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Flirting with Fire #2
Up in Flames
It takes one little spark for enemies to ignite into lovers in a searing-hot novel by USA Today bestselling author Jennifer Blackwood.
Sloane Garcia has butted heads with Reece Jenkins ever since he was a colossal jerk of epic proportions on a night she’d rather forget. So what if he’s overconfident, ultramasculine, and hard muscled? When she finds out he’s on the auction block at the annual firefighter’s charity event, she decides to give this cocky firefighter a dose of his own medicine. Now that she’s won the hunk, he’s on call—to do whatever Sloane wants.
Sure, Reece and Sloane had a rocky start, but he had his reasons. None of that matters now that he’s the bachelor at her beck and call, tasked with granting her four wishes in four weeks. He runs into burning buildings for a living, but nothing will be as tough as dousing the flames Sloane ignites in him. What started out as just a game might end up with Reece losing the one thing he swore he’d never give up: his heart.
Sloane Garcia has butted heads with Reece Jenkins ever since he was a colossal jerk of epic proportions on a night she’d rather forget. So what if he’s overconfident, ultramasculine, and hard muscled? When she finds out he’s on the auction block at the annual firefighter’s charity event, she decides to give this cocky firefighter a dose of his own medicine. Now that she’s won the hunk, he’s on call—to do whatever Sloane wants.
Sure, Reece and Sloane had a rocky start, but he had his reasons. None of that matters now that he’s the bachelor at her beck and call, tasked with granting her four wishes in four weeks. He runs into burning buildings for a living, but nothing will be as tough as dousing the flames Sloane ignites in him. What started out as just a game might end up with Reece losing the one thing he swore he’d never give up: his heart.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 9, 2018
597 people are currently reading
1522 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Blackwood
16 books1,375 followersJennifer Blackwood is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance. She lives in Oregon with her husband, son, and poorly behaved black lab puppy. When not chasing after her toddler, you can find her binging on episodes of Gilmore Girls and Supernatural, and locking herself in her office to write.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 264 reviews
October 9, 2018
Normally I love the push/pull of a enemies to lovers trope but I have to like the people I'm supposed to root for. I had a hard time doing that here. Sloane started off as a really strong character who knew her own mind and her worth only to end up giving in so easily that it felt like she was replaced by a completely different character. Reese on the other hand, stayed frustratingly the same. I wanted to see a bigger change in him, maybe take a more dominate role in their relationship but he seemed content to just go with the flow. Whether that included Sloane or not didn't seem to matter if his level of effort was any indication.
Quick Summary:
Reese and Sloane have known each other for years. When Sloane propositions Reese one drunken night after a bad breakup, Reese rejects her so harshly that Sloane still feels the burn of humiliation a whole year later.
Since then, these two have gone out of their way to push and poke at the other and it's driving their family and friends crazy. When Reese gets roped into the annual fireman's auction, Sloane sees her chance to have Reese at her beck and call for a little old fashion payback. One month of hanging out together and suddenly the lines they'd drawn blur and both start seeing each other in a whole new light.
I did loved the foster dog Peaches, that Sloane tricks Reese into fostering. She added some humor to the story and helped me warm up to Reese. I also liked the strong friendship between Sloane and her besties and seeing Erin and Jake (from book one) again. Second chance romances can be a hit or miss for me. Sadly this one was a miss. It was okay but there were a few things that just didn't sit well with me in the long run.
Would I recommend? For those less picky than me, this one could be a good read. I wasn't as forgiving as the h but that is entirely my personal preferences.
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
Quick Summary:
Reese and Sloane have known each other for years. When Sloane propositions Reese one drunken night after a bad breakup, Reese rejects her so harshly that Sloane still feels the burn of humiliation a whole year later.
Since then, these two have gone out of their way to push and poke at the other and it's driving their family and friends crazy. When Reese gets roped into the annual fireman's auction, Sloane sees her chance to have Reese at her beck and call for a little old fashion payback. One month of hanging out together and suddenly the lines they'd drawn blur and both start seeing each other in a whole new light.
I did loved the foster dog Peaches, that Sloane tricks Reese into fostering. She added some humor to the story and helped me warm up to Reese. I also liked the strong friendship between Sloane and her besties and seeing Erin and Jake (from book one) again. Second chance romances can be a hit or miss for me. Sadly this one was a miss. It was okay but there were a few things that just didn't sit well with me in the long run.
Would I recommend? For those less picky than me, this one could be a good read. I wasn't as forgiving as the h but that is entirely my personal preferences.
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
January 3, 2019
3.5 Stars
Up in Flames was an entertaining read with a great enemies to lovers romance between two people learning to love again after past romances gone bad.
After Reece Jenkins was an epic jerk during one of her weaker moments, Sloane Garcia avoids him at all costs as the two can’t be in the same room without fighting. When Reece ends up on the auction block at the annual firefighter's charity event, Sloane decides to bid on him and give him due comeuppance. Forced to grant any four wishes Sloane asks for, Reece thinks this task will be nothing compared to running into burning buildings. But as the two spend more time together, Reece realizes he might end up losing his heart to the last person he would have expected to fall for.
Sloane spends most of her time working as a nurse practitioner at the local hospital and helping out at a local animal rescue. Sloane loves helping others whether they be human or animal and is amazing at doing so. After a ten-year relationship went bad, Sloane has been slow to reenter the dating world as she believes it will lead to nothing but heartache. Reece always knew he wanted to do something that would help people, so becoming a fireman was an easy choice. Reece dedicates himself to his job and knows he could never do anything else. After his relationship with his highschool sweetheart went sour, Reece has kept his relationships on the easy side.
Sloane and Reece have great physical chemistry that’s apparent in their every interaction despite the verbal sparring and their obvious dislike of one another. I enjoyed the times they playfully bantered and how they were also able to have deep meaningful conversations that they couldn’t have with anyone else. When their relationship turns physical it’s incredibly hot and I wished there had been more scenes where they were alone. My only issue with their relationship was sometimes I felt they went too far with their cutting remarks against each other. I get that the romance was enemies to lovers, but I don’t like when the characters continue to hurt each other over and over again.
The couple from the first book, Erin and Jake, make numerous appearances throughout the book as do Reece’s family and his fellow fireman. There are several very cute scenes with Erin and Jake which was nice to see as I really enjoyed their book. There are a few great scenes between Reece and his youngest sister which were wonderful and I wish there had been more of them. Peaches, the dog Reece is fostering, absolutely stole the show and I loved watching this big alpha male fall for a princess dog.
Overall Up in Flames was an enjoyable read and I’m excited to read more from this author in the future. I definitely recommend this series if you’re looking for some hot contemporary romances.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Up in Flames was an entertaining read with a great enemies to lovers romance between two people learning to love again after past romances gone bad.
After Reece Jenkins was an epic jerk during one of her weaker moments, Sloane Garcia avoids him at all costs as the two can’t be in the same room without fighting. When Reece ends up on the auction block at the annual firefighter's charity event, Sloane decides to bid on him and give him due comeuppance. Forced to grant any four wishes Sloane asks for, Reece thinks this task will be nothing compared to running into burning buildings. But as the two spend more time together, Reece realizes he might end up losing his heart to the last person he would have expected to fall for.
Sloane spends most of her time working as a nurse practitioner at the local hospital and helping out at a local animal rescue. Sloane loves helping others whether they be human or animal and is amazing at doing so. After a ten-year relationship went bad, Sloane has been slow to reenter the dating world as she believes it will lead to nothing but heartache. Reece always knew he wanted to do something that would help people, so becoming a fireman was an easy choice. Reece dedicates himself to his job and knows he could never do anything else. After his relationship with his highschool sweetheart went sour, Reece has kept his relationships on the easy side.
Sloane and Reece have great physical chemistry that’s apparent in their every interaction despite the verbal sparring and their obvious dislike of one another. I enjoyed the times they playfully bantered and how they were also able to have deep meaningful conversations that they couldn’t have with anyone else. When their relationship turns physical it’s incredibly hot and I wished there had been more scenes where they were alone. My only issue with their relationship was sometimes I felt they went too far with their cutting remarks against each other. I get that the romance was enemies to lovers, but I don’t like when the characters continue to hurt each other over and over again.
