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Survivors Find Love #1
Painting with Fire
A firefighter can battle a raging blaze, but the spark he discovers with his BFF’s nephew threatens to turn him to ash.
Charlie Fox’s job as a firefighter couldn’t have prepared him for the interest that flares between him and shy Bastian Hart. Since Bastian is Charlie’s best friend’s nephew, Charlie hesitates to get involved, but can’t help but be drawn to the young artist.
Bastian has created a sanctuary for himself on San Juan Island’s Friday Harbor to avoid his dysfunctional family. When a death in the family drags his aunt back home to stay with him, he never expects to meet a man like Charlie.
Will the flame between them ignite a real bond or fizzle out?
Note: This MM romance features a Native American firefighter, a spicy redhead with a passion for painting dolls, and a lot of family drama which ends up in a best friend's brother, hurt/comfort romance.
Charlie Fox’s job as a firefighter couldn’t have prepared him for the interest that flares between him and shy Bastian Hart. Since Bastian is Charlie’s best friend’s nephew, Charlie hesitates to get involved, but can’t help but be drawn to the young artist.
Bastian has created a sanctuary for himself on San Juan Island’s Friday Harbor to avoid his dysfunctional family. When a death in the family drags his aunt back home to stay with him, he never expects to meet a man like Charlie.
Will the flame between them ignite a real bond or fizzle out?
Note: This MM romance features a Native American firefighter, a spicy redhead with a passion for painting dolls, and a lot of family drama which ends up in a best friend's brother, hurt/comfort romance.
173 pages, ebook
First published December 2, 2016
74 people are currently reading
398 people want to read
About the author
Lissa Kasey
73 books667 followersLissa Kasey is Ace/Aro and ENBY. Lissa's storytelling specializes in in-depth characters, detailed world building, sweet and spicy romance, and twisting plots to keep you clinging to the page.
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October 12, 2023
“I never thought anyone could make me feel the way you do. Never thought I’d miss someone so much whom I barely knew. And every time I’d get a goofy text or one of your rambling phone calls it left my heart aching more. I missed you every second you were gone, and prayed every day for your safe return.” He sucked in a deep breath. “I love you. My heart hurts when you’re not here, but I can share. I understand sometimes you’ll have to go. As long as I know you’re coming back to me, I can survive it. I will wait for you.”
i did a thing.
a thing i wish i had done before, and that’s that i removed almost every book from my tbr. i’m down to the 40s, and while it may grow a little bit later, i’m gonna be keeping it short. i realized that the books on my tbr would never get read, and it was frustrating for me to have all these books set as “want to read” but i’d continue to read anything that wasn’t added. i grew annoyed with myself and just said “fuck it.” because i don’t consider myself a moody reader anymore (thank fuck because i hate the thought of being a moody reader again), it’s easier for me to read whatever i want, whenever i want. i realized that i read more when i don’t plan books. plus, i don’t even look at my tbr when looking at what to read. i’d normally choose my books after a review i saw or i saw the book on a list, and then i realize the book is on my tbr or it’s one i’ve wanted to read. basically, it’s a little pointless for me now that i think about it since the books get added and i don’t even look back at them. because of this, i removed the books, and decided to count on whatever catches my interest in the moment. that’s how i came across this lovely hidden gem — through a random release list where this was added, and i read the blurb, and immediately downloaded it on KU. featuring a native american firefighter and a shy, anxious ginger who paints dolls that turns into a hurt/comfort story, i was ready to breeze through it.
despite the three stars, this was quite lovely. it’s a slow story, mellow, soft, and enjoyably ordinary. one of the only things that faltered my enjoyment is that i felt there was a little too much focus on the outside world between the main characters more towards the beginning. while realistic in a logical sense, i’m one to care more about characters and the romance first before anything, so the world outside of our main characters, charlie and bastian, felt overcrowding. it wasn’t boring in a bad sense, just a little overtaking. there were a couple scenes i wish we were told about instead of shown, and vice versa. however, ignoring that, the relationship between the two young men and the overall distinction of their voices were captured well.
this is my first time reading this author, and i can say i’m a fan of the straightforwardness of their writing. i’m not sure if their other books are like this, but it makes the process of reading easier. i always appreciate when authors don’t force any prose or distinct style to their books that don’t suit them. it’s noticiable when it’s written well and when it tries too hard. the writing here captured the voices of the characters sharply enough. there’s also enough detail on the graphics of the story to get an idea of the imagery presented.
i just found out this author is not only ace, but also aro, an enby. i’m not sure if all their books feature any sort of representation of these three identities, but the asexual and aromantic representation of jessie felt realistic, nothing too jarring, stereotypical, or pushy. there was never a time i felt like the author made jessie’s asexuality and aromanticism her personality; they were simply a part of who she was without drowning her in stereotypes and false beliefs. also, i loved the realisticness of bastian not instantly healing from his childhood trauma just because he found love. i especially appreciated how sex itself was not used as a healing form to make him forget. there are moments where bastian is still hesitant and weary, and while he begins to learn how to trust charlie, it’s still obvious they have long ways to go in terms of their sexual relationship. i like how bastian brought up how he may be worried he won’t want to have penetrative sex, or how he isn’t sure how much further he could take it besides kissing and blow/hand jobs. i think this showed a stronger view point of childhood trauma related to being sexually abused as a child (especially) and how the process of healing takes time. because the book is short, we don’t get a full glimpse into it, but by the end of the story, we’re aware enough of how much bastian and charlie are still learning about each other in terms of what they both like and want.
“Don’t hate me, Charlie. Please. Just ‘cause I’m not ready now, doesn’t mean I won’t ever be.”
the characters have distinct voices. sometimes authors fail to write their characters voices distinctly, making it difficult to tell them apart, unaware of how similar they look even with different perspectives.
even though this is single-pov and i do prefer dual-pov, i still felt like i learned enough about bastian through the eyes of charlie. they’re both unique enough, but especially bastian. not only is the name new for me, but i like his artistic style. he makes his life by painting dolls, which i found super interesting. he makes them realistic, so it’s not the same kind as the plastic kind but instead put together through realistic materials, including clothing and hair. he copes with it, both healthily and unhealthily, as he struggles with sleeping, has anxiety, and struggles opening up. due to being sexually abused from ages 10-12, he has a hard time accepting who he is at times, even though it never ventures into any sort of internalized homophobia, just confusion and uncertainties. the doubt and niggles bastian feels is portrayed achingly real, which are heartfelt and depressing.
the hurt/comfort theme comes through charlie, who is bastian’s aunts best friend. charlie is well-mannered, respectful, and analytical. being half-native american and gay, he has had his own family issues and drama as well as personal demons, but he doesn’t compare it to what bastian has been through. being a firefighter makes him kind-hearted by nature, so he becomes a sort of safe space for bastian through their proximity of charlie and jessie (bastian’s aunt) staying at bastian’s house. there are plenty and enough moments between the two where we see their friendship growing. charlie is naturally domestic, enjoying moments of cooking, watching tv, and helping bastian with his doll-making/painting process. he’s also very perceptive, always making sure bastian is comfortable enough with what he eats, where he stands, and how he feels. while only a few years older than bastian, he has a bigger care-taking role but one he enjoys.
