each of them. I loved Zoe's dedication to Hope House and Alex's commitment to help her dream succeed.
On a funny note, I found myself trying to find a synonym for the word 'reckless' and its variations every time I came across it:).
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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January 25, 2016
Loved, Loved, Loved this book! Alex Donovan is just yummy and exactly the kind of guy Zoe needs to bring her out of her safe place. Zoe Westin has been around firefighters her whole life. The last thing she needs is a hot shot firefighter working in her soup kitchen but what choice does she have??? Alex knows Zoe should be completely off limits since she's his boss's daughter but this reckless risk might just be worth it!!
Kimberly Kincaid is one of my go to authors and she does not disappoint with this one! It's the start of a new series but has ties to the much loved Pine Mountain series. A great story and hot firemen make this one a must read! I highly recommend it.
Kimberly Kincaid is one of my go to authors and she does not disappoint with this one! It's the start of a new series but has ties to the much loved Pine Mountain series. A great story and hot firemen make this one a must read! I highly recommend it.
January 26, 2016
Kimberly Kincaid launches her new series with a fabulous read with a hot firefighter and a strong heroine. Their chemistry sparks and the story grabs you at page one and pulls you through to the end. Don't pass this one up! I cannot wait for book two.
January 4, 2016
ARC received from: Netgalley
Rating: 4*
Trope: Firefighter
Chemistry: Simmering
One-Sentence Summary: A reckless firefighter works at his Captain's daughter's soup kitchen and they learn to balance risks with rules
Review: A new series about firefighters? YES PLEASE! Written by a talented author? COUNT ME IN.
Reckless was a great start to a new series. You meet Brennan, a minor character, in Kincaid's 'Pine Mountain' series but there is no need to have read that before starting this book as this book sets the groundwork for the whole story and the rest of the series.
This is very much an "opposite attracts" and "my boss's daughter is off limits" story. Alex is a reckless firefighter who serves out his community service in Zoe's soup kitchen. Zoe just happens to be the daughter of Alex's over-protective Captain at the firehouse. I like how Zoe got Alex to see the importance of the work she does at the soup kitchen and in turn he helped her expand her horizons and take some carefully calculated risks. As expected, Alex's job momentarily gets in the way of their happy-ever-after but the story ends with everyone's career in tact.
I am really looking to find out whose story is next? Cole's I presume? I am looking forward to Rachel's and kind of hope there is some inter-house firefighter/paramedic romance in store for us in the near future.
If the rest of the series is anything like Reckless, I think Kimberly Kincaid is definitely going to be one of my 'Must Read' authors of 2016.
Originally posted @ Love's A State Of Mind
January 28, 2016
4.5 stars
Reckless was such a good read.
The storyline was sweet, romantic, heartwarming, with lovable and believable characters.
Loved both Alex and Zoe, they were passionate, fun, smart and they had amazing chemistry.
I really enjoyed reading their story and highly recommend this book.
Can't wait for the next book in the Rescue Squad series.
Thank you Kensington Books - Zebra via NetGalley for the advance copy.
Reckless was such a good read.
The storyline was sweet, romantic, heartwarming, with lovable and believable characters.
Loved both Alex and Zoe, they were passionate, fun, smart and they had amazing chemistry.
I really enjoyed reading their story and highly recommend this book.
Can't wait for the next book in the Rescue Squad series.
Thank you Kensington Books - Zebra via NetGalley for the advance copy.
no-dull-mwh-dmh-tstl-unsafe
January 14, 2018I think this goes on record as my quickest DNF of all time. I made it three pages in before I called it quits. The first three pages were full of idioms, cliche and otherwise, and I find that the writing is just not for me. I thought that maybe Kimberly Kincaid's style would lend itself more to full length works as opposed to novellas (since I've read a couple of her shorter works and they were just ok), but I was wrong.
January 17, 2016
Alex Donovan is well aware that people think he is reckless, but he just doesn't see it that way, he knows how precious life is, and he doesn't see the point in always walking on the safe side of the line. He would rather put everything he has into things and leave nothing up to chance, and know he did everything he could to get the job done. But sometimes his no nonsense approach to things lands him in trouble, and this time he's found himself in deep, and no amount of persuasion or charm is going to help him in out of it. After he disregards orders and puts his life in danger on the job, he finds himself suspended and ordered to perform a month of community service at a local soup kitchen. He isn't real thrilled about working at the soup kitchen, but once he meets the soup kitchens new director he starts singing a different tune. Walking into that kitchen and seeing Zoe Westin standing there knocks his world off it's axis, has him thankful for small favors... she is gorgeous, tempting as hell, and he would love nothing more than to lure her into his bed... problem is that she is the captains daughter and that makes her off limits!!
Zoe Westin gave up the glitz and glamour of working in one of the D.C's hottest kitchens, for something a little more fulfilling, and something she could truly be proud of, and moved home to open a soup kitchen. While she is quite certain she is disappointing her parents for giving up on a dream job, she feels like her new endeavor is a lot closer to her dream job, and hopes that with time they will see she is doing the right thing. When her father notifies her that he is sending one of his firemen her way to serve a months of community service she is thankful for the help, but has her reservations, and is quite certain that her father has ulterior motives. When Alex Donovan waltzes into her kitchen and is ready to get started on serving his time she is ready to send him packing, seeing him again brings up bad memories, and a deep seated temptation that she knows will be almost impossible to resist.