The couple from the first book, Erin and Jake, make numerous appearances throughout the book as do Reece’s family and his fellow fireman. There are several very cute scenes with Erin and Jake which was nice to see as I really enjoyed their book. There are a few great scenes between Reece and his youngest sister which were wonderful and I wish there had been more of them. Peaches, the dog Reece is fostering, absolutely stole the show and I loved watching this big alpha male fall for a princess dog.
Overall Up in Flames was an enjoyable read and I’m excited to read more from this author in the future. I definitely recommend this series if you’re looking for some hot contemporary romances.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
November 10, 2018
Omg so good. I loved the smut. I loved Sloane and Reece together. They had amazing chemistry and even though there was some drama - it was a good audio book.
Sloane, aka smurfette, has had a crush on Reece for like ever. She’s her best friends older brother and after one drunken night where he said something rather stupid - she’s hated him. Like love hate because pretty sure she was already liking the idea of having hate sex with him.
Then there’s Reece who has dated all of the other nurses that work with Sloane, well not dated. More like one night stands. But either way. He’s avoided her like the plague. He can’t stop thinking about the night where she was drunk and he messed everything up.
Although kudos for him for not sleeping with a drunk girl.
Anyway, she ends up buying him in some firefighters auction. He has so many days to do chores for her. While spending more time together, those old feelings come sneaking back. After an amazing make out sesh, I was waiting for more.
Of course once that happened I was waiting for the other shoe to drop. Then alcohol was involved and the drama came along with it. Towards the end, they definitely worked things out. I liked getting to see everyone from the first book as well. Overall, km just enjoying the storylines and the relationships.
I can’t wait for the next book. Also who is this arsonist??
Sloane, aka smurfette, has had a crush on Reece for like ever. She’s her best friends older brother and after one drunken night where he said something rather stupid - she’s hated him. Like love hate because pretty sure she was already liking the idea of having hate sex with him.
Then there’s Reece who has dated all of the other nurses that work with Sloane, well not dated. More like one night stands. But either way. He’s avoided her like the plague. He can’t stop thinking about the night where she was drunk and he messed everything up.
Although kudos for him for not sleeping with a drunk girl.
Anyway, she ends up buying him in some firefighters auction. He has so many days to do chores for her. While spending more time together, those old feelings come sneaking back. After an amazing make out sesh, I was waiting for more.
Of course once that happened I was waiting for the other shoe to drop. Then alcohol was involved and the drama came along with it. Towards the end, they definitely worked things out. I liked getting to see everyone from the first book as well. Overall, km just enjoying the storylines and the relationships.
I can’t wait for the next book. Also who is this arsonist??
October 18, 2018
Sweet revenge….
Sloane and Reece made their own brand of fireworks in this entertaining frenemies to lover story. Their story may not be new – he was a jerk and she hasn’t forgiven him – but the way it all played out made their romance uniquely their own…
Reece, a firefighter, and Sloane, a nurse, couldn’t help but cross paths professionally even as she avoided him and vice versa. Their banter was snarky and snippy but the heat seemed more from hurt then anger. It definitely hid desire on both sides as the viewpoint jumped back and forth between them, giving me a real understanding of how they were really feeling. I really like when you get both ‘sides’ of the story from the characters themselves. Emotions and inner monologues match the outside voices and actions, making everything more meaningful.
While Sloane did seek some form of retribution, the way it played out was a courtship in four, stumbling, hilarious steps… A bit of a slow start and a quiet finish, what was found in between made for a rollicking fun and passionate romance. ~Diane, 4 Peach-y Stars
Sloane and Reece made their own brand of fireworks in this entertaining frenemies to lover story. Their story may not be new – he was a jerk and she hasn’t forgiven him – but the way it all played out made their romance uniquely their own…
Reece, a firefighter, and Sloane, a nurse, couldn’t help but cross paths professionally even as she avoided him and vice versa. Their banter was snarky and snippy but the heat seemed more from hurt then anger. It definitely hid desire on both sides as the viewpoint jumped back and forth between them, giving me a real understanding of how they were really feeling. I really like when you get both ‘sides’ of the story from the characters themselves. Emotions and inner monologues match the outside voices and actions, making everything more meaningful.
While Sloane did seek some form of retribution, the way it played out was a courtship in four, stumbling, hilarious steps… A bit of a slow start and a quiet finish, what was found in between made for a rollicking fun and passionate romance. ~Diane, 4 Peach-y Stars
January 6, 2020
Sim, eu li este livro em menos de 24 horas - é para verem o meu empenho na leitura. OMG! O quanto adorei este livro!!!
Tive que o ler assim que terminei o livro anterior e as minhas suspeitas estavam certas...este livro foi ainda melhor que o outro - AMEI por completo. Estou rendida
Que venham as verdades nuas e cruas.
Adorei a relação do Reece e da Sloane... cão e gato, completamente e depois...rendidos um ao outro. Foi tão engraçado ver a evolução da relação deles, sim, porque ao início ela estava literalmente a gozar com ele e maltratá-lo - mas sejamos sinceros, ele mereceu... as "bocas" que mandam um ao outro... GOD! Só provam o quão bem se conhecem. Gosto tanto deles os dois juntos... já dava para entender no livro anterior que havia uma história entre eles, mas entender e ver explorada é incrível. São as minhas personagens preferidas.
O que eu esperei pelo clímax deste livro! - e quando chegou não desiludiu nada.
Gostei de conhecer as fragilidades de cada um enquanto indivíduos, ambos sofreram por amor no passado e não querem de todo passar pelo mesmo - mas por vezes, o amor surge quando menos se espera, e por quem menos se espera...
Tenho que falar da Peaches...o que me ri quando visualizei um homem como ele "preso" a uma cadelinha yorkshire toda princesa e diva XD - Bravo Sloane! Excelente tarefa.
A premissa chave deste livro é bastante interessante - o leilão por favores - e realmente teve tudo para dar certo.
Gostava de ter visto mais sobre a parte do incendiário, acho que a ação teria a ganhar se investisse mais nesse enredo, mas entendo o porquê de ter passado um pouco ao lado...
Adorei rever as personagens do primeiro livro, ver como se estão a ambientar nesta nova realidade. A família dele continua muito metedisa o que é sempre engraçado de ler XD
O final foi muito fofinho e gostei que dessem foco a todas as personagens.
Recomendo imenso - é uma leitura que aquece (entenderam o trocadilho com o título XD), que é amorosa e super fácil de ler.
Tive que o ler assim que terminei o livro anterior e as minhas suspeitas estavam certas...este livro foi ainda melhor que o outro - AMEI por completo. Estou rendida
Que venham as verdades nuas e cruas.
Adorei a relação do Reece e da Sloane... cão e gato, completamente e depois...rendidos um ao outro. Foi tão engraçado ver a evolução da relação deles, sim, porque ao início ela estava literalmente a gozar com ele e maltratá-lo - mas sejamos sinceros, ele mereceu... as "bocas" que mandam um ao outro... GOD! Só provam o quão bem se conhecem. Gosto tanto deles os dois juntos... já dava para entender no livro anterior que havia uma história entre eles, mas entender e ver explorada é incrível. São as minhas personagens preferidas.
O que eu esperei pelo clímax deste livro! - e quando chegou não desiludiu nada.
Gostei de conhecer as fragilidades de cada um enquanto indivíduos, ambos sofreram por amor no passado e não querem de todo passar pelo mesmo - mas por vezes, o amor surge quando menos se espera, e por quem menos se espera...
Tenho que falar da Peaches...o que me ri quando visualizei um homem como ele "preso" a uma cadelinha yorkshire toda princesa e diva XD - Bravo Sloane! Excelente tarefa.
A premissa chave deste livro é bastante interessante - o leilão por favores - e realmente teve tudo para dar certo.
Gostava de ter visto mais sobre a parte do incendiário, acho que a ação teria a ganhar se investisse mais nesse enredo, mas entendo o porquê de ter passado um pouco ao lado...
Adorei rever as personagens do primeiro livro, ver como se estão a ambientar nesta nova realidade. A família dele continua muito metedisa o que é sempre engraçado de ler XD
O final foi muito fofinho e gostei que dessem foco a todas as personagens.