“I look at you and see…” He trembled at the thought of how much he’d be revealing, “I see my heart. I look at you and worry what will happen the next time I get called to a fire and have to leave you alone. I look at you and see passion, imagination, creation, and perseverance. I look at you and think this is what I’ve been looking for. Someone whose smile warms my heart. Whose hand in mine makes every day better.”
the story has its themes and moments of depressive moments but doesn’t make the story gloomy all around. there’s still enough love shown between the pages of the characters to make it enjoyable for us who read these stories. there are no harsh tones that change the story’s voice. there’s absolutely no relationship angst either. the only thing almost stopping the two from being together is a last-minute call jessie and charlie get from their respective duties. yet when charlie promises bastian he’ll be back, he means it, not hesitating to accept his feelings and desires of being with bastian; not just as a friend but also as a lover. plus, with bastian being weary and hesitant, it made sense that he was afraid and thought the worst of the relationship. yet there’s nothing to worry about as charlie is not one to play with emotions and feelings.
overall, this was sweet, even if it won’t stick with me for the longest time.
“Please be here in the morning,” Bastian whispered.
“Not going anywhere,” Charlie promised, and he meant it.
i did a thing.
a thing i wish i had done before, and that’s that i removed almost every book from my tbr. i’m down to the 40s, and while it may grow a little bit later, i’m gonna be keeping it short. i realized that the books on my tbr would never get read, and it was frustrating for me to have all these books set as “want to read” but i’d continue to read anything that wasn’t added. i grew annoyed with myself and just said “fuck it.” because i don’t consider myself a moody reader anymore (thank fuck because i hate the thought of being a moody reader again), it’s easier for me to read whatever i want, whenever i want. i realized that i read more when i don’t plan books. plus, i don’t even look at my tbr when looking at what to read. i’d normally choose my books after a review i saw or i saw the book on a list, and then i realize the book is on my tbr or it’s one i’ve wanted to read. basically, it’s a little pointless for me now that i think about it since the books get added and i don’t even look back at them. because of this, i removed the books, and decided to count on whatever catches my interest in the moment. that’s how i came across this lovely hidden gem — through a random release list where this was added, and i read the blurb, and immediately downloaded it on KU. featuring a native american firefighter and a shy, anxious ginger who paints dolls that turns into a hurt/comfort story, i was ready to breeze through it.
despite the three stars, this was quite lovely. it’s a slow story, mellow, soft, and enjoyably ordinary. one of the only things that faltered my enjoyment is that i felt there was a little too much focus on the outside world between the main characters more towards the beginning. while realistic in a logical sense, i’m one to care more about characters and the romance first before anything, so the world outside of our main characters, charlie and bastian, felt overcrowding. it wasn’t boring in a bad sense, just a little overtaking. there were a couple scenes i wish we were told about instead of shown, and vice versa. however, ignoring that, the relationship between the two young men and the overall distinction of their voices were captured well.
this is my first time reading this author, and i can say i’m a fan of the straightforwardness of their writing. i’m not sure if their other books are like this, but it makes the process of reading easier. i always appreciate when authors don’t force any prose or distinct style to their books that don’t suit them. it’s noticiable when it’s written well and when it tries too hard. the writing here captured the voices of the characters sharply enough. there’s also enough detail on the graphics of the story to get an idea of the imagery presented.
i just found out this author is not only ace, but also aro, an enby. i’m not sure if all their books feature any sort of representation of these three identities, but the asexual and aromantic representation of jessie felt realistic, nothing too jarring, stereotypical, or pushy. there was never a time i felt like the author made jessie’s asexuality and aromanticism her personality; they were simply a part of who she was without drowning her in stereotypes and false beliefs. also, i loved the realisticness of bastian not instantly healing from his childhood trauma just because he found love. i especially appreciated how sex itself was not used as a healing form to make him forget. there are moments where bastian is still hesitant and weary, and while he begins to learn how to trust charlie, it’s still obvious they have long ways to go in terms of their sexual relationship. i like how bastian brought up how he may be worried he won’t want to have penetrative sex, or how he isn’t sure how much further he could take it besides kissing and blow/hand jobs. i think this showed a stronger view point of childhood trauma related to being sexually abused as a child (especially) and how the process of healing takes time. because the book is short, we don’t get a full glimpse into it, but by the end of the story, we’re aware enough of how much bastian and charlie are still learning about each other in terms of what they both like and want.
“Don’t hate me, Charlie. Please. Just ‘cause I’m not ready now, doesn’t mean I won’t ever be.”
the characters have distinct voices. sometimes authors fail to write their characters voices distinctly, making it difficult to tell them apart, unaware of how similar they look even with different perspectives.
even though this is single-pov and i do prefer dual-pov, i still felt like i learned enough about bastian through the eyes of charlie. they’re both unique enough, but especially bastian. not only is the name new for me, but i like his artistic style. he makes his life by painting dolls, which i found super interesting. he makes them realistic, so it’s not the same kind as the plastic kind but instead put together through realistic materials, including clothing and hair. he copes with it, both healthily and unhealthily, as he struggles with sleeping, has anxiety, and struggles opening up. due to being sexually abused from ages 10-12, he has a hard time accepting who he is at times, even though it never ventures into any sort of internalized homophobia, just confusion and uncertainties. the doubt and niggles bastian feels is portrayed achingly real, which are heartfelt and depressing.
the hurt/comfort theme comes through charlie, who is bastian’s aunts best friend. charlie is well-mannered, respectful, and analytical. being half-native american and gay, he has had his own family issues and drama as well as personal demons, but he doesn’t compare it to what bastian has been through. being a firefighter makes him kind-hearted by nature, so he becomes a sort of safe space for bastian through their proximity of charlie and jessie (bastian’s aunt) staying at bastian’s house. there are plenty and enough moments between the two where we see their friendship growing. charlie is naturally domestic, enjoying moments of cooking, watching tv, and helping bastian with his doll-making/painting process. he’s also very perceptive, always making sure bastian is comfortable enough with what he eats, where he stands, and how he feels. while only a few years older than bastian, he has a bigger care-taking role but one he enjoys.
“I look at you and see…” He trembled at the thought of how much he’d be revealing, “I see my heart. I look at you and worry what will happen the next time I get called to a fire and have to leave you alone. I look at you and see passion, imagination, creation, and perseverance. I look at you and think this is what I’ve been looking for. Someone whose smile warms my heart. Whose hand in mine makes every day better.”
the story has its themes and moments of depressive moments but doesn’t make the story gloomy all around. there’s still enough love shown between the pages of the characters to make it enjoyable for us who read these stories. there are no harsh tones that change the story’s voice. there’s absolutely no relationship angst either. the only thing almost stopping the two from being together is a last-minute call jessie and charlie get from their respective duties. yet when charlie promises bastian he’ll be back, he means it, not hesitating to accept his feelings and desires of being with bastian; not just as a friend but also as a lover. plus, with bastian being weary and hesitant, it made sense that he was afraid and thought the worst of the relationship. yet there’s nothing to worry about as charlie is not one to play with emotions and feelings.
overall, this was sweet, even if it won’t stick with me for the longest time.