I have been looking forward to reading this book for some time now, and have been anxiously awaiting for the opportunity to meet Alex and I have to say he was totally worth the wait!! Barely two chapters into the story and I felt myself being completely won over by his alluring charm, enticing one liners, and domineering personality. Ms. Kincaid definitely outdid herself with character development with this one, Zoe and Alex were a match made in literary heaven!! I thoroughly enjoyed every minute I spent reading this story, and I look forward to future visits to the Rescue Squad series!! Definitely one of my favorites from Ms. Kincaid to date!!
Highly recommend you give this read a try, it is destined to steal your heart and have you wishing for a firefighter of your very own!!
ARC requested through NetGalley, and kindly provided by Kensington Books in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.
Zoe Westin gave up the glitz and glamour of working in one of the D.C's hottest kitchens, for something a little more fulfilling, and something she could truly be proud of, and moved home to open a soup kitchen. While she is quite certain she is disappointing her parents for giving up on a dream job, she feels like her new endeavor is a lot closer to her dream job, and hopes that with time they will see she is doing the right thing. When her father notifies her that he is sending one of his firemen her way to serve a months of community service she is thankful for the help, but has her reservations, and is quite certain that her father has ulterior motives. When Alex Donovan waltzes into her kitchen and is ready to get started on serving his time she is ready to send him packing, seeing him again brings up bad memories, and a deep seated temptation that she knows will be almost impossible to resist.
I have been looking forward to reading this book for some time now, and have been anxiously awaiting for the opportunity to meet Alex and I have to say he was totally worth the wait!! Barely two chapters into the story and I felt myself being completely won over by his alluring charm, enticing one liners, and domineering personality. Ms. Kincaid definitely outdid herself with character development with this one, Zoe and Alex were a match made in literary heaven!! I thoroughly enjoyed every minute I spent reading this story, and I look forward to future visits to the Rescue Squad series!! Definitely one of my favorites from Ms. Kincaid to date!!
Highly recommend you give this read a try, it is destined to steal your heart and have you wishing for a firefighter of your very own!!
ARC requested through NetGalley, and kindly provided by Kensington Books in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.
July 27, 2016
UPDATE: Since posting this review, I've read book 2, Fearless, and really enjoyed it. Ms. Kincaid did a great job of giving it an authentic firefighter flair complete with a likable main couple and engaging storyline. Though Reckless didn't rate very highly with me, I do recommend Fearless, which features a firefighter main couple.
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Maybe it was the unrealistic, unbelievable arrogant “I know better than anyone else…so I don’t have to follow the chain of command” behavior of this firefighter in the face of a large, potentially very dangerous warehouse fire that immediately put me off. Perhaps it was Zoe’s similar superior attitude and her “Woe is me, I have the hardest job ever/martyr complex”, all while criticizing Alex/judging his every move/motive that did it. But combine these two factors and this NetGalley reviewer soon found more irritation than enjoyment while reading this one.
At 40%, I realized something else had kicked in…boredom. The author was taking too long/using too many words which kept the writing from being engaging. The rock climbing scene, for example, was supposed to be a bonding moment but seemed to drag out forever. It is never a good sign when you find yourself skimming pages instead of reading them.
So, my fellow romance book-loving friends, this is a CNF (could not finish). It was simply becoming too painful to even try. Here’s to hoping others enjoy it. This one missed the mark with me. I’ll stick with authors such as Kate Meader, Bella Andre, Jennifer Bernard, Shannon Stacey, Anne Marsh, and Jill Shalvis, just to name a few, when reading this genre.
P.S. I would like to thank the author for having the handsome hero wearing a shirt on the book cover. This reviewer always prefers class over skin on her romantic reads. If there is such a thing as "visual ab fatigue book cover syndrome", I know I suffer from it.
Title: Reckless, Series: Rescue Squad (Book 1), Author: Kimberly Kincaid, Pages: 368.
(This review is based on ARC generously provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion.)
--------
Maybe it was the unrealistic, unbelievable arrogant “I know better than anyone else…so I don’t have to follow the chain of command” behavior of this firefighter in the face of a large, potentially very dangerous warehouse fire that immediately put me off. Perhaps it was Zoe’s similar superior attitude and her “Woe is me, I have the hardest job ever/martyr complex”, all while criticizing Alex/judging his every move/motive that did it. But combine these two factors and this NetGalley reviewer soon found more irritation than enjoyment while reading this one.
At 40%, I realized something else had kicked in…boredom. The author was taking too long/using too many words which kept the writing from being engaging. The rock climbing scene, for example, was supposed to be a bonding moment but seemed to drag out forever. It is never a good sign when you find yourself skimming pages instead of reading them.
So, my fellow romance book-loving friends, this is a CNF (could not finish). It was simply becoming too painful to even try. Here’s to hoping others enjoy it. This one missed the mark with me. I’ll stick with authors such as Kate Meader, Bella Andre, Jennifer Bernard, Shannon Stacey, Anne Marsh, and Jill Shalvis, just to name a few, when reading this genre.