Recomendo imenso - é uma leitura que aquece (entenderam o trocadilho com o título XD), que é amorosa e super fácil de ler.
Read
August 16, 2018I voluntarily read and reviewed an copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thanks to the author for providing a copy of this book via Netgalley
DNF. I didnt like this book at all. “Its me, not you”
The MCs knew each other from their childhood.
I didnt like MCs: the heroine was boring, she had low self-esteem. The hero was a man-ho. I was a prick to our heroine a year ago: “i would not have sex with you although you would be the last woman on earth” . What an asshole! He did like the heroine a lot, but was a coward and ladies man.
He had sex/dated/... 8 nurses from our heroine hospital. WTF!!!
Thanks to the author for providing a copy of this book via Netgalley
DNF. I didnt like this book at all. “Its me, not you”
The MCs knew each other from their childhood.
I didnt like MCs: the heroine was boring, she had low self-esteem. The hero was a man-ho. I was a prick to our heroine a year ago: “i would not have sex with you although you would be the last woman on earth” . What an asshole! He did like the heroine a lot, but was a coward and ladies man.
He had sex/dated/... 8 nurses from our heroine hospital. WTF!!!
September 27, 2018
“Giggles”....oh my!!! I giggled so many times throughout Up in Flames.....
Sloane and Reece’s banter was priceless!!!! The history that the two had played a HUGE part in how they were with each other.....Reece....SMH!!!!
As the story progressed, you (the reader) were front row reading how these two came to see each other differently.
And I must say.....I will never look at a Roomba the same way again!!!
Reviewed by: Dana D.
Sloane and Reece’s banter was priceless!!!! The history that the two had played a HUGE part in how they were with each other.....Reece....SMH!!!!
As the story progressed, you (the reader) were front row reading how these two came to see each other differently.
And I must say.....I will never look at a Roomba the same way again!!!
Reviewed by: Dana D.
October 8, 2018
I thought this book was very enjoyable. It's a lighthearted and fun enemies to lovers story that just made me smile. Reece and Sloane have history. They had one incredible night together then Reece turned into a major jerk. Sloane's never forgiven him and now he's at her mercy after she "buys" him at a charity auction. He has to fulfill four wishes for her and it's fun to watch her make him squirm. Will they be the same when this is all over?
This is a great read filled with lots of snark, humor and fun. I definitely recommend this one.
This is a great read filled with lots of snark, humor and fun. I definitely recommend this one.
March 8, 2021
Segundo na serie, “Brincar com o Fogo”, e com a companhia de um rabugento Reece e uma vingativa fofa Sloane. Ambos já tinham aparecido no livro anterior e deixado o mistério das suas presenças, e neste livro descobrimos o porquê de todo o ódio presenciado.
São daquelas coisas que com uma boa conversa poderia resolver-se, mas qual era a piada nisso, não é mesmo? Então acabou por crescer toda esta história divertida e animada, que junta duas pessoas que acham que de odeiam, mas que no fundo se amam.
Neste livro temos um pouco o que nos faltou no anterior: interações divertidas com o casal fora do tema sexo/cama. As implicâncias e as conversas acidas dos personagens levaram-me a dar boas gargalhadas e a imaginar a diversão que eles poderiam aproveitar de tudo isso.
Gostei da Sloane e de como ela foi descrita – diferente e totalmente fora dos padrões comuns. Das pequenas coisas que ela gosta e faz; das suas tentativas falhadas de encontros e da sua vingança a Reece. Achei-a muito querida e fofa. Do Reece eu também gostei muito – não pelo facto da descrição dele ser muito boa e cheia de gominhos e músculos – mas também por ele ser muito próximo da família; de como trata a mãe e a irmã mais nova, e de como dá importância ao seu trabalho de bombeiro, colocando as suas prioridades no lugar.
É um bom livro para rir, relaxar e imaginar coisas engraçadas e divertidas.
O que me irritou aqui foi o final. Foi muito rápido para o bom desenvolvimento que o livro teve. Poderia ter sido um pouco mais trabalhado e desenvolvido. Muito rápido na minha opinião, mas não foi um péssimo fim. Ficou nas 4 estrelas, que com certeza são quase 5.
São daquelas coisas que com uma boa conversa poderia resolver-se, mas qual era a piada nisso, não é mesmo? Então acabou por crescer toda esta história divertida e animada, que junta duas pessoas que acham que de odeiam, mas que no fundo se amam.
Neste livro temos um pouco o que nos faltou no anterior: interações divertidas com o casal fora do tema sexo/cama. As implicâncias e as conversas acidas dos personagens levaram-me a dar boas gargalhadas e a imaginar a diversão que eles poderiam aproveitar de tudo isso.
Gostei da Sloane e de como ela foi descrita – diferente e totalmente fora dos padrões comuns. Das pequenas coisas que ela gosta e faz; das suas tentativas falhadas de encontros e da sua vingança a Reece. Achei-a muito querida e fofa. Do Reece eu também gostei muito – não pelo facto da descrição dele ser muito boa e cheia de gominhos e músculos – mas também por ele ser muito próximo da família; de como trata a mãe e a irmã mais nova, e de como dá importância ao seu trabalho de bombeiro, colocando as suas prioridades no lugar.
É um bom livro para rir, relaxar e imaginar coisas engraçadas e divertidas.
O que me irritou aqui foi o final. Foi muito rápido para o bom desenvolvimento que o livro teve. Poderia ter sido um pouco mais trabalhado e desenvolvido. Muito rápido na minha opinião, mas não foi um péssimo fim. Ficou nas 4 estrelas, que com certeza são quase 5.
October 10, 2018
Up in Flames is book two in this new series by Jennifer Blackwood and it was a great read. Our main characters Sloane and Reece are practically oil and water. One night a year ago they had an incident that set their relationship on a whole new course. They went from friendly acquaintances to enemies. Unfortunately for Reece a bad call at work and a pissed off boss equal a bad combination and unexpected consequences. That combination lands him in an auction for charity that ultimately puts him at the mercy of Sloane.
I loved Sloane's chosen methods of punishment. And honestly I just really enjoyed the chemistry between these two. The transition from enemies to lovers is a favorite sub-genre of mine and I think it was done very well in this story. Plus I got the player Reece being tamed by the kind (but thankfully not naive) Sloane. This story just rang all kinds of favorite trope bells for me.
I also really appreciated that while this was book two in a series, I didn't feel like I was missing out by not having read book one first. This one is very much a standalone. I do however plan to go back and read the first book. And I look forward to what's in store for book three.
August 25, 2018
Publication Date: October 9, 2018
3- Stars
I LOVE the attraction to the best friends older brother trope because of the history and the experiences they often share while growing up together, and I was looking forward to reading Sloane and Reese's story.
I really enjoyed their secondary characters in the previous book and was looking forward to finding out what happened between the two of them to cause so much tension.
Unfortunately, I just didn't connect with their characters in this story.
Sloane is a nurse practitioner and Reese is a seasoned firefighter, but when the two of them came together they regressed to immature, spiteful people.
Don't get me wrong, I understand why Sloane was upset with Reese, but I thought a year was a LONG time to not make amends and forgive him especially since they're lives were so heavily entwined.
I liked this story.
The story and the writing were good.
"An ARC of this book has been provided by the publisher via NetGalley."
3- Stars
I LOVE the attraction to the best friends older brother trope because of the history and the experiences they often share while growing up together, and I was looking forward to reading Sloane and Reese's story.
I really enjoyed their secondary characters in the previous book and was looking forward to finding out what happened between the two of them to cause so much tension.
Unfortunately, I just didn't connect with their characters in this story.
Sloane is a nurse practitioner and Reese is a seasoned firefighter, but when the two of them came together they regressed to immature, spiteful people.
Don't get me wrong, I understand why Sloane was upset with Reese, but I thought a year was a LONG time to not make amends and forgive him especially since they're lives were so heavily entwined.
I liked this story.
The story and the writing were good.
"An ARC of this book has been provided by the publisher via NetGalley."
October 10, 2018
Again? Yes. Again. It was the cover that drew me in.
Five stars for that Thinker of a firefighter...but I digress.