“Please be here in the morning,” Bastian whispered.
“Not going anywhere,” Charlie promised, and he meant it.
November 28, 2016
4.5 stars
Few months back one of my friends shared this amazing video on Facebook about an artist creating a doll named “The Scarecrow”. The artist’s name is Jim Mckenzie and here is the link to his video: The Scarecrow. I was awed by such an amazing talent and I became a prompt fan of the art of doll making. So when the blurb of this book came around, I was overjoyed to be able to read about this exquisite art.
“Painting with Fire” is a broken/damaged hero romance with a whole lot of emotional ups and downs while also boasting a beautiful healing/comfort romance. I loved the MCs and the “sane” secondary characters. There were a few characters whom I wanted to punch on their face but they were the reason behind the angst of the story so I guess I had to endure them till the end. I enjoyed reading this romance very much. It made me smile, cry, love and sometimes bat-shit crazy (U will get what I mean after you read this!!!). But that amazing HEA made everything worthwhile at the end.
Charlie Fox comes to Friday Harbor to help his best friend, Jessie cope with her crazy family when she had to go back home to attend her mother’s funeral. Jessie’s nephew, Bastian Hart who is also estranged from his family puts them up in his house. Bastian is a doll painter and is highly successful at the young age of twenty two. His chosen profession is not very popular with his family so he sticks to his house, doing what he loves with very minimal outside interference. Charlie finds himself caring for the lonely and delicate, Bastian. He knows that there are huge scars and baggages he has to wade through to love Bastian and he is determined to give him as much love as he requires to cure his broken psyche. Bastian’s past makes him hesitant to trust Charlie but with his help he does learn to love and live like he truly deserved.
The story flowed very nicely. The meeting of our MCs and their initial interactions were very tentative and delicate. Charlie really tried to know Bastian and was completely invested in loving him and cherishing him. Charlie starts their relationship more as friends trying to get Bastian out of his shell but on the way he falls for him wholeheartedly. Bastian’s family was a nightmare and he carries scars from a shitty childhood. He has rose above his past and made a successful career which was really commendable. But he was still emotionally wounded which has affected his personal life immensely. For the first time, he could really trust someone to love him and it happens because of Charlie’s understanding, support and compassion. This was a true survivor story.
I loved the romance. It was like a fragile bud at the beginning which blooms into an amazingly beautiful flower at the end. I loved how Bastian gets support not only from Charlie but also from few decent members of his family. His healing process was nicely described. I loved the way Charlie nurtures their blooming relationship and always had Bastian’s back. There is no angst in the romance department so you are in for a great treat.
The setting of the story was another winning point for me. Bastian’s house with its spectacular surroundings was just perfect for this beautiful romance. The ambience was very soothing and I loved it very much. Bastian’s profession as a doll maker is another thing which was a huge part of the romance. It was a major part of who Bastian was and the author uses it to give us a peek into Bastian’s mind and heart. I was already a fan of this art so I really enjoyed the details about it that Bastian shares with us in this story.
All in all this book is a great healing/comfort romance with a nice HEA. The characters were complicated and the author had done a brilliant job in making them so real that anyone can connect to with ease. Bastian with his sweet demeanor and amazing talent whereas Charlie with his big heart and capacity to give love won my heart over and over!!! I would recommend this book to all!!!
*This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
Few months back one of my friends shared this amazing video on Facebook about an artist creating a doll named “The Scarecrow”. The artist’s name is Jim Mckenzie and here is the link to his video: The Scarecrow. I was awed by such an amazing talent and I became a prompt fan of the art of doll making. So when the blurb of this book came around, I was overjoyed to be able to read about this exquisite art.
“Painting with Fire” is a broken/damaged hero romance with a whole lot of emotional ups and downs while also boasting a beautiful healing/comfort romance. I loved the MCs and the “sane” secondary characters. There were a few characters whom I wanted to punch on their face but they were the reason behind the angst of the story so I guess I had to endure them till the end. I enjoyed reading this romance very much. It made me smile, cry, love and sometimes bat-shit crazy (U will get what I mean after you read this!!!). But that amazing HEA made everything worthwhile at the end.
Charlie Fox comes to Friday Harbor to help his best friend, Jessie cope with her crazy family when she had to go back home to attend her mother’s funeral. Jessie’s nephew, Bastian Hart who is also estranged from his family puts them up in his house. Bastian is a doll painter and is highly successful at the young age of twenty two. His chosen profession is not very popular with his family so he sticks to his house, doing what he loves with very minimal outside interference. Charlie finds himself caring for the lonely and delicate, Bastian. He knows that there are huge scars and baggages he has to wade through to love Bastian and he is determined to give him as much love as he requires to cure his broken psyche. Bastian’s past makes him hesitant to trust Charlie but with his help he does learn to love and live like he truly deserved.
The story flowed very nicely. The meeting of our MCs and their initial interactions were very tentative and delicate. Charlie really tried to know Bastian and was completely invested in loving him and cherishing him. Charlie starts their relationship more as friends trying to get Bastian out of his shell but on the way he falls for him wholeheartedly. Bastian’s family was a nightmare and he carries scars from a shitty childhood. He has rose above his past and made a successful career which was really commendable. But he was still emotionally wounded which has affected his personal life immensely. For the first time, he could really trust someone to love him and it happens because of Charlie’s understanding, support and compassion. This was a true survivor story.
I loved the romance. It was like a fragile bud at the beginning which blooms into an amazingly beautiful flower at the end. I loved how Bastian gets support not only from Charlie but also from few decent members of his family. His healing process was nicely described. I loved the way Charlie nurtures their blooming relationship and always had Bastian’s back. There is no angst in the romance department so you are in for a great treat.
The setting of the story was another winning point for me. Bastian’s house with its spectacular surroundings was just perfect for this beautiful romance. The ambience was very soothing and I loved it very much. Bastian’s profession as a doll maker is another thing which was a huge part of the romance. It was a major part of who Bastian was and the author uses it to give us a peek into Bastian’s mind and heart. I was already a fan of this art so I really enjoyed the details about it that Bastian shares with us in this story.
All in all this book is a great healing/comfort romance with a nice HEA. The characters were complicated and the author had done a brilliant job in making them so real that anyone can connect to with ease. Bastian with his sweet demeanor and amazing talent whereas Charlie with his big heart and capacity to give love won my heart over and over!!! I would recommend this book to all!!!
*This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
November 23, 2017
Leí el segundo de la segundo de la serie en primer lugar, en el aparecen Bastian y Christian, de este libro, y me gustaron tanto como pareja que lo que hice inmediatamente después de terminar es leer su historia. El resultado ha sido un tanto decepcionante. Toda la relación de los protagonistas es muy precipitada, hay muy poca elaboración o construcción de cómo se enamoran y por qué, y el pasado traumático de Bastian está tocado con muy poca profundidad por no decir, que con ninguna. Por otro lado, no me he aburrido, pero le sobran al libro, en mi opinión, muchos muchos párrafos sobre el arte de pintar muñecas, entiendo que para quien sea su hobby le interesará muchísimo, pero para los que no nos interesa con algún detalle era suficiente.