P.S. I would like to thank the author for having the handsome hero wearing a shirt on the book cover. This reviewer always prefers class over skin on her romantic reads. If there is such a thing as "visual ab fatigue book cover syndrome", I know I suffer from it.
Title: Reckless, Series: Rescue Squad (Book 1), Author: Kimberly Kincaid, Pages: 368.
(This review is based on ARC generously provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion.)
April 21, 2024
4.5 Reckless Stars🌟
Alex is a firefighter with Station Eight. At their most recent fire, he plays things a little recklessly and finds himself serving four weeks of community service with Zoe at Hope’s House - oh did I mention, she’s also the only daughter of his fire captain🙈
Alex is not happy being sidelined, but in an effort to keep his job, he’s determined to finish his community service with Zoe. But while he challenges her to take more risks, they both risk something far greater…😍
A good story and I could see the ending and what was going to happen to Cole a mile away, which I loved❣️Can’t wait to read his story next🤩 I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my honest review.
Alex is a firefighter with Station Eight. At their most recent fire, he plays things a little recklessly and finds himself serving four weeks of community service with Zoe at Hope’s House - oh did I mention, she’s also the only daughter of his fire captain🙈
Alex is not happy being sidelined, but in an effort to keep his job, he’s determined to finish his community service with Zoe. But while he challenges her to take more risks, they both risk something far greater…😍
A good story and I could see the ending and what was going to happen to Cole a mile away, which I loved❣️Can’t wait to read his story next🤩 I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my honest review.
December 7, 2015
Community service is what Alex Donovan has been sentenced to - for a month - for his risk-prone behaviour at the fire house. But after a rocky start at the Hope House which the very risk-averse fire captain's daughter runs, Alex discovers a different way of life - of endurance and charity - that helps to temper his impulsive, risk-taking actions.
Managing risks on professional and personal levels is really what 'Reckless' is about and I found myself enjoying the delicate balance that both Alex and Zoe had to find on their own as they personally iron out what exactly 'manageable' means for themselves. A very likeable supporting cast pads this story but Kimberly Kincaid does create a very good matched pair with her H/hr here: Both Alex and Zoe are a good match, despite apparently being on opposite ends of the behavioural spectrum at first sight, yet Alex isn't really the foolish daredevil that I'd expected him to be as I got more and more into the story and Zoe's dedication to the community - to the point where risky boldness creeps in - is a cause that I found admirable. Above all, I liked how much they both challenged each other to act beyond what they thought they were individually able to give.
And if this is really what this series has in store in the future, sign me up permanently at Engine 8 for it.
*ARC by netgalley
(firefightingly grateful, mind)
Managing risks on professional and personal levels is really what 'Reckless' is about and I found myself enjoying the delicate balance that both Alex and Zoe had to find on their own as they personally iron out what exactly 'manageable' means for themselves. A very likeable supporting cast pads this story but Kimberly Kincaid does create a very good matched pair with her H/hr here: Both Alex and Zoe are a good match, despite apparently being on opposite ends of the behavioural spectrum at first sight, yet Alex isn't really the foolish daredevil that I'd expected him to be as I got more and more into the story and Zoe's dedication to the community - to the point where risky boldness creeps in - is a cause that I found admirable. Above all, I liked how much they both challenged each other to act beyond what they thought they were individually able to give.
And if this is really what this series has in store in the future, sign me up permanently at Engine 8 for it.
*ARC by netgalley
(firefightingly grateful, mind)
July 18, 2016
I went into this with somewhat high expectations, but I was somewhat disappointed. I was hoping it would be a lot easier to connect to the characters than it was for me.
Zoe and Alex didn't seem like they would be a good fit for each other. They were definitely a case of opposites attracts! I really didn't like Alex's reckless streak, though his time off ended up mellowing it. Zoe was too afraid of risk to do much of anything, and as a result, she almost lost out on relationships with both her father and Alex.
The writing was decent, but the characterization was such a problem that it held the book back from its full potential. I'll give the next book a shot, but with much lower standards.
Zoe and Alex didn't seem like they would be a good fit for each other. They were definitely a case of opposites attracts! I really didn't like Alex's reckless streak, though his time off ended up mellowing it. Zoe was too afraid of risk to do much of anything, and as a result, she almost lost out on relationships with both her father and Alex.
The writing was decent, but the characterization was such a problem that it held the book back from its full potential. I'll give the next book a shot, but with much lower standards.
August 26, 2024
Really enjoy the firefighting scenes in this book...it feels like you're really there!
This is a nice read about firefighter Alex and chef, Zoe, who meet when Alex is ordered to complete community service following an incident at a fire. They already know each other with Zoe's father being Alex's captain. Alex is a risk taker whilst Zoe isn't but they bring it the best in each other...but will the risks become too much??
This is a nice read about firefighter Alex and chef, Zoe, who meet when Alex is ordered to complete community service following an incident at a fire. They already know each other with Zoe's father being Alex's captain. Alex is a risk taker whilst Zoe isn't but they bring it the best in each other...but will the risks become too much??