My first Jennifer Blackwood story. I liked her writing style, pace, and the getting-to-know-you convos and humor in the first half of the book. I say this because the "auction" trope has never been a fave of mine, especially when the participant is being forced to participate. I'm looking at you chief! Again...that cover drew me ;)
Still, I do lurve me some second chance frenemies to lovers trope!! How doesn't working out all those issues that could easily have been righted with one, maybe two, intelligent grown-up heart-to-hearts! So I hung. And then the author started to throw lots of obstacles in our MCs paths. As if his job being on the line wasn't enuf (auction shenanigans and her "report" back to the chief after the favors are done) there was...well...I'm not gonna tell you cause it would spoil the plot. Let's just say that the author could have weeded out 2/3 of the hurdles and gave us more backstory on the OM and Sloane's relationship, more of Sloane (a nurse) being concerned about Reese's "accidents" on the job. Scheesh. He gets **** AND **** AND a concussion, but what the heck, he's got a doctor's slip to return to work so let's just not talk about it again. And speaking about not talking about IT, their first intimate encounter was with happy fingers...then snap...they jump apart...act like NO THAT CAN'T EVER HAPPEN AGAIN! Then in the next (heavy) breath they go right back to a discussion on decorating his apartment. WTH. Can't these young people ever talk through anything that means anything???
I did like the writing. It flowed pretty smooth, just all the plot hurdles (way too many IMHO) slowed it down. I really liked the humor, some of it was silly (and made me laugh) and some of it was really witty (which kept me engaged). I liked Blake Shelton ;) So between the awesome cover, the humor, and the secondary cast of thousands (I loved that both our MCs have loving families), and Reece (a really great guy albeit clueless about a lot of stuff) I am rating this a 3*
A couple of things where big holdups for me. First, why didn't Erin, Reece's sister and Sloane's best friend, intercede more? Why didn't any of their childhood friends? I also didn't feel all the plot points had enough, or any, closure. But my biggest thing was Sloane.
I liked her in the beginning, but she did not grow as a character for me much beyond the 50% mark until the very end of their journey. She was plainly and continually mean to Reece (yeah, yeah, I get it *air quotes* she had "shields") far too long after they started to work toward each other. And Reece had a hard way to go to prove he cared about her. She saw to that. And he did show he cared (that was pretty swoony stuff). Some of the things Sloane said to him made me want to throat check her. Drunk email was not even the worst of it. But that's me. You might be more sympathetic. You might like this chaotic girl-child with blue hair LOL. Cleary Reece thought she was worth it in the end. I can deal with that, my man. I can deal. Try not to get hurt so much anymore, okay? Someone has to dress Peaches responsibly.
*ARC received through NetGalley for an honest review*
Five stars for that Thinker of a firefighter...but I digress.
My first Jennifer Blackwood story. I liked her writing style, pace, and the getting-to-know-you convos and humor in the first half of the book. I say this because the "auction" trope has never been a fave of mine, especially when the participant is being forced to participate. I'm looking at you chief! Again...that cover drew me ;)
Still, I do lurve me some second chance frenemies to lovers trope!! How doesn't working out all those issues that could easily have been righted with one, maybe two, intelligent grown-up heart-to-hearts! So I hung. And then the author started to throw lots of obstacles in our MCs paths. As if his job being on the line wasn't enuf (auction shenanigans and her "report" back to the chief after the favors are done) there was...well...I'm not gonna tell you cause it would spoil the plot. Let's just say that the author could have weeded out 2/3 of the hurdles and gave us more backstory on the OM and Sloane's relationship, more of Sloane (a nurse) being concerned about Reese's "accidents" on the job. Scheesh. He gets **** AND **** AND a concussion, but what the heck, he's got a doctor's slip to return to work so let's just not talk about it again. And speaking about not talking about IT, their first intimate encounter was with happy fingers...then snap...they jump apart...act like NO THAT CAN'T EVER HAPPEN AGAIN! Then in the next (heavy) breath they go right back to a discussion on decorating his apartment. WTH. Can't these young people ever talk through anything that means anything???
I did like the writing. It flowed pretty smooth, just all the plot hurdles (way too many IMHO) slowed it down. I really liked the humor, some of it was silly (and made me laugh) and some of it was really witty (which kept me engaged). I liked Blake Shelton ;) So between the awesome cover, the humor, and the secondary cast of thousands (I loved that both our MCs have loving families), and Reece (a really great guy albeit clueless about a lot of stuff) I am rating this a 3*
A couple of things where big holdups for me. First, why didn't Erin, Reece's sister and Sloane's best friend, intercede more? Why didn't any of their childhood friends? I also didn't feel all the plot points had enough, or any, closure. But my biggest thing was Sloane.
I liked her in the beginning, but she did not grow as a character for me much beyond the 50% mark until the very end of their journey. She was plainly and continually mean to Reece (yeah, yeah, I get it *air quotes* she had "shields") far too long after they started to work toward each other. And Reece had a hard way to go to prove he cared about her. She saw to that. And he did show he cared (that was pretty swoony stuff). Some of the things Sloane said to him made me want to throat check her. Drunk email was not even the worst of it. But that's me. You might be more sympathetic. You might like this chaotic girl-child with blue hair LOL. Cleary Reece thought she was worth it in the end. I can deal with that, my man. I can deal. Try not to get hurt so much anymore, okay? Someone has to dress Peaches responsibly.
*ARC received through NetGalley for an honest review*
November 5, 2018
Sloane and Reece have been in conflict since he rejected her one night a year ago. Her wrath leads her to bid on him at the firefighter auction - he will have to complete 4 tasks of her choosing, and she plans to make him pay for the past. The punishment gets off to a good (and somewhat comical) start, but the more time they spend together, the more it is apparent that the tension between them is not just bad feelings - it's desire.
I'm giving this an average rating because it is an average romance for me. It was a little hotter than book one, probably because Reece thought about sex more than Jake did from book one. But, I felt like the author missed some opportunities - there was great tension between Sloane and Jake in the beginning. Usually, as that tension gets alleviated by acting on their desires, some element of drama gets cranked up to fill that tension void. In this story, the element of drama was lame, so it made the story feel unbalanced. I still liked the characters and their HEA. It was still entertaining, but all in all, it made for an average storyline.
I'm giving this an average rating because it is an average romance for me. It was a little hotter than book one, probably because Reece thought about sex more than Jake did from book one. But, I felt like the author missed some opportunities - there was great tension between Sloane and Jake in the beginning. Usually, as that tension gets alleviated by acting on their desires, some element of drama gets cranked up to fill that tension void. In this story, the element of drama was lame, so it made the story feel unbalanced. I still liked the characters and their HEA. It was still entertaining, but all in all, it made for an average storyline.
August 8, 2018
Somehow I feel as though I need this caveat, as always, before I begin this review. My expectations, when it comes to romantic fiction are tuned differently when when I read general fiction; better put, the very classification of the genre shapes what I naturally want to read of my protagonists, so their traits are looked at not just in terms of their social contributions (good soldier/cop/firefighter), or their generosities to their families, or how often they mow the lawn for their blind neighbours, for instance, which many authors love to highlight.
In contrast, I typically look at romantic heroism through the lens of other qualities, such as integrity, commitment, the care and concern because this genre is precisely one in which such things seem necessary for the guaranteed HEA that is its peculiar characteristic. I’ve been confronted with too many protagonists who fall out of this framework of late, and instead conform to stereotypes that have me rolling my eyes, which accounts for my inability to like a book more because of it.
Jennifer Blackwood’s ‘Up in Flames’ was unfortunately, yet another one of those for me. It’s certainly a story that will appeal to others: the rather light-hearted feel, the slight bit of angst to stir up some emotions about a backstory accounting for present-day terrible behaviour and the eventual but rocky road to redemption and a HEA.
What stood out for me was the very relatable Sloane, but then I’ve always liked seeing this sort of scrappy strength in a romantic heroine: somewhat bitter about a breakup but still digging in, hanging on in control, refusing to be vulnerable, with her brain turning to mush at the sight of Reece’s body being the only cringeworthy characteristic I found.