2.5 estrellas que subo a 3 por los protagonistas.
2.5 estrellas que subo a 3 por los protagonistas.
December 16, 2016
Painting with Fire is author Lissa Kasey’s latest release, and it is just beautiful. There are times when an author’s passion for their subject matter really shines, and this novel is a prime example of what happens when a story is created with great care and in-depth research. Along with intricate details, there is a slow burning relationship that develops over the course of the book, which allowed for the reader to become fully invested in the two main characters and their future together. Honestly, this author just continues to grow in her writing ability, and has honed her craft to the point where her stories just come alive on the page and carry you right into the center of the action.
In Painting with Fire, we are introduced to two career wildfire firefighters who travel to wherever they are needed to control conflagrations that threaten wildlife and human life alike. Always on call, Charlie and his best friend, Jessie, have been friends and roommates for a long time. While both have a past, it is Jessie who is the real survivor, having been molested by a brother and verbally abused by both parents for years as a child. Her family is dysfunctional, with a capitol D, and her sister went on to repeat the pattern of abuse by marrying a sex offender her second time around, and allowing him around her own children. One of those is Jessie’s nephew Bastian, who was also abused by his stepfather. Now Jessie’s mother has died and it is Bastian, a successful artist, who is paying for the funeral. Although her sister does not speak to her since Jessie turned in her lying, abusive second husband, Jessie is going to the funeral and Charlie has offered to go along for support.
Bastian is in his early twenties and rather reclusive, spending his time painting dolls. Before you roll your eyes, these are not just any dolls but delicate creations that, when done well, appear almost lifelike. They also fetch a huge price on the collector’s market. Bastian is most definitely successful, but his fragile appearance barely hides the damaged soul within. As so many abuse victims do, Bastian carries both crippling shame and guilt that have almost stunted his ability to relate to and draw close to people. And so, he leads a lonely existence, surrounded by acres of beautiful woodlands in his remote estate, spending time creating beautiful masterpieces and doing YouTube educational videos on the art of doll painting. When Jessie and Charlie come to stay with him during the funeral, Charlie is instantly drawn to the quiet young man, but his life as a firefighter does not allow for long-term lasting relationships, for, let’s face it, who wants to wait months for their lover to return from fighting fires clear across the country? Plus, Bastian is so intensely shy that the idea of opening up to anyone, much less pursuing another man, is far from a reality for him. So Charlie does what he does best—offers friendship—and that is the key to opening up Bastian’s world and letting Charlie slowly come in. Hopefully to stay.
This rather bare bones synopsis cannot do this gorgeous novel real justice. The slow and steady coming out for Bastian that reveals his real strengths and compassionate and caring side is just lovely to read. While Charlie seems almost too good to be true, he is rooted in realism and we are privy to his fears, his dreams and his growing love for Bastian. Interwoven throughout is the ongoing saga of a family that has been torn apart by abuse and neglect, and the way in which this author deals with those delicate subjects is clearly an act of real love and respect for anyone who has been unalterably changed due to their horrible past. And the icing on this cake is the incredible detail used in explaining and discussing the art of doll painting. Never overwhelming or bogged down by too much detail, I learned so much about this intricate craft. Honestly, this story is just top notch from beginning to end. There was intense action juxtaposed by peaceful, intimate moments where you could sense the healing of wounded spirits taking place. Jessie and Charlie’s relationship was a triumph of friendship and loyalty. They fully supported one another, both in the field and in private, and given their pasts, that was a huge thing for both of them. But it is really Bastian who triumphs in this story, learning to develop trust in another person that both opened up a whole new sexual world and an internal confidence that really allowed him to live life again.
Painting with Fire is a lush, poignant story that will draw you in immediately and hold you enthralled to the last page. It is a gorgeous victory of the spirit and a testament to survival, one that should not be missed. I highly recommend it to you.
Reviewed by Sammy for The Novel Approach Reviews
In Painting with Fire, we are introduced to two career wildfire firefighters who travel to wherever they are needed to control conflagrations that threaten wildlife and human life alike. Always on call, Charlie and his best friend, Jessie, have been friends and roommates for a long time. While both have a past, it is Jessie who is the real survivor, having been molested by a brother and verbally abused by both parents for years as a child. Her family is dysfunctional, with a capitol D, and her sister went on to repeat the pattern of abuse by marrying a sex offender her second time around, and allowing him around her own children. One of those is Jessie’s nephew Bastian, who was also abused by his stepfather. Now Jessie’s mother has died and it is Bastian, a successful artist, who is paying for the funeral. Although her sister does not speak to her since Jessie turned in her lying, abusive second husband, Jessie is going to the funeral and Charlie has offered to go along for support.
Bastian is in his early twenties and rather reclusive, spending his time painting dolls. Before you roll your eyes, these are not just any dolls but delicate creations that, when done well, appear almost lifelike. They also fetch a huge price on the collector’s market. Bastian is most definitely successful, but his fragile appearance barely hides the damaged soul within. As so many abuse victims do, Bastian carries both crippling shame and guilt that have almost stunted his ability to relate to and draw close to people. And so, he leads a lonely existence, surrounded by acres of beautiful woodlands in his remote estate, spending time creating beautiful masterpieces and doing YouTube educational videos on the art of doll painting. When Jessie and Charlie come to stay with him during the funeral, Charlie is instantly drawn to the quiet young man, but his life as a firefighter does not allow for long-term lasting relationships, for, let’s face it, who wants to wait months for their lover to return from fighting fires clear across the country? Plus, Bastian is so intensely shy that the idea of opening up to anyone, much less pursuing another man, is far from a reality for him. So Charlie does what he does best—offers friendship—and that is the key to opening up Bastian’s world and letting Charlie slowly come in. Hopefully to stay.
This rather bare bones synopsis cannot do this gorgeous novel real justice. The slow and steady coming out for Bastian that reveals his real strengths and compassionate and caring side is just lovely to read. While Charlie seems almost too good to be true, he is rooted in realism and we are privy to his fears, his dreams and his growing love for Bastian. Interwoven throughout is the ongoing saga of a family that has been torn apart by abuse and neglect, and the way in which this author deals with those delicate subjects is clearly an act of real love and respect for anyone who has been unalterably changed due to their horrible past. And the icing on this cake is the incredible detail used in explaining and discussing the art of doll painting. Never overwhelming or bogged down by too much detail, I learned so much about this intricate craft. Honestly, this story is just top notch from beginning to end. There was intense action juxtaposed by peaceful, intimate moments where you could sense the healing of wounded spirits taking place. Jessie and Charlie’s relationship was a triumph of friendship and loyalty. They fully supported one another, both in the field and in private, and given their pasts, that was a huge thing for both of them. But it is really Bastian who triumphs in this story, learning to develop trust in another person that both opened up a whole new sexual world and an internal confidence that really allowed him to live life again.
Painting with Fire is a lush, poignant story that will draw you in immediately and hold you enthralled to the last page. It is a gorgeous victory of the spirit and a testament to survival, one that should not be missed. I highly recommend it to you.