April 9, 2024
I absolutely loved Reckless! Kimberly Kincaid has once again delivered another wonderful romance in Reckless, the eighth book in her Pine Mountain series. Kimberly Kincaid has once again provided her readers with amazing characters. I love how all the characters in Reckless feel like best friends and I loved catching up with them! Who does not love hot sexy men, strong, passionate females, and loving friends, who always support one another? Kimberly Kincaid continues to deliver all that and so much more. I really enjoyed Reckless and am looking forward to reading the other books in the Pine Mountain series. Kimberly Kincaid has once again shown that she is an amazing storyteller. Reckless did not disappoint, it was impossible to put it down and love every moment on every page. Reckless is the story of Zoe Westin, chef and director of the Hope House Shelter and Soup Kitchen, a transitional shelter, and Alex Donovan, firefighter for the Fairview Fire Department. Zoe’s father, Captain Robert Westin, is Alex’s boss at the fire house. Alex has always considered Zoe off limits every time that they have been around one another. Alex disobeyed direct orders regarding entering a burning structure and was insubordinate. This landed Alex with four weeks of community service at the soup kitchen. Zoe worked in a D.C. restaurant, but decided that it was not for her, so she returned to Fairview to work in the soup kitchen. Zoe and Alex start off on the wrong foot and she was concerned that he was not serious about his work at the soup kitchen. Zoe believes that Alex takes senseless risks in his private and professional life and does not believe he will last. After spending time together in the soup kitchen things change between them. I love everything that Alex and the other firefighters do to help Zoe with a food drive for the soup kitchen, and how Alex encourages Zoe to apply for a grant with the assistance from her father. I love that Alex takes Zoe to an indoor rock-climbing wall so that she can experience the thrill he gets from doing extreme sports. I love the chemistry between Zoe and Alex, and the conversations between them, I love their playful banter. I especially love the secrets that they share with one another, the ones that Alex shares about why he is such a daredevil, it is heartbreaking. An unexpected plot twist threatens Zoe and Alex’s relationship. I love the changes that Zoe and Alex are willing to make in their lives to have a life with one another. I loved catching up with some of the other characters in the series. I love the ending of Zoe and Alex’s love story. Reckless contains all the things that I have come to love most and expect in a Kimberly Kincaid story, romance, great characters and setting, bittersweet moments and the plot twist that ties it all together. Amazing story. It was impossible to put it down. Highly recommend this wonderful romance. I received an advanced copy from the author.
April 5, 2024
Hellooooo hot hot firefighter
Summary: This book follows Alex, who is in the doghouse for circumventing a direct order from a rival firehouse captain and has to commit to 4 weeks of community service in the city's soup kitchen. Unknowingly, his station's captain has an insider to whip his subordinate into shape aka his daughter, Zoe. Zoe has fought tooth and nail to keep the soup kitchen thriving with a background in high end culinary experience she was over qualified to be the director, but this kitchen means the world to her. She has no time for a lazy, unmotivated, adrenaline junkie firefighter. And so the story begins...
For someone who works with firefighters frequently, this author got the stereotype down pat. Adrenaline junkies with a knack for acting before thinking. 9/10 it works in their favor btw I cannot imagine being in their shoes and I'm not throwing shade at firefighters, but there's always that 1/10 event. I cannot tell you the amount of times the quick on your feet thinking has saved someone's life. Great plot, love the characters, and just a classic romcom to fill your day with happiness ❤️
Summary: This book follows Alex, who is in the doghouse for circumventing a direct order from a rival firehouse captain and has to commit to 4 weeks of community service in the city's soup kitchen. Unknowingly, his station's captain has an insider to whip his subordinate into shape aka his daughter, Zoe. Zoe has fought tooth and nail to keep the soup kitchen thriving with a background in high end culinary experience she was over qualified to be the director, but this kitchen means the world to her. She has no time for a lazy, unmotivated, adrenaline junkie firefighter. And so the story begins...
For someone who works with firefighters frequently, this author got the stereotype down pat. Adrenaline junkies with a knack for acting before thinking. 9/10 it works in their favor btw I cannot imagine being in their shoes and I'm not throwing shade at firefighters, but there's always that 1/10 event. I cannot tell you the amount of times the quick on your feet thinking has saved someone's life. Great plot, love the characters, and just a classic romcom to fill your day with happiness ❤️
April 30, 2024
When Alex has mandatory community service after a confrontation and ignoring a direct order from a Captain while fighting a fire, it’s that or lose his job. He doesn’t expect to do community service at a shelter and soup kitchen and report into his Captain’s daughter, Zoe. Zoe knows who Alex is, always taking risks, not playing by the rules and never serious, she will give him one chance to prove himself or she will boot him. Turns out he helps her not just in the kitchen but outside of it, showing her that you can take risks and still be safe…but the greatest risk is her heart and if she gives it to Alex….will he keep it safe.