In contrast, Reece felt like too much of the clichéd, ego-filled, manwhore arsehole player for me—doing the rounds with eight of the nurses in Sloane’s workplace first made him beyond distasteful (armed with the usual excuse of having been hurt so long ago and thus is into emotionless hooking up from now onwards) in contrast to Sloane’s impressive sticking it through with her one and only long-term relationship despite it ending badly. Adding the fact that he’d always had a thing for her on and off throughout most of their lives, was waffling about the idea of ‘them’ up until quite literally the last few lines in the second-last chapter…well, I couldn’t quite find too much of a basis to even root for this pairing when there didn’t seem to be that much of an active push for both to be together.
The enemies-to-lovers trope is a deliciously cool one (which had me jumping on this) but with constant thoughts intruding about Sloane deserving way better than settling for what I honestly thought was a chemistry-less relationship, this is clearly not a book that worked for me.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
In contrast, I typically look at romantic heroism through the lens of other qualities, such as integrity, commitment, the care and concern because this genre is precisely one in which such things seem necessary for the guaranteed HEA that is its peculiar characteristic. I’ve been confronted with too many protagonists who fall out of this framework of late, and instead conform to stereotypes that have me rolling my eyes, which accounts for my inability to like a book more because of it.
Jennifer Blackwood’s ‘Up in Flames’ was unfortunately, yet another one of those for me. It’s certainly a story that will appeal to others: the rather light-hearted feel, the slight bit of angst to stir up some emotions about a backstory accounting for present-day terrible behaviour and the eventual but rocky road to redemption and a HEA.
What stood out for me was the very relatable Sloane, but then I’ve always liked seeing this sort of scrappy strength in a romantic heroine: somewhat bitter about a breakup but still digging in, hanging on in control, refusing to be vulnerable, with her brain turning to mush at the sight of Reece’s body being the only cringeworthy characteristic I found.
In contrast, Reece felt like too much of the clichéd, ego-filled, manwhore arsehole player for me—doing the rounds with eight of the nurses in Sloane’s workplace first made him beyond distasteful (armed with the usual excuse of having been hurt so long ago and thus is into emotionless hooking up from now onwards) in contrast to Sloane’s impressive sticking it through with her one and only long-term relationship despite it ending badly. Adding the fact that he’d always had a thing for her on and off throughout most of their lives, was waffling about the idea of ‘them’ up until quite literally the last few lines in the second-last chapter…well, I couldn’t quite find too much of a basis to even root for this pairing when there didn’t seem to be that much of an active push for both to be together.
The enemies-to-lovers trope is a deliciously cool one (which had me jumping on this) but with constant thoughts intruding about Sloane deserving way better than settling for what I honestly thought was a chemistry-less relationship, this is clearly not a book that worked for me.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
October 9, 2018
This is the second book in the Flirting With Fire series and although I haven’t read book #1 (yet) I was assured that this one could be read as a standalone.
This is also the first book that I’ve read by Jennifer Blackwood.
I found the story to be a bit of a slow burner. We meet the characters, which are well developed and are immediately thrown into the midst of the tension that exists between Sloane and Reece. The fact that they have friends in common means avoiding each other is tricky.
The relationships between all the characters is insightful and I suspect that even more would be gained by having the initial introduction to the characters in book #1.
There’s humour and flirting and a battle of wills. It’s well written and certainly kept me hooked. Although I expected the sting in the tail quite early on, when it finally came, it was so beautifully and emotionally written that I still found a lump in my throat.
This book wasn’t what I was expecting. It’s not a quick, hot fireman story. Sure, Reece is gorgeous, caring, loyal and totally off the charts hot but this story is really character driven, which makes it so much more!
Highly recommend!
This is also the first book that I’ve read by Jennifer Blackwood.
I found the story to be a bit of a slow burner. We meet the characters, which are well developed and are immediately thrown into the midst of the tension that exists between Sloane and Reece. The fact that they have friends in common means avoiding each other is tricky.
The relationships between all the characters is insightful and I suspect that even more would be gained by having the initial introduction to the characters in book #1.
There’s humour and flirting and a battle of wills. It’s well written and certainly kept me hooked. Although I expected the sting in the tail quite early on, when it finally came, it was so beautifully and emotionally written that I still found a lump in my throat.
This book wasn’t what I was expecting. It’s not a quick, hot fireman story. Sure, Reece is gorgeous, caring, loyal and totally off the charts hot but this story is really character driven, which makes it so much more!
Highly recommend!
November 25, 2018
I have to say that I liked this book better than the first one. The banter between Reece and Sloane was great. Blackwood definitely showcased on the chemistry between them by putting their love hate relationship on display. I know that Sloane was portrayed as a strong female character but I think that deep down she was a bit on the sensitive side when it came to Reece. She took anything he said at face value and didnt look at the meaning behind some things. Reece seems to be a great friend, brother and son, although, his boss doesnt seem to like him one bit! When Sloane made him become a foster dog parent to the tiny Peaches I was dying. She is so smart and conniving it was great! In the end all was at it should be and they shared a great Christmas together with Reece's whole family, which obviously includes Sloanes bff. I hope that the next book is something to do with Hollywood because he seems like a great character.
August 3, 2018
Rcvd an ARC at no cost to author. (netgalley) .2.5 stars I wasn't crazy about this book. There was so much back and forth with Reece and Sloane that it got tiring. These were two adults that acted as children, I get animosity and I get fighting attraction but it was the whole book and I honestly had to make myself finish the book. I liked this author with her part in "Tap That" with RC Boldt and it was hilarious, loved that book but this one and the one before it was not great at all, I think it is times for me to get off of the train.
September 27, 2018
“Giggles”....oh my!!! I giggled so many times throughout Up in Flames.....
Sloane and Reece’s banter was priceless!!!! The history that the two had played a HUGE part in how they were with each other.....Reece....SMH!!!!
As the story progressed, you (the reader) were front row reading how these two came to see each other differently.
And I must say.....I will never look at a Roomba the same way again!!!
Sloane and Reece’s banter was priceless!!!! The history that the two had played a HUGE part in how they were with each other.....Reece....SMH!!!!
As the story progressed, you (the reader) were front row reading how these two came to see each other differently.
And I must say.....I will never look at a Roomba the same way again!!!
September 1, 2018
I am so DISSAPOINTED!
I DNF at 40% I LOVED the first book in this series, But this one, man it was push and pull push and pull until I quit, I couldn't do it. The characters pissed me off to much to look at how good the witting was or that it was one of favourite tropes.
I DNF at 40% I LOVED the first book in this series, But this one, man it was push and pull push and pull until I quit, I couldn't do it. The characters pissed me off to much to look at how good the witting was or that it was one of favourite tropes.
October 22, 2018
My preferred book character rules of conduct kept me from overly enjoying this one, folks. You see, as an avid romantic at heart, I’m just not particularly into unapologetic, womanizing manhos. That is definitely how Reese, the hero, first came across. His day job as a fireman had him putting out fires and saving lives on a daily basis, but according to his referenced former nighttime sexcapades he was well known for unleashing havoc and heartbreak with his “once and done”, “use them then lose them”, non-dating philosophy. Blaming that misbehaving on a former broken heart, which he claimed made him afraid to love again, turned this courageous fireman into an emotionally cowardly lion.
Knowing he’s formerly messed around with almost a dozen of the heroine’s fellow nurse co-workers made me glad they are all hospital employees. Hopefully, being in this field, they know to get checked for STDs after their brief, smexy few hours with him. Better yet, they should sign up for some therapist couch time to find out why they did it in the first place. You see, he always made it perfectly clear he didn’t want a real relationship, and they had to have known about the previous OW since they worked together.
He actually did the right thing with Sloane almost a year ago when a would be smexy encounter went sideways. However, the hurtful, tactless manner it was done had me shaking my head. She’s not gotten over it either, folks. I would have rather seen her smile and kill him with kindness though, instead of turning bitter, resentful, and sarcastic. Not that I didn’t enjoy and even chuckle sometimes when she talked about him or put him in his place. At least she was calling him out his bad boy behavior, while others looked the other way.
It did seem childish of Sloane though to resort to acts of revenge. “Let it go, lady…” is what I wanted to convey to her. Her backlash comments could be funny, but a vengeful, catty attitude doesn’t look good on anyone. Nor does immature behavior.