Reviewed by Sammy for The Novel Approach Reviews
June 8, 2020
'Painting With Fire' is a deeply emotional story filled with hope and love. I'm grateful to the author for writing it and exposing some of the horrors that so many people in this country suffer through. It is hard for me to read it because I had an idyllic childhood compared to Bastian and Jessie, so I have difficulty relating to what they endured, although it certainly breaks my heart. I think Charlie and Bastian's story is a wondrous tale of escaping the dark and reaching the light.
Charlie and Jessie are wildfire firefighters and have been best friends for ten years. Jessie’s mom recently died and even though they hadn't spoken in all of those years, Jessie and Charlie head north to Washington and the beautiful San Juan Islands to stay on Friday Harbor with Jessie's nephew, Bastian. Bastian has little to no contact with his mom and sisters who are an hour away and, in fact, he communicates more with his aunt than anyone else in the family. To say there is a history of abuse, neglect, and disinterest toward Bastian from his mom is a mild way to phrase it. That and a general hatred toward him for his successful career choice of painting dolls but not sharing his wealth with them.
Bastian is an artist and the dolls he paints can command in the thousands of dollars. I learned a lot about Asian ball joint dolls and all the myriad ways they can be painted and dressed. Plus Bastian does YouTube instructional videos and has a Patreon page where his fans can watch him create his works of art. It was really rather fascinating and kept me from getting too bogged down into the horror that constituted Bastian’s mother and sisters. Personally, I felt Jessie and Bastian were too nice to these people who had done nothing but hurt them.
Charlie and Bastian's story is a genuine and beautiful love story. I adore the way Charlie is with Bastian, respecting his feelings and his concerns, without ever making Bastian feel wrong about his thoughts and anxieties. I especially like the way Charlie is fascinated with the dolls and Bastian's art, and doesn't make Bastian feel weird. Bastian brings a sense of home to Charlie (and Jessie) that is desperately needed for someone who can be gone for months at a time. Charlie needs to have a home and Bastian is ready to make one with him.
A beautiful story that was filled with love and hope. There was a little angst, especially near the end, but nothing so overwhelming that I felt drowned in it. Mostly I just drowned in the beauty of the island, the friendship Jessie and Charlie share, and the love that grew between Bastian and Charlie.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
Charlie and Jessie are wildfire firefighters and have been best friends for ten years. Jessie’s mom recently died and even though they hadn't spoken in all of those years, Jessie and Charlie head north to Washington and the beautiful San Juan Islands to stay on Friday Harbor with Jessie's nephew, Bastian. Bastian has little to no contact with his mom and sisters who are an hour away and, in fact, he communicates more with his aunt than anyone else in the family. To say there is a history of abuse, neglect, and disinterest toward Bastian from his mom is a mild way to phrase it. That and a general hatred toward him for his successful career choice of painting dolls but not sharing his wealth with them.
Bastian is an artist and the dolls he paints can command in the thousands of dollars. I learned a lot about Asian ball joint dolls and all the myriad ways they can be painted and dressed. Plus Bastian does YouTube instructional videos and has a Patreon page where his fans can watch him create his works of art. It was really rather fascinating and kept me from getting too bogged down into the horror that constituted Bastian’s mother and sisters. Personally, I felt Jessie and Bastian were too nice to these people who had done nothing but hurt them.
Charlie and Bastian's story is a genuine and beautiful love story. I adore the way Charlie is with Bastian, respecting his feelings and his concerns, without ever making Bastian feel wrong about his thoughts and anxieties. I especially like the way Charlie is fascinated with the dolls and Bastian's art, and doesn't make Bastian feel weird. Bastian brings a sense of home to Charlie (and Jessie) that is desperately needed for someone who can be gone for months at a time. Charlie needs to have a home and Bastian is ready to make one with him.
A beautiful story that was filled with love and hope. There was a little angst, especially near the end, but nothing so overwhelming that I felt drowned in it. Mostly I just drowned in the beauty of the island, the friendship Jessie and Charlie share, and the love that grew between Bastian and Charlie.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
January 4, 2017
I'm giving it 3.5, but it kept me up and hour past bedtime so I could finish so it wasn't that I didn't like it, but some of it just kind of rubbed me wrong.
I liked Bastian and his doll career. I know those jointed dolls are really popular in Asian/collector culture, I'm not to into it otherwise, but I can believe he could make a nice career at it if he's good. I just found everyone was a bit too... whatever they were. If you were nice, you were the nicest ever. If you were evil, you were the most evil. If you were a bitch, you were the bitchiest. If you were delicate, the most delicate.
I also found some of it a bit preachy, the ongoing "asexual/aromantic" definitions and bringing it up in conversation came across as a bit preachy. Although I'm sure that's because I know what that means now, 3 or 4 years ago I might have appreciated the background more. Sadly I know that the fact that sexual abusers often get nearly non-existent sentences is all too true if anger-making although I surprised that Bastian's abuser would now, 10 years later try to terrorize him. Those guys go after kids, but then I guess he was just an asshole.
I was glad that there was no magical "cure" for Bastian after falling in love. And I actually liked Bastian's father and girlfriend a great deal for the short amount of time they were on page. They seemed the most "normal" of the lot. The one thing though in the epilogue, Charlie mentions wanting to make love to Bastian at his mother's house. What?! It sounded like it would be the first time and you're going to do it at you parent's house? Ack! No. Not the first time. LOL Maybe I misread. It was late. ;-)
If you like slow build-up and a bit of a hurt/comfort and can handle abuse themes (not detailed descriptions or anything), it will probably be right up your alley. And as I said, it sucked me in so it had something going for it.
I liked Bastian and his doll career. I know those jointed dolls are really popular in Asian/collector culture, I'm not to into it otherwise, but I can believe he could make a nice career at it if he's good. I just found everyone was a bit too... whatever they were. If you were nice, you were the nicest ever. If you were evil, you were the most evil. If you were a bitch, you were the bitchiest. If you were delicate, the most delicate.
I also found some of it a bit preachy, the ongoing "asexual/aromantic" definitions and bringing it up in conversation came across as a bit preachy. Although I'm sure that's because I know what that means now, 3 or 4 years ago I might have appreciated the background more. Sadly I know that the fact that sexual abusers often get nearly non-existent sentences is all too true if anger-making although I surprised that Bastian's abuser would now, 10 years later try to terrorize him. Those guys go after kids, but then I guess he was just an asshole.
I was glad that there was no magical "cure" for Bastian after falling in love. And I actually liked Bastian's father and girlfriend a great deal for the short amount of time they were on page. They seemed the most "normal" of the lot. The one thing though in the epilogue, Charlie mentions wanting to make love to Bastian at his mother's house. What?! It sounded like it would be the first time and you're going to do it at you parent's house? Ack! No. Not the first time. LOL Maybe I misread. It was late. ;-)
If you like slow build-up and a bit of a hurt/comfort and can handle abuse themes (not detailed descriptions or anything), it will probably be right up your alley. And as I said, it sucked me in so it had something going for it.
December 24, 2023
Firefighter and the Artist
Bastien Hart, mid 20’s an accomplished artist, has made a great life for himself following a horrific life as a child at the hands of his mother’s partner.