A good read with steam and good characters that are opposites that attract. Alex may have been a bit of a goof and got away with everything and anything with his charm but he did grow on me as the story went along. I liked these two and how Zoe finally comes to terms with who he is and takes a risk.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
A good read with steam and good characters that are opposites that attract. Alex may have been a bit of a goof and got away with everything and anything with his charm but he did grow on me as the story went along. I liked these two and how Zoe finally comes to terms with who he is and takes a risk.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
April 2, 2016
Well, I have to start by saying I love romances that involve police officers, or fire fighters or military personnel. Yes, I know that there are probably some sexy accountants and bankers and insurance agents out there (anyone going to write one for me?) But the combination of a strong, healthy and fit man, serving his community or his country, with a feisty female (because they need to meet their match, right?) is one that I turn to time and time again. It’s a familiar trope, so an author needs to find something within their story to keep it fresh and exciting, and I think this author has done a great job with this one. Reckless is the first story in the Rescue Squad series, introducing the reader to a host of fun and friendly characters. In this case it’s the story of Alex, a daredevil who seeks adventure at every turn, and the much more serious Zoe. When Alex gets into trouble for disobeying a superior at a fire scene, he’s sentenced to a month of community service to shape up or be suspended permanently. It just so happens that the service he’s assigned to is a soup kitchen, run by none other than his Fire Captain’s daughter Zoe. The last thing she wants is an arrogant firefighter to babysit while she’s trying to make ends meet and feed as many people as possible. And it’s clear at the start that Alex’s goal is to do his time and get out as fast as possible. But there has always been a spark between them since they first met several years earlier and Zoe had a crush on Alex (to her mortification when he rejected her advances). And now they’re with each other all day, every day. That spark ignites, and leads to a steamy affair between them, one that neither Zoe nor Alex plans to continue after Alex’s time is served. Except that as they get to know each other, and share more than just some time in the sack, it becomes clear that if they wanted this could become something real, something permanent. But having seen what life is like for her now divorced parents, is Zoe willing to consider life as a firefighter’s wife or will Alex’s reckless ways get them both burned?
I thought this was a great start to this new firefighter series. The characters were really fun and engaging. Alex comes across right away as somewhat arrogant and entitled, but it soon becomes apparent that there are reasons for his attitude, and that his life as a firefighter is really important to him. The guys at the firehouse are his family, and over the course of the story he comes to realize how his sometimes reckless actions affect his friends and co-workers. He becomes aware of the secondary consequences, and I really appreciated how his character changed for the better over the course of the story. He’s a playboy, a charming guy, a friend to all and a good lover to boot, but some of that is just a facade for the loneliness he feels from the loss of his parents as a teenager and his desire to fit in. Meeting the people who frequent Zoe’s homeless shelter, he comes to appreciate the life he has and the chances he’s been given.
Zoe is a wonderful woman, full of a zest for life, but one that is carefully planned and organized. She gave up a promising career as a chef for a high-end restaurant to do what she loves – to take care of people who need her. She feels that her parents are disappointed with her choices, and it’s a constant source of conflict between her and her father. When she has to take Alex under her wing, so to speak, as his community service hours are assigned to her shelter, the last thing she wants is to have to babysit another of her dad’s guys. But while at first Alex reacts the way she figured he would, he gradually comes to understand and appreciate what she is doing with her life, and makes a concerted effort to help her. In return, she relaxes her guard around him, and admits that sometimes she tries too hard, and could use a little fun in her life. They make some bets that result in them spending time together outside of work, and it leads to some fun and sexy scenes between them as they let their attraction override their misgivings about getting involved. There’s a bit of the classic ‘ I can’t date you, you’re the boss’s daughter!’ trope, and the reaction of Zoe’s father when he finds out is pretty predictable as a result, but it wasn’t too over the top. The fire scenes are riveting, action-packed and exciting. The camaraderie between the guys at the fire hall gives some classic bromance scenes (always a favourite of mine) and paves the way for future stories in the series. Zoe’s hesitation to get involved in a real relationship with Alex isn’t helped by his return to his firefighting duties and the dangers he encounters. But ultimately she has to choose between a life with Alex, trusting that he’ll do his best to come home safely every night, or a life alone. Overall, it was a very entertaining story, with a wonderful happy ending and I’m excited to read more in the series! 4.5 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
This review appears as a blog post at: http://straightshootinbookreviews.com...
I thought this was a great start to this new firefighter series. The characters were really fun and engaging. Alex comes across right away as somewhat arrogant and entitled, but it soon becomes apparent that there are reasons for his attitude, and that his life as a firefighter is really important to him. The guys at the firehouse are his family, and over the course of the story he comes to realize how his sometimes reckless actions affect his friends and co-workers. He becomes aware of the secondary consequences, and I really appreciated how his character changed for the better over the course of the story. He’s a playboy, a charming guy, a friend to all and a good lover to boot, but some of that is just a facade for the loneliness he feels from the loss of his parents as a teenager and his desire to fit in. Meeting the people who frequent Zoe’s homeless shelter, he comes to appreciate the life he has and the chances he’s been given.