As the plot unfolds as spelled out in the synopsis, they naturally start spending time together, and we quickly start to see a better side to Reese. Honestly though, having his own heart broke in the past should have made him want to be a better man, IMHO.
I did somewhat let go of my beef with Reese for a while and started to accept things as they were. Unfortunately, my interest in this romance completely went up in flames from the mediocre writing that crept in. Reasons to dislike Reese and find him annoying also kept reoccurring. Sloane also started to get on my nerves. She went from sassy to a sappy, doormat heroine.
On a final note, did anyone else find the book cover reminded them of a “The Thinker” “Mr. Universe” pose? lol
Romance Safety Gang:
Tite: Up in Flames, Series: Flirting with Fire (Book 2), Author: Jennifer Blackwood, Pages: 300, stand-alone but part of a series, enemies to lovers, former manho/firefighter hero, nurse heroine, author I usually really like, knucklehead moments, steamy scenes.
Book 1 - Burning Up
My review: 4 stars
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 2 - Up in Flames
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this
review, nor is there any affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley)
December 31, 2022
Up in Flames is book 2 in the Flirting with fire duology but they can be read as Standalone but i would say to read book 1 before going into book 2 because you get to see all the characters from book 1 in this book..
It was a really good book.. It was funny, sassy characters, fast read, strong friendships, a strong family feel too, a bit sad at parts of the book and this book makes you want to keep reading until you finish the book..
The strong friendship between Reece, Jake and Cole you get to see a lot of that in this book and it so sweet to see best friends that care and look out for each other.. There is also a strong relationship between Erin. Sloane and Madison which is awesome to see..
Fav characters: Reece, Sloane, Erin, Jake, Madison, Mrs., Jenkins, Cole, Bailey, Andie
The characters are awesome and i liked that all the characters from the 1st book was in this book.. I really liked Reece and Sloane's Relationship in this book because it was so sweet, funny and sad as well.. I did really like the ending of the book because it was so cute, sweet and you get to see a couple of pages at the end of the book that tells you wants happened to the characters and there relationships and it was so sweet to read..
This book is packed full of:
⦁ Awesome Characters
⦁ Firefighter/Nurse Romance
⦁ Sisters Best friend Trope
⦁ Enemies to Lovers
⦁ Christmas Themed
⦁ Some Steam
⦁ A cute wee dog
⦁ Hero has liked the heroine for years
⦁ Possessive hero
⦁ strong family Relationships
⦁ Sweet hero/Curvy women
I would like to see another book in this series about Cole and if he can find love because his character was so funny and very sassy.. His co-workers/best friends Reece and Jake nicknamed him Hollywood because they thought it was funny but also because he is a charmer and very sassy..
It was a really good book.. It was funny, sassy characters, fast read, strong friendships, a strong family feel too, a bit sad at parts of the book and this book makes you want to keep reading until you finish the book..
The strong friendship between Reece, Jake and Cole you get to see a lot of that in this book and it so sweet to see best friends that care and look out for each other.. There is also a strong relationship between Erin. Sloane and Madison which is awesome to see..
Fav characters: Reece, Sloane, Erin, Jake, Madison, Mrs., Jenkins, Cole, Bailey, Andie
The characters are awesome and i liked that all the characters from the 1st book was in this book.. I really liked Reece and Sloane's Relationship in this book because it was so sweet, funny and sad as well.. I did really like the ending of the book because it was so cute, sweet and you get to see a couple of pages at the end of the book that tells you wants happened to the characters and there relationships and it was so sweet to read..
This book is packed full of:
⦁ Awesome Characters
⦁ Firefighter/Nurse Romance
⦁ Sisters Best friend Trope
⦁ Enemies to Lovers
⦁ Christmas Themed
⦁ Some Steam
⦁ A cute wee dog
⦁ Hero has liked the heroine for years
⦁ Possessive hero
⦁ strong family Relationships
⦁ Sweet hero/Curvy women
I would like to see another book in this series about Cole and if he can find love because his character was so funny and very sassy.. His co-workers/best friends Reece and Jake nicknamed him Hollywood because they thought it was funny but also because he is a charmer and very sassy..
October 9, 2018
Boy, where to start? The cover for Up in Flames is hot. The troupe of sibling best friend to older brother was intriguing. Sloan was a hot mess, but with some redeeming qualities. Reese was annoying older brother that was a hot firefighter. You would think this would add up to a great read, but, yeah no, it was just OK.
Both Sloan and Reese came off as aggravating at one time or another, which could a good thing; it’s just that it wasn’t. The push and pull of the story was frustrating, just when you thought they might work through their difference, something would happen and they would be back to bickering. Not snarky banter, but bickering and there is only so much of that you can read over and over.
There was plenty of humor in the book and when Sloan and Reese finally get it together, the author gives us another stumbling block to their HEA. And while I understand why this had to happen to wrap up the story, I was disappointed that so predictable.
2 Stars #2OCCMS
Both Sloan and Reese came off as aggravating at one time or another, which could a good thing; it’s just that it wasn’t. The push and pull of the story was frustrating, just when you thought they might work through their difference, something would happen and they would be back to bickering. Not snarky banter, but bickering and there is only so much of that you can read over and over.
There was plenty of humor in the book and when Sloan and Reese finally get it together, the author gives us another stumbling block to their HEA. And while I understand why this had to happen to wrap up the story, I was disappointed that so predictable.
2 Stars #2OCCMS
October 8, 2018
3.5 stars. Full review to come.
October 8, 2018
This is the second book in the series, and I enjoyed it more than book 1!
Reece Jenkins is a top notch firefighter, and the older brother of the heroine, Erin, from book 1. He had a horrible breakup with his high school sweetheart about 10 years before, and he's never gotten serious with anyone else since then. It's always one and done for him. He has no one to worry about in his life but his family, and his team at work (which includes his lifelong best friend, Jake, the hero from book 1), and that is how he wants it to stay. No one to think about, or answer to. But, his new chief at the station hates him, and has basically ordered him to participate in the firefighter's auction at a charity event. The firefighter being auctioned has to do 4 favors in 4 weeks for the winner. He has no idea how the woman who bids on him will change his life. Especially since he's already known her for so many years.
Sloane Garcia is an amazing nurse practitioner in the ER, and she loves her job. She has also been an honorary member of the Jenkins family since she was a kid, and became best friends with Erin. She was always over there with Erin, and following Reece and Jake around growing up. Once they hit high school, at 4 years their senior, Reece wasn't really in the same friend group as the girls, and he had a serious girlfriend, so they all weren't as close. Then a year ago after a terrible breakup, Sloane was drowning her sorrows at the bar when Reece offered to drive her home. She came on to him, and he declined, in the STUPIDEST way possible, and she's never forgiven him. Now, all they do is snipe and bicker at each other, and it's driving the rest of their friends insane. She decides to get ultimate revenge on Reece by winning him at the auction. She'll have 4 solid weeks to make his life miserable. Best laid plans...
Reece and Sloane had chemistry like whoa, and everyone could see it, even through their constant fighting. Reece has always wanted Sloane, but she was drunk that night, and he refused to take advantage of the situation. He's felt tremendously bad about how he turned her down though, and now she hates him, and won't ever let him get a word in long enough to apologize. When they finally start spending time together after the auction, things begin to change. Reece is finally able to apologize for the part he's played in their feud, and Sloane finally actually listens to him, and believes that he's sorry. They both start to see each other in a new light, and it was so fun to watch.
Reece's foster dog Peaches was a hilarious character unto herself! I loved watching all her antics, especially her fear of a certain famous country singer, which made me laugh out loud every time. The supporting cast, including Reece's family, and work friends, Sloane's friends at the hospital, and her other best friend, Madison, made for an entertaining group. I especially loved getting to know the youngest Jenkins sister, Andie, a little better. I'm hoping we learn even more about her in the future. Madison was also a hilarious, and I'm hoping her story will be next.