He is a recluse, living in a mansion on an island and has only maintained the family connection through his Aunt Jessie, the sister of his horrible mother.
When his grandmother died, (Jessie’s mother) she and her best friend and fellow firefighter, Charlie arrive to attend and have a vacation there too.
When Bastien and Charlie are introduced they both felt an attraction towards each other. Slowly they become closer but Charlie takes it very slow because of the trauma suffered by Bastien as a child.
Following the funeral which was attended by his mother’s abusive partner, strange things start happening around Bastien’s property. Charlie is worried for his safety.
Unfortunately the firefighters are called back to California where wild fires are causing devastation and they are based there for 3 months.
Charlie becomes worried that Bastien won’t have him back because he has been away so long.
*********************
First time for me reading anything by Lissa Kasey and I’ve enjoyed reading ‘Painting with Fire’. I liked both Charlie and Bastien, and loved how Charlie took such good care of Bastien. There wasn’t any hot steamy scene because Charlie’s wanted time for Bastien to be ready and set the pace for their relationship.
Reading of Bastien’s home life and how the children were treated did not make for pleasant reading, but the author did manage to handle the telling without being too graphic about it.
I have already earmarked another of Lisa’s books on my TBR list. Book 2 is the story of one of the side characters in Book 1 and the blurb Ive read informs me that I’m in for a much more grisly tale.
Bastien Hart, mid 20’s an accomplished artist, has made a great life for himself following a horrific life as a child at the hands of his mother’s partner.
He is a recluse, living in a mansion on an island and has only maintained the family connection through his Aunt Jessie, the sister of his horrible mother.
When his grandmother died, (Jessie’s mother) she and her best friend and fellow firefighter, Charlie arrive to attend and have a vacation there too.
When Bastien and Charlie are introduced they both felt an attraction towards each other. Slowly they become closer but Charlie takes it very slow because of the trauma suffered by Bastien as a child.
Following the funeral which was attended by his mother’s abusive partner, strange things start happening around Bastien’s property. Charlie is worried for his safety.
Unfortunately the firefighters are called back to California where wild fires are causing devastation and they are based there for 3 months.
Charlie becomes worried that Bastien won’t have him back because he has been away so long.
*********************
First time for me reading anything by Lissa Kasey and I’ve enjoyed reading ‘Painting with Fire’. I liked both Charlie and Bastien, and loved how Charlie took such good care of Bastien. There wasn’t any hot steamy scene because Charlie’s wanted time for Bastien to be ready and set the pace for their relationship.
Reading of Bastien’s home life and how the children were treated did not make for pleasant reading, but the author did manage to handle the telling without being too graphic about it.
I have already earmarked another of Lisa’s books on my TBR list. Book 2 is the story of one of the side characters in Book 1 and the blurb Ive read informs me that I’m in for a much more grisly tale.
Want to read
April 17, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/17/2021)! 🎁
December 3, 2016
Do dolls and rugged wildfire fighters go together in a romance novel? You bet they do!
The dolls in question are not little girls’ playthings, such as you may be thinking of. Oh, some of them start out that way but there is a transition at the hands of Bastian, an artist whose medium is paint and whose canvas is collectable dolls. Bastian is also a pencil and paper artist; actually Bastian can work in almost any medium and uses social media to teach, demonstrate, and sell the dolls from his secluded home on an island off the coast of Washington State. OK, that covers the dolls. What about the firefighters?
Charlie is a California-based wildfire fighter. He even as a degree in the science of fighting and preventing wildfires. His partner is Jessie, a woman who is as strong and dedicated as Charlie. When Jessie is called home to attend her mother’s funeral all kinds of hurts, damages, and past abuse comes spilling out as Charlie accompanies her to Washington State. Charlie has his own pain and grief buried in his formative years. When Charlie and Jessie arrive for the funeral it is obvious that greed rather than grief is the driving force behind the rest of the family, and a registered sex offender is right there with them.
Bastian is gay and so is Charlie. It takes Charlie admitting to Bastian that Charlie is attracted to Bastian to break the ice a little bit and get their blood flowing. There are other actions that have to be taken to eliminate threats that are still abounding in the family.
Jessie is asexual, and it pleases me to see more of the gender spectrum addressed in this and other novels. I loved Jessie and hope to read more about her in other stories in this series.
Lissa Kasey is one of my favorite authors and Painting With Fire is an example of the reason why.
The dolls in question are not little girls’ playthings, such as you may be thinking of. Oh, some of them start out that way but there is a transition at the hands of Bastian, an artist whose medium is paint and whose canvas is collectable dolls. Bastian is also a pencil and paper artist; actually Bastian can work in almost any medium and uses social media to teach, demonstrate, and sell the dolls from his secluded home on an island off the coast of Washington State. OK, that covers the dolls. What about the firefighters?
Charlie is a California-based wildfire fighter. He even as a degree in the science of fighting and preventing wildfires. His partner is Jessie, a woman who is as strong and dedicated as Charlie. When Jessie is called home to attend her mother’s funeral all kinds of hurts, damages, and past abuse comes spilling out as Charlie accompanies her to Washington State. Charlie has his own pain and grief buried in his formative years. When Charlie and Jessie arrive for the funeral it is obvious that greed rather than grief is the driving force behind the rest of the family, and a registered sex offender is right there with them.
Bastian is gay and so is Charlie. It takes Charlie admitting to Bastian that Charlie is attracted to Bastian to break the ice a little bit and get their blood flowing. There are other actions that have to be taken to eliminate threats that are still abounding in the family.
Jessie is asexual, and it pleases me to see more of the gender spectrum addressed in this and other novels. I loved Jessie and hope to read more about her in other stories in this series.
Lissa Kasey is one of my favorite authors and Painting With Fire is an example of the reason why.
June 7, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. Charlie heads home with his best friend to attend her mother’s funeral and deal with her dysfunctional family. They are going to stay with her nephew Bastian, who was molested by his mothers pedophil boyfriend and never believed it actually happened to her own child. I get the feeling that she blames Bastian for what happened alluding to the fact that at the age of 10, Bastian seduced the POS. God I hate that woman. Anyway, when Charlie meets the painfully shy man, he is intrigued by him. He is also captivated by Bastian’s artistic mind. And is happy to just sit and watch Bastian create and bring the discarded dolls to life. I could picture them in my minds eye and I would have liked to have examined the dollhouse closer as it takes up most of Bastian’s room. We only get a quick glimpse. So we get to watch these two become tentative friends to lovers. There isn’t any penetrative sex but that fits them. There is no magic cock that heals all. Bastian is still healing from not only the physical trauma but the emotional trauma that his mother put him through. I loved that Charlie never pushed him and was very considerate, patient, caring and took such good care of him. I hope we get to see them in future books because I would love to see them further along in the relationship.
ARC provided by LesCourt Services in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided by LesCourt Services in exchange for an honest review.
December 7, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
Painting with Fire is a touching and charming story in which the romance is predictable but the journey Lissa Kasey takes her reader on is beautifully and sensitively told.