Zoe is a wonderful woman, full of a zest for life, but one that is carefully planned and organized. She gave up a promising career as a chef for a high-end restaurant to do what she loves – to take care of people who need her. She feels that her parents are disappointed with her choices, and it’s a constant source of conflict between her and her father. When she has to take Alex under her wing, so to speak, as his community service hours are assigned to her shelter, the last thing she wants is to have to babysit another of her dad’s guys. But while at first Alex reacts the way she figured he would, he gradually comes to understand and appreciate what she is doing with her life, and makes a concerted effort to help her. In return, she relaxes her guard around him, and admits that sometimes she tries too hard, and could use a little fun in her life. They make some bets that result in them spending time together outside of work, and it leads to some fun and sexy scenes between them as they let their attraction override their misgivings about getting involved. There’s a bit of the classic ‘ I can’t date you, you’re the boss’s daughter!’ trope, and the reaction of Zoe’s father when he finds out is pretty predictable as a result, but it wasn’t too over the top. The fire scenes are riveting, action-packed and exciting. The camaraderie between the guys at the fire hall gives some classic bromance scenes (always a favourite of mine) and paves the way for future stories in the series. Zoe’s hesitation to get involved in a real relationship with Alex isn’t helped by his return to his firefighting duties and the dangers he encounters. But ultimately she has to choose between a life with Alex, trusting that he’ll do his best to come home safely every night, or a life alone. Overall, it was a very entertaining story, with a wonderful happy ending and I’m excited to read more in the series! 4.5 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
This review appears as a blog post at: http://straightshootinbookreviews.com...
September 14, 2019
This is a first read for me by Kimberly. I really liked this one.
April 2, 2024
It was fun reading Alex and Zoe’s story. The two were such opposites—Alex took risks and Zoe was careful and avoided risks. When Alex messed up at a fire and had to do community service for four weeks without pay, he was sent to a soup kitchen that his fire captain’s daughter ran. Zoe was a chef that quit a prestigious job to open a soup kitchen in her hometown of Fairview. Zoe and her father had so much tension between them as he didn’t want his daughter working in a bad part of town. Alex and Zoe sure butted heads at first. I think there was some fire between the two that neither wanted to admit. You will love watching the two teach each other about risks and non risks. It was great seeing the firehouse have each others’ backs even if someone wasn’t currently at the fire house. There were some scary times with the fires. I strongly encourage you to read the book.
December 26, 2015
Kimberly Kincaid kicks off a new series with Reckless and I have to say that after inhaling and absolutely loving it, that I have no doubt that this book and the series will be hopping onto a lot of keeper shelves and become instant favourites. I totally loved this book and Alex and Zoe. Hello, firefighters, enough said!
The characters, firehouse setting and storyline will feed your romance loving soul and will leave you feeling both happy that you’ve read it and disappointed that you’ve finished it and that the next book isn’t here yet. But you will finish it with a big goofy grin and with a new appreciation of the fire fighters who put their lives on the line every day and for the people who try so damn hard to make someone else’s life just a little better with a simple meal.
Alex Donovan has to be one of my favourite Kincaid hero’s. No it’s not just because he’s a firefighter. It’s the big heart that hides behind the daring outside that won me over. Yes Alex has no filter on his thoughts and has a reckless streak a mile wide but that’s who Alex is and he’s unapologetic about it. So when after a hot-headed move he gets sent to a soup kitchen as part of his probation he ends up doing a lot more than just biding his time till he’s done. Cue the swoon.
“He’d thought Zoe’s brazen side was beautiful, but her mettle was really just the flip side of her tenderness. God help him, he wanted her. All of her.”
As for Zoe Westin, I want her to be real so bad. I loved her grit, passion and determination to do something that she knows she is meant to do. Even if it means leaving a high profile restaurant to open up a much need soup kitchen in a chancy part of her hometown and with limited funding. This is what makes Zoe happy and she is going to succeed. All she needs is someone one to point out that it’s okay to ask for help. Good thing that comes in the form of Alex and his need to challenge and encourage Zoe.
“She knew she shouldn’t want him, with his rough edges and hot risks. But no matter how hard she tried to fight it, she couldn’t get past the truth. Alex Donovan made her want to break all her rules. And oh, how she didn’t hate it.”
As these two work together in the kitchen, things get hotter and hotter and I’m not just talking cooking heat. There no denying the attraction growing between them, too bad that Zoe’s dad is Alex’s boss and mentor. But after a dare to be reckless and a frightening incident brings them closer, they stop fighting and give in to the sparks. What neither expected was the connection and how deep and strong it becomes in a short amount of time. But when a call to a fire puts their new found happiness in jeopardy, can they find a way to be together and take the ultimate risk or will it prove to be too much?
“Where do you want me now?” Zoe’s eyes flashed open, her expression so sensual and wanting at the same time that it stole Alex’s breath. “Everywhere, Alex. I want you everywhere.”
Throw in some wonderful secondary characters who you will fall for, (I certainly did with Cole) a small town setting and that feeling you get when you read book that you know will stay with you long after you finish the last page and you have the latest bestseller from Kimberly Kincaid.
I don’t really like to compare authors, but if you love Jill Shalvis and Lori Foster, then you will love Kimberly Kincaid. Think small town romances that you can fall into and ones that make you want to pack your bags and move to a fictional town. If you haven’t already fallen in love with Kimberly Kincaid’s writing then you will after reading this book.