I liked how the main characters really learned to communicate with each other, and I always appreciate when the issues they face in the story aren't due to a lack of communication. Reece was honest about his failings in his dealings with Sloane in the past, and Sloane was honest about her hurt in how the situation was handled. She was also finally healing from her horrible breakup and the awful things her ex said to her, so she was better able to realize that the grudge she'd been holding wasn't solely about Reece anyway. I really liked that once they started truly talking to each other, they realized how much they enjoyed each other's company. The conflict was believable, and I really felt for both of them while it was all going on.
I definitely recommend this story, as I liked it more than book 1. Both characters in book 1 felt so wishy-washy to me about their feelings, even in their internal monologues, and I didn't feel that way here. I felt these main characters were much more honest with themselves about their situation, and I appreciated that a lot. I will definitely be looking forward to more in this series.
ARC provided by Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Megan from Alpha Book Club
Reece Jenkins is a top notch firefighter, and the older brother of the heroine, Erin, from book 1. He had a horrible breakup with his high school sweetheart about 10 years before, and he's never gotten serious with anyone else since then. It's always one and done for him. He has no one to worry about in his life but his family, and his team at work (which includes his lifelong best friend, Jake, the hero from book 1), and that is how he wants it to stay. No one to think about, or answer to. But, his new chief at the station hates him, and has basically ordered him to participate in the firefighter's auction at a charity event. The firefighter being auctioned has to do 4 favors in 4 weeks for the winner. He has no idea how the woman who bids on him will change his life. Especially since he's already known her for so many years.
Sloane Garcia is an amazing nurse practitioner in the ER, and she loves her job. She has also been an honorary member of the Jenkins family since she was a kid, and became best friends with Erin. She was always over there with Erin, and following Reece and Jake around growing up. Once they hit high school, at 4 years their senior, Reece wasn't really in the same friend group as the girls, and he had a serious girlfriend, so they all weren't as close. Then a year ago after a terrible breakup, Sloane was drowning her sorrows at the bar when Reece offered to drive her home. She came on to him, and he declined, in the STUPIDEST way possible, and she's never forgiven him. Now, all they do is snipe and bicker at each other, and it's driving the rest of their friends insane. She decides to get ultimate revenge on Reece by winning him at the auction. She'll have 4 solid weeks to make his life miserable. Best laid plans...
Reece and Sloane had chemistry like whoa, and everyone could see it, even through their constant fighting. Reece has always wanted Sloane, but she was drunk that night, and he refused to take advantage of the situation. He's felt tremendously bad about how he turned her down though, and now she hates him, and won't ever let him get a word in long enough to apologize. When they finally start spending time together after the auction, things begin to change. Reece is finally able to apologize for the part he's played in their feud, and Sloane finally actually listens to him, and believes that he's sorry. They both start to see each other in a new light, and it was so fun to watch.
Reece's foster dog Peaches was a hilarious character unto herself! I loved watching all her antics, especially her fear of a certain famous country singer, which made me laugh out loud every time. The supporting cast, including Reece's family, and work friends, Sloane's friends at the hospital, and her other best friend, Madison, made for an entertaining group. I especially loved getting to know the youngest Jenkins sister, Andie, a little better. I'm hoping we learn even more about her in the future. Madison was also a hilarious, and I'm hoping her story will be next.
I liked how the main characters really learned to communicate with each other, and I always appreciate when the issues they face in the story aren't due to a lack of communication. Reece was honest about his failings in his dealings with Sloane in the past, and Sloane was honest about her hurt in how the situation was handled. She was also finally healing from her horrible breakup and the awful things her ex said to her, so she was better able to realize that the grudge she'd been holding wasn't solely about Reece anyway. I really liked that once they started truly talking to each other, they realized how much they enjoyed each other's company. The conflict was believable, and I really felt for both of them while it was all going on.
I definitely recommend this story, as I liked it more than book 1. Both characters in book 1 felt so wishy-washy to me about their feelings, even in their internal monologues, and I didn't feel that way here. I felt these main characters were much more honest with themselves about their situation, and I appreciated that a lot. I will definitely be looking forward to more in this series.
ARC provided by Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Megan from Alpha Book Club
September 10, 2018
[I received a digital arc from netgalley for an honest review]
Up in Flames by Jennifer Blackwood is the second book in the Flirting with Fire series but can me read as a standalone. I am new to this series and thoroughly enjoyed !
Reece Jenkins is almost the complete package, muscles ✔ tattoos ✔ firefighter ✔ volunteer ✔ his problem is that he's given up on love. After having his heartbroken by the girl he thought was the one he decides to stick with one night stands and no strings attached. Sloan Garcia is a caring Nurse Practitioner who spends her down time volunteering at her local animal shelter. From her blue hair alone you know she has a big personality that's fun. Even though she is finally out of a long term relationship that completely failed she still has hope she finds love.
Reece and Sloan have known each other since high school, she's his sisters best friend. They were always cordial with each other until one night when Sloan has too much to drink. She comes onto Reece and the only thing he can think to do to diffuse the situation is to say she's completely not his type. Ever since then they have become enemies, and Sloan can't stand to be in the same room as him. When the opportunity arises for Sloan to buy him at the annual firefighter action charity event she decides it will be the best revenge to have him at her mercy for a whole month. Reece didn't realize how much he craved Sloan till he's stuck spending so much time with her, and he has to decide if he's ready to explore it as more than a one night stand. Sloan doesn't trust her physical reactions to Reece and doesn't want to be another notch in his bedpost. With Sloans tasks and interference from their friends they manage to move from enemies to friends to a lot more.
Overall this was a great enemy to lovers romance. It had plenty of sexual tension, smoking hot firefighters, and playful banter. I am looking forward to reading more of Jennifer Blackwoods books in the future.
Up in Flames by Jennifer Blackwood is the second book in the Flirting with Fire series but can me read as a standalone. I am new to this series and thoroughly enjoyed !
Reece Jenkins is almost the complete package, muscles ✔ tattoos ✔ firefighter ✔ volunteer ✔ his problem is that he's given up on love. After having his heartbroken by the girl he thought was the one he decides to stick with one night stands and no strings attached. Sloan Garcia is a caring Nurse Practitioner who spends her down time volunteering at her local animal shelter. From her blue hair alone you know she has a big personality that's fun. Even though she is finally out of a long term relationship that completely failed she still has hope she finds love.
Reece and Sloan have known each other since high school, she's his sisters best friend. They were always cordial with each other until one night when Sloan has too much to drink. She comes onto Reece and the only thing he can think to do to diffuse the situation is to say she's completely not his type. Ever since then they have become enemies, and Sloan can't stand to be in the same room as him. When the opportunity arises for Sloan to buy him at the annual firefighter action charity event she decides it will be the best revenge to have him at her mercy for a whole month. Reece didn't realize how much he craved Sloan till he's stuck spending so much time with her, and he has to decide if he's ready to explore it as more than a one night stand. Sloan doesn't trust her physical reactions to Reece and doesn't want to be another notch in his bedpost. With Sloans tasks and interference from their friends they manage to move from enemies to friends to a lot more.
Overall this was a great enemy to lovers romance. It had plenty of sexual tension, smoking hot firefighters, and playful banter. I am looking forward to reading more of Jennifer Blackwoods books in the future.
"The tanned column of her throat was exposed, and he had the sudden urge to run his tongue along the golden-brown skin."
"He let out a deep laugh that went straight to the space between her thighs, and then he beamed at her, his lips twisting in a smirk that made everything clench."
3.5/5🌟
September 21, 2023
3.5 stars
Up In Flames was not on my radar at all. I was in the mood for Christian Fox's voice and I picked this one solely for his narration.
Sloane is best friends with Reece's sister, so they've always been in each other's orbit. But something happened the previous year that made Sloane hate Reece. They've been enemies ever since. And now Sloane has the perfect means for revenge when she wins four favours from Reece at a firefighter auction for charity.
I've noticed that there are quite a few reviewers who didn't like this book because they thought the push and pull was extreme. And I'm over here thinking, "Did we read the same book?!" 😂 If you think this is extreme push and pull, then I don't think you've read a lot of enemies to lovers books 😂
All this to say that I disagree with these reviews. Up In Flames is a typical frenemies to lovers romance and the transition from enemies to lovers is well-done. Sloane and Reece even fell for each other at the same time. It takes them a long time to finally cross that line because Sloane has legitimate concerns about Reece's past. But the relationship development is well-written and the slow burn is the perfect trope because Sloane and Reece finally get on the same page by the time they sleep with each other.