Though this is the story of how Bastian and Charlie fall in love, Kasey does not let us forget Jessie and the family dynamics that forced the best friends to take their trip in the first place. Jessie is strong and independent and exactly the type of female character I love to read about, but her sexuality means that there is no chance of a love triangle or a romance for her, which would detract the reader’s focus from Bastian and Charlie. Jessie’s role is pivotal and I could not help but admire her.
Conversely, Jessie’s sister, Kim, and her actions that led to Bastian’s abuse – along with her denial – are sickening. One of the most heart-breaking scenes is at Jessie’s mother’s funeral, which I read with my mouth open in shock and tears of total disbelief in my eyes. Yet, however hard this is for the reader, it is also the way in which Kasey ensures we understand Bastian’s introverted nature completely, as well as appreciating Charlie’s gentle approach.
Read Kirsty’s review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
Painting with Fire is a touching and charming story in which the romance is predictable but the journey Lissa Kasey takes her reader on is beautifully and sensitively told.
Though this is the story of how Bastian and Charlie fall in love, Kasey does not let us forget Jessie and the family dynamics that forced the best friends to take their trip in the first place. Jessie is strong and independent and exactly the type of female character I love to read about, but her sexuality means that there is no chance of a love triangle or a romance for her, which would detract the reader’s focus from Bastian and Charlie. Jessie’s role is pivotal and I could not help but admire her.
Conversely, Jessie’s sister, Kim, and her actions that led to Bastian’s abuse – along with her denial – are sickening. One of the most heart-breaking scenes is at Jessie’s mother’s funeral, which I read with my mouth open in shock and tears of total disbelief in my eyes. Yet, however hard this is for the reader, it is also the way in which Kasey ensures we understand Bastian’s introverted nature completely, as well as appreciating Charlie’s gentle approach.
Read Kirsty’s review in its entirety here.
December 27, 2016
I believe the cover is meant to portray Bastian, a young man who was sexually abused as a boy, though nothing is detailed in the story, thank goodness. Bastian has hidden himself away in a large house he remodeled and uses as not only his home, but his workshop for his art dolls which he sells for amazing prices to support himself. He's cut himself off from his dysfunctional family except for Jessie his biggest fan, who is planning to visit along with her fellow firefighting partner Charlie to attend a funeral.
Charlie is fascinated by Bastian, but Bastian is extremely shy, so there is no insta anything. But it's pretty hard not to admire Bastain for his talent and what he's accomplished with it. Charlie slowly becomes more interested in Bastian and becomes his protector when Bastian is threatened at the funeral by his former abuser. Soon a single kiss leads to more intimate things.
There are so many elements playing out in this story at all times that I found it hard to put the book down. Charlie and Bastian are perfect together, but they will have to weather family threats and Charlie's job which can call him into action at any moment and keep him away for months at a time fighting major wildfires. I'm happy to say there is a very satisfying happy ending and I just oozed happiness on finishing the story. Highly recommend, on my favorites list.
Charlie is fascinated by Bastian, but Bastian is extremely shy, so there is no insta anything. But it's pretty hard not to admire Bastain for his talent and what he's accomplished with it. Charlie slowly becomes more interested in Bastian and becomes his protector when Bastian is threatened at the funeral by his former abuser. Soon a single kiss leads to more intimate things.
There are so many elements playing out in this story at all times that I found it hard to put the book down. Charlie and Bastian are perfect together, but they will have to weather family threats and Charlie's job which can call him into action at any moment and keep him away for months at a time fighting major wildfires. I'm happy to say there is a very satisfying happy ending and I just oozed happiness on finishing the story. Highly recommend, on my favorites list.
April 17, 2017
I loved this story! I actually read book two a few months ago to do a review and it was so good I had to go back to meet these characters, both of whom played a supportive role in the second book.
Bastain is a survivor of child molestation by a man who is still living in his mother's house. He's a talented artist with a lucrative business painting one-of-a-kind dolls. He even runs YouTube demos on his work taking viewers step-by-step and has a Patreon site on which he demonstrates more high end dolls and intricate work.
When his Aunt Jesse and her wildfire fighting coworker come for a visit, he and the man, Charlie Fox, fall in love - very, very slowly. This is a beautiful love story, with a focus on the little things that make for an everlasting love.
Of course, there's plenty of family complications and disruptions, principally centering on Jesse's mother's death and the huge forest fire she and Charlie are called away to fight. Very sweet characters and a very sweet romance. Highly recommend.
Bastain is a survivor of child molestation by a man who is still living in his mother's house. He's a talented artist with a lucrative business painting one-of-a-kind dolls. He even runs YouTube demos on his work taking viewers step-by-step and has a Patreon site on which he demonstrates more high end dolls and intricate work.
When his Aunt Jesse and her wildfire fighting coworker come for a visit, he and the man, Charlie Fox, fall in love - very, very slowly. This is a beautiful love story, with a focus on the little things that make for an everlasting love.
Of course, there's plenty of family complications and disruptions, principally centering on Jesse's mother's death and the huge forest fire she and Charlie are called away to fight. Very sweet characters and a very sweet romance. Highly recommend.
April 23, 2017
40% DNF. BORING!!!
This is the second and mostly last book I will read from this author. I read book 2 of this series first and wasn't really impressed with the relationship development between the MCs, Jason and Graham. However, Bastian and Charlie made a lot of appearances in book 2 and their story was referenced a lot throughout book 2 as well. They were also very affectionate and loving towards one another which made me want to read their story. Based on their close and loving relationship in book 2, I really thought there would be lots of cuddles and affection between them in this book. But from the 40% I read that wasn't the case. As a matter of fact, they barely spoke to one another, the first 37% of the book. The author was too busy giving in-depth descriptions of the MCs chosen careers. The author also focused more on the MCs interaction with the secondary characters as opposed to one another. It was hard to feel any connection between Bastian and Charlie. When they finally kissed it was just blah.
This is the second and mostly last book I will read from this author. I read book 2 of this series first and wasn't really impressed with the relationship development between the MCs, Jason and Graham. However, Bastian and Charlie made a lot of appearances in book 2 and their story was referenced a lot throughout book 2 as well. They were also very affectionate and loving towards one another which made me want to read their story. Based on their close and loving relationship in book 2, I really thought there would be lots of cuddles and affection between them in this book. But from the 40% I read that wasn't the case. As a matter of fact, they barely spoke to one another, the first 37% of the book. The author was too busy giving in-depth descriptions of the MCs chosen careers. The author also focused more on the MCs interaction with the secondary characters as opposed to one another. It was hard to feel any connection between Bastian and Charlie. When they finally kissed it was just blah.
March 2, 2017
This is such a sweet and touching story. The characters are so very complex and incredibly real. I could not stop reading until I finished this book.
September 18, 2017
More 3.5 stars for me but I did really enjoy it so I'll round up. I think the problem was with my expectations more than the actual story. I've recently read the Haven Investigations series from this author and it was much more intense so I went in thinking this would be the same. This was more of a sweet love story. There was past abuse talked about but no current awful things happening. This one also had almost no sex. There was no actual penetration type sex at all which is fine but again, not what I was expecting. It was definitely good enough to continue with the series though.