The characters, firehouse setting and storyline will feed your romance loving soul and will leave you feeling both happy that you’ve read it and disappointed that you’ve finished it and that the next book isn’t here yet. But you will finish it with a big goofy grin and with a new appreciation of the fire fighters who put their lives on the line every day and for the people who try so damn hard to make someone else’s life just a little better with a simple meal.
Alex Donovan has to be one of my favourite Kincaid hero’s. No it’s not just because he’s a firefighter. It’s the big heart that hides behind the daring outside that won me over. Yes Alex has no filter on his thoughts and has a reckless streak a mile wide but that’s who Alex is and he’s unapologetic about it. So when after a hot-headed move he gets sent to a soup kitchen as part of his probation he ends up doing a lot more than just biding his time till he’s done. Cue the swoon.
“He’d thought Zoe’s brazen side was beautiful, but her mettle was really just the flip side of her tenderness. God help him, he wanted her. All of her.”
As for Zoe Westin, I want her to be real so bad. I loved her grit, passion and determination to do something that she knows she is meant to do. Even if it means leaving a high profile restaurant to open up a much need soup kitchen in a chancy part of her hometown and with limited funding. This is what makes Zoe happy and she is going to succeed. All she needs is someone one to point out that it’s okay to ask for help. Good thing that comes in the form of Alex and his need to challenge and encourage Zoe.
“She knew she shouldn’t want him, with his rough edges and hot risks. But no matter how hard she tried to fight it, she couldn’t get past the truth. Alex Donovan made her want to break all her rules. And oh, how she didn’t hate it.”
As these two work together in the kitchen, things get hotter and hotter and I’m not just talking cooking heat. There no denying the attraction growing between them, too bad that Zoe’s dad is Alex’s boss and mentor. But after a dare to be reckless and a frightening incident brings them closer, they stop fighting and give in to the sparks. What neither expected was the connection and how deep and strong it becomes in a short amount of time. But when a call to a fire puts their new found happiness in jeopardy, can they find a way to be together and take the ultimate risk or will it prove to be too much?
“Where do you want me now?” Zoe’s eyes flashed open, her expression so sensual and wanting at the same time that it stole Alex’s breath. “Everywhere, Alex. I want you everywhere.”
Throw in some wonderful secondary characters who you will fall for, (I certainly did with Cole) a small town setting and that feeling you get when you read book that you know will stay with you long after you finish the last page and you have the latest bestseller from Kimberly Kincaid.
I don’t really like to compare authors, but if you love Jill Shalvis and Lori Foster, then you will love Kimberly Kincaid. Think small town romances that you can fall into and ones that make you want to pack your bags and move to a fictional town. If you haven’t already fallen in love with Kimberly Kincaid’s writing then you will after reading this book.
January 6, 2016
2.5 stars
Too much drama and smutty scenes.
I have no beef with Ms. Kincaid's writing. Most likely it's because I stumbled upon an obnoxious heroine that made me not enjoying this story as much as I thought I would.
This book is the first of new series RESCUE SQUAD, set in small town Fairview. The hero, Alex Donovan, was a firefighter with Station Eight and the heroine, Zoe Westin, was the Station Eight captain's only daughter who ran Hope House Shelter and Soup Kitchen. An incident with the rival house captain had Alex to do remediation program by doing community service at Zoe's Soup Kitchen. Asides knowing each other for years through house eight proximity, they had nothing in common whatsoever. Or so they thought. Before long, the animosity sparked fire no matter how hard these two tried to suppress their attraction.
There. What could possibly go wrong with that kind of plot?
Only, the story dragged too long. The push and pull between Alex and Zoe bored me, more so when Zoe got all saintly holier-than-thou her-way-or-the-highway with Alex. Making it like her work is the only good thing that ever came across Fairview. And as attractive as she found Alex, she wouldn't admit it because he was a firefighter, like her father; and firefighters were a bunch of reckless adrenaline junkie who risk their life with no thoughts of others. Okaaay...
On his part, Alex didn't want to act on his attraction simply because Zoe was his captain's daughter. Well, fine. He didn't want to incur his captain's wrath. Until the temptation got too strong.
From denying each other to suddenly couldn't get enough of one another... The reasoning was too shallow. What followed were pages after pages of graphic detail scenes. Until another drama occurred and Zoe went all woman's prerogative and changed her mind.
The good thing in this story was how station eight brotherhood and sisterhood came together to help and support Zoe and her Soup Kitchen. Yes, their convos often felt like coming out of DIE HARD dialogue script (those I could do without) but the bonding and we got your back sentiment was great. Another positive note was how Zoe's father finally opened up and talked to her daughter after years of awkward relationship.
After all the dragging, the ending seemed pretty rushed to me. Zoe seemed to have quite a number change of hearts and quick to blame Alex for almost anything. But I couldn't help to feel relief and wish the best of luck to Alex handling his wishy washy girlfriend.
ARC is kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the exchange of a fair and honest review.
Too much drama and smutty scenes.
I have no beef with Ms. Kincaid's writing. Most likely it's because I stumbled upon an obnoxious heroine that made me not enjoying this story as much as I thought I would.
This book is the first of new series RESCUE SQUAD, set in small town Fairview. The hero, Alex Donovan, was a firefighter with Station Eight and the heroine, Zoe Westin, was the Station Eight captain's only daughter who ran Hope House Shelter and Soup Kitchen. An incident with the rival house captain had Alex to do remediation program by doing community service at Zoe's Soup Kitchen. Asides knowing each other for years through house eight proximity, they had nothing in common whatsoever. Or so they thought. Before long, the animosity sparked fire no matter how hard these two tried to suppress their attraction.
There. What could possibly go wrong with that kind of plot?
Only, the story dragged too long. The push and pull between Alex and Zoe bored me, more so when Zoe got all saintly holier-than-thou her-way-or-the-highway with Alex. Making it like her work is the only good thing that ever came across Fairview. And as attractive as she found Alex, she wouldn't admit it because he was a firefighter, like her father; and firefighters were a bunch of reckless adrenaline junkie who risk their life with no thoughts of others. Okaaay...
On his part, Alex didn't want to act on his attraction simply because Zoe was his captain's daughter. Well, fine. He didn't want to incur his captain's wrath. Until the temptation got too strong.
From denying each other to suddenly couldn't get enough of one another... The reasoning was too shallow. What followed were pages after pages of graphic detail scenes. Until another drama occurred and Zoe went all woman's prerogative and changed her mind.
The good thing in this story was how station eight brotherhood and sisterhood came together to help and support Zoe and her Soup Kitchen. Yes, their convos often felt like coming out of DIE HARD dialogue script (those I could do without) but the bonding and we got your back sentiment was great. Another positive note was how Zoe's father finally opened up and talked to her daughter after years of awkward relationship.
After all the dragging, the ending seemed pretty rushed to me. Zoe seemed to have quite a number change of hearts and quick to blame Alex for almost anything. But I couldn't help to feel relief and wish the best of luck to Alex handling his wishy washy girlfriend.
ARC is kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the exchange of a fair and honest review.
February 3, 2016
✦Blog Tour, Review & Giveaway: Reckless (The Rescue Squad) by Kimberly Kincaid http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-3RX
Publication Date: January 26, 2016
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas Donna
Rated 4 Stars
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3 Paperback Copies of RECKLESS (U.S. Only)
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Publication Date: January 26, 2016
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas Donna
Rated 4 Stars
I loved the angle of this story and how it all wound together to show that we all take risks, even if we don’t see it ourselves. Besides, who wouldn’t love those risks surrounded by hot firemen! It took a little while to warm up to Alex but boy when I did it was all the way, I just didn’t connect with Zoe though and I really wanted to. But thankfully the steamy romance between the two was hot enough to overcome that. I’m really enjoying the Rescue Squad Series and how Ms. Kincaid lets each squad member’s personality through while making them a cohesive group. It was sexy, funny and touching, I cannot wait to visit with them again!
*Review copy provided by Kensington in exchange for an honest review.
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3 Paperback Copies of RECKLESS (U.S. Only)
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January 12, 2016
In Reckless, Kimberly Kincaid has penned a wonderful story about a firefighter who seems to take a lot of risks in a job already fraught with unknown factors and a chef who opted to take her promising career and open a soup kitchen. Meet Alex Donovan, charmer and good looking firefighter at Station 8 whose over the top zealousness in his job has landed him in an administrative hot water. Community service for 4 weeks without pay is his sentence and serves it in the soup kitchen. The one soup kitchen who happens to be managed by Zoe Westin, the daughter of the captain that Alex looks up to and owes his career on. Zoe remembers Alex all too clearly. She had a major crush on him five years ago and risked a little bit of her pride then. But now this walking talking charmer needs to pull his weight or he's booted out of her kitchen. She has more problems to tend to than an adrenaline junkie that also revs up her engine from zero to sixty. They never bargain that their attraction can be anything more than that but once they give in to it, both Zoe and Alex find out that they want something more. But can their beginning relationship weather the risks they both face.
I loved Reckless, Ms. Kincaid tells a story that delves on both characters development not just in the context of their romantic relationship but also in how their jobs, decisions and even relationships make them the individual that they are. And so when the conflict arrives, there is a concrete and real impasse on how will this relationship ever going to work. Reckless is also the first book in a new series so it does a wonderful set up on possible protagonists in succeeding books without taking away from Alex and Zoe's story. This is a smart romance with witty dialogue, extremely sexy scenes between our main leads and a great story about individual differences and how it highlights a truly wonderful relationship.
*ARC provided thru NetGalley by the publisher*
I loved Reckless, Ms. Kincaid tells a story that delves on both characters development not just in the context of their romantic relationship but also in how their jobs, decisions and even relationships make them the individual that they are. And so when the conflict arrives, there is a concrete and real impasse on how will this relationship ever going to work. Reckless is also the first book in a new series so it does a wonderful set up on possible protagonists in succeeding books without taking away from Alex and Zoe's story. This is a smart romance with witty dialogue, extremely sexy scenes between our main leads and a great story about individual differences and how it highlights a truly wonderful relationship.
*ARC provided thru NetGalley by the publisher*
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