March 24, 2017
Oh i absolutely love little Bastien in this book! Love this book!
Charlie is a firefighter goes with his roommate to a funeral and meets Bastien. His roommate is Bastien's aunt and they are staying with him for the funeral. With Bastien's past being so bad Charlie has to be so careful with him but is enraptured from the start. Bastien has to learn to trust and love and make himself vulnerable. As his past comes to haunt him, Bastien learns to let go and hope
Charlie is a firefighter goes with his roommate to a funeral and meets Bastien. His roommate is Bastien's aunt and they are staying with him for the funeral. With Bastien's past being so bad Charlie has to be so careful with him but is enraptured from the start. Bastien has to learn to trust and love and make himself vulnerable. As his past comes to haunt him, Bastien learns to let go and hope
July 22, 2019
oh man i loved this.. i dont know if ive ever read a book with a doll painter before.. it was part amazing and part creepy haha... the emotions were off the wall.. so much sadness.. and then love.. it was all around just a fun story to read. i loved it
September 6, 2025
So. I read this one a few months ago and only now discovered I haven’t marked it as read. The thing is. I believe I liked it. I just don’t remember anything about it 😂
March 8, 2017
True rating: 4.25 stars :-)!! Terrific book; HIGHLY recommended!
March 3, 2017
4.75 *
March 1, 2017
Short but very sweet
I read this in an evening,but I enjoyed it thoroughly. It perhaps needs an epilogue,but even so the HEA stands by itself .
I read this in an evening,but I enjoyed it thoroughly. It perhaps needs an epilogue,but even so the HEA stands by itself .
March 18, 2017
2.5 I struggled with this book... for me there was no chemistry. Then all of a sudden it was love. I really tried but could not make it work for me
December 21, 2016
This was one of the sweetest stories that I have read this year. I was so happy with the characterization of all the characters. Charlie and Bastion are well-rounded individuals with many different interests and backstories. They felt so real, and I honestly wanted to know more about them. They felt like people I could actually have met and talked to if I wanted. I also appreciate Jessie so much. She's more of a secondary character, but she was also filled with so much life. I also loved that it was mentioned (a couple times) that she is asexual. This book might have been about two men falling in love, but it had so much diversity and representation. I wish this book was twice as long. I could read about these characters' lives non-stop.
December 6, 2016
So good!
I really like the MC's in this book. Bastian and Charlie are both well written and believable, I was completely invested in their story and wanted to see their happy ending. Jessie is also a character who felt real and what she and Bastian had to put up with from their blood family was heartbreaking, but it was wonderful to see how family, real family can be the people who are there for you and not just those that share your blood. Jessie and Charlie and Bastian became the family the they needed to be.
I really like the MC's in this book. Bastian and Charlie are both well written and believable, I was completely invested in their story and wanted to see their happy ending. Jessie is also a character who felt real and what she and Bastian had to put up with from their blood family was heartbreaking, but it was wonderful to see how family, real family can be the people who are there for you and not just those that share your blood. Jessie and Charlie and Bastian became the family the they needed to be.
February 6, 2017
Helping each other
Bastian is the nephew of Jessie who is Nat friends with Charlie. Charlie and Jessie are firefighters who have come to Bastian's showplace home to support him at the funeral of his grandmother and his abusive family.
All does not go well in this nicely told story of growing love , newly formed friendship and family reunited!
Bastian is the nephew of Jessie who is Nat friends with Charlie. Charlie and Jessie are firefighters who have come to Bastian's showplace home to support him at the funeral of his grandmother and his abusive family.
All does not go well in this nicely told story of growing love , newly formed friendship and family reunited!
August 11, 2019
Really well written- more a 4.5. I have never read this author before so was very happy to find this book. Charlie and Bastian are both great men with passion for life. The plot is interesting and supporting characters are well done, especially Jessie. Will definitely read more by this author.
September 30, 2019
Loved this one from Lissa Kasey! It was well written and well edited and had a great plot! The main characters had truly interesting career choices...side characters were awesome too! I plan to read lots more from this author in the future!
Read
March 8, 2017I loved reading this book. I have a fascination with balljoint dolls and seeing them in the book is an added pleasure.
January 2, 2017
Original review on Molly Lolly
Four and a half stars!
This story was wonderful. I adored Bastian and Charlie. They were such dynamic characters and came alive as I read. I loved how they slowly built a relationship and started as friends first. Together they were so good and you could feel their emotions as you read.
Charlie was a total sweetheart. He cared for those around him and had a heart of hold. He was so gentle with Bastian at first. His genuine interest in the dolls Bastian painted was a joy to read and helped boost Bastian’s confidence. Getting to see how he reacted to something that was his trigger made him come alive more. I love when we get to see the full range of emotion for characters. Not all positive or all negative. The way Charlie worried about Bastian, if he was safe, and if he would be able to handle a relationship with a wildfire firefighter had my heart go out to him. His emotions were so clear throughout the story.
Bastian made my heart hurt right from the beginning. His past haunted him still but he was working on moving past it in the best way he could. His work was described beautifully and I wish the dolls he made were real. I’d gladly follow his work online. The scene at his grandmother’s funeral was so emotion filled. You could feel what everyone was feeling as you read. Bastian’s reaction afterward was both heartbreaking and appropriate. I felt bad for him and how broken he felt.
Charlie and Bastian are clearly in love and their journey to get there was beautiful to read. By the end you can tell they’re going to make the relationship work and do everything they can to stay together. I would love to read a sequel to this story. See how they’re doing a while down the road, how they handle Charlier going to fires long term, how Jessie’s doing in the guest house, how the cats are getting along. And more of Bastian’s dolls. I desperately want to see more of them and how they’re described.
Four and a half stars!
This story was wonderful. I adored Bastian and Charlie. They were such dynamic characters and came alive as I read. I loved how they slowly built a relationship and started as friends first. Together they were so good and you could feel their emotions as you read.
Charlie was a total sweetheart. He cared for those around him and had a heart of hold. He was so gentle with Bastian at first. His genuine interest in the dolls Bastian painted was a joy to read and helped boost Bastian’s confidence. Getting to see how he reacted to something that was his trigger made him come alive more. I love when we get to see the full range of emotion for characters. Not all positive or all negative. The way Charlie worried about Bastian, if he was safe, and if he would be able to handle a relationship with a wildfire firefighter had my heart go out to him. His emotions were so clear throughout the story.
Bastian made my heart hurt right from the beginning. His past haunted him still but he was working on moving past it in the best way he could. His work was described beautifully and I wish the dolls he made were real. I’d gladly follow his work online. The scene at his grandmother’s funeral was so emotion filled. You could feel what everyone was feeling as you read. Bastian’s reaction afterward was both heartbreaking and appropriate. I felt bad for him and how broken he felt.
Charlie and Bastian are clearly in love and their journey to get there was beautiful to read. By the end you can tell they’re going to make the relationship work and do everything they can to stay together. I would love to read a sequel to this story. See how they’re doing a while down the road, how they handle Charlier going to fires long term, how Jessie’s doing in the guest house, how the cats are getting along. And more of Bastian’s dolls. I desperately want to see more of them and how they’re described.
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