My absolute favourite part about this book is the chihuahua Peaches and her fear of Blake Shelton 🤣🤣🤣 The conflict was also resolved in a very mature way. I was pleasantly surprised by how Reece and Sloane handled and resolved this conflict.
There is an ongoing plotline about an arsonist that wasn't resolved. And it looked like the author was planning future stories in this series, but I guess that's not happening anymore? Anyway, the only reason I'm not giving this a full 4 star rating is simply because I wasn't invested in the firefighting stuff and there was quite a bit of it in the story.
Up In Flames was not on my radar at all. I was in the mood for Christian Fox's voice and I picked this one solely for his narration.
Sloane is best friends with Reece's sister, so they've always been in each other's orbit. But something happened the previous year that made Sloane hate Reece. They've been enemies ever since. And now Sloane has the perfect means for revenge when she wins four favours from Reece at a firefighter auction for charity.
I've noticed that there are quite a few reviewers who didn't like this book because they thought the push and pull was extreme. And I'm over here thinking, "Did we read the same book?!" 😂 If you think this is extreme push and pull, then I don't think you've read a lot of enemies to lovers books 😂
All this to say that I disagree with these reviews. Up In Flames is a typical frenemies to lovers romance and the transition from enemies to lovers is well-done. Sloane and Reece even fell for each other at the same time. It takes them a long time to finally cross that line because Sloane has legitimate concerns about Reece's past. But the relationship development is well-written and the slow burn is the perfect trope because Sloane and Reece finally get on the same page by the time they sleep with each other.
My absolute favourite part about this book is the chihuahua Peaches and her fear of Blake Shelton 🤣🤣🤣 The conflict was also resolved in a very mature way. I was pleasantly surprised by how Reece and Sloane handled and resolved this conflict.
There is an ongoing plotline about an arsonist that wasn't resolved. And it looked like the author was planning future stories in this series, but I guess that's not happening anymore? Anyway, the only reason I'm not giving this a full 4 star rating is simply because I wasn't invested in the firefighting stuff and there was quite a bit of it in the story.
March 30, 2020
Meu deus!!!! Mais uma história que nos leva a lua..
Neste livro conhecemos melhor o irmão de Erin, Reece Jenkins. Reece, melhor amigo de Jake que faz par amoroso com Erin, uma pessoa que aguarda algum ressentimento sobre as relações após a sua namorada do secundário o traído e o ter deixado. Contudo, isso muda tudo quando sentimentos antigos que ele tinha pela melhor e sua irmã, Sloane, vem ao de cima.
Tal como o primeiro livro, este livro deixa nos a pedir mais e mais, cada página, cada capítulo, não conseguimos parar de ler pois queremos ver o desenrolar do relacionamento do Reece e de Sloane. Ao inicio, eles eram como cão e gato, não se suportavam devido aos erros de Reece, mas isso muda quando eles se aproximam por causa de um leilão ao qual Sloane leilou Reece para lhe fazer a vida negra.
Adorei a história, adorei o relacionamento deles e gostava de ter mais livros sobre o quartel onde Jake e Reece trabalham!!!
Recomendo a leitura e mais uma vez, a capa engana muito. É um romance erótico bastante leve e bastante fofinho, por isso, deixo aqui a minha recomendação para a leitura do mesmo..não se vão arrepender!!!
Neste livro conhecemos melhor o irmão de Erin, Reece Jenkins. Reece, melhor amigo de Jake que faz par amoroso com Erin, uma pessoa que aguarda algum ressentimento sobre as relações após a sua namorada do secundário o traído e o ter deixado. Contudo, isso muda tudo quando sentimentos antigos que ele tinha pela melhor e sua irmã, Sloane, vem ao de cima.
Tal como o primeiro livro, este livro deixa nos a pedir mais e mais, cada página, cada capítulo, não conseguimos parar de ler pois queremos ver o desenrolar do relacionamento do Reece e de Sloane. Ao inicio, eles eram como cão e gato, não se suportavam devido aos erros de Reece, mas isso muda quando eles se aproximam por causa de um leilão ao qual Sloane leilou Reece para lhe fazer a vida negra.
Adorei a história, adorei o relacionamento deles e gostava de ter mais livros sobre o quartel onde Jake e Reece trabalham!!!
Recomendo a leitura e mais uma vez, a capa engana muito. É um romance erótico bastante leve e bastante fofinho, por isso, deixo aqui a minha recomendação para a leitura do mesmo..não se vão arrepender!!!
August 2, 2021
Um pouco de ódio amor nunca desiludiu ninguém, certo?
"Em Chamas" traz-nos duas personagens que já conheciamos do livro anterior.
Sloane e Reece, melhor amiga e irmão de Erin respectivamente, não gostam um do outro e fazem de tudo para não se encontrarem... tudo devido a um pequeno incidente que houve no passado. Sloane ganha quatro favores do Bombeiro e este não pode recusar porque o seu emprego está em risco. Será que esses favores vão fazer com que se apercebam que na realidade eles não se detestam assim tanto?
Sinceramente não tenho muito a dizer sobre este livro, assim como não tive muito a dizer do primeiro. É leve, divertido e dá para rir em certos momentos. É o típico livro que acho que é bom para quando estamos em ressaca literária e quando queremos algo que seja rápido de ler sem ter que pensar muito sobre o que estamos a ler.
Num livro deste género, ainda assim, gosto mais quando as personagens têm mais desenvolvimento , mas ainda assim satisfaz os pontos necessários para ser uma leitura agradável.
Agora que acabei esta duologia não sei se irei ler mais alguma coisa da autora, ainda que não tenha sido uma má duologia, nãp houve nada de surpreendente que me agarrasse a sério à história e personagens.
"Em Chamas" traz-nos duas personagens que já conheciamos do livro anterior.
Sloane e Reece, melhor amiga e irmão de Erin respectivamente, não gostam um do outro e fazem de tudo para não se encontrarem... tudo devido a um pequeno incidente que houve no passado. Sloane ganha quatro favores do Bombeiro e este não pode recusar porque o seu emprego está em risco. Será que esses favores vão fazer com que se apercebam que na realidade eles não se detestam assim tanto?
Sinceramente não tenho muito a dizer sobre este livro, assim como não tive muito a dizer do primeiro. É leve, divertido e dá para rir em certos momentos. É o típico livro que acho que é bom para quando estamos em ressaca literária e quando queremos algo que seja rápido de ler sem ter que pensar muito sobre o que estamos a ler.
Num livro deste género, ainda assim, gosto mais quando as personagens têm mais desenvolvimento , mas ainda assim satisfaz os pontos necessários para ser uma leitura agradável.
Agora que acabei esta duologia não sei se irei ler mais alguma coisa da autora, ainda que não tenha sido uma má duologia, nãp houve nada de surpreendente que me agarrasse a sério à história e personagens.
October 14, 2018
The second book in the series but you don’t need to read the first one. In that one Reece Jenkins a firefighter and has known Sloane Garcia for a long time. Took her home because she was drunk. What he said that night instead of just saying no to her come on is still pissing off Sloane months later. This always comes out when the two of them are together, because she is his sister’s best friend. Now everyone around them is getting tired of their verbal banter when she goes to the fireman’s auction with her friend. She ends up winning the bid on Reece and he must do four tasked in four weeks. This starts off like they always do but slowly they begin to show their true feelings towards each other. When the chief of the firehouse receives an e-mail from Sloane, this puts Reece’s job in jeopardy. Now she is trying to fix it with the chief so she can have another chance with Reece. See what happens. A good story and fast read. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 4 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
August 4, 2018
LOVED this book! I was literally laughing out loud and smiling while reading. This is witty and smart and allows us int Reece and Sloane's world, where they are stuck in the annoying hate antics more common to siblings. And, with Reece's best friend and sister a couple and Sloane his sister's best friend, there is no getting away from each other.
Things come to a head when Sloane bids on Reece at the bachelor auction. It's supposed to be four chores in four weeks, however, Sloane has every intention of drawing it out to maximize Reece's discomfort. The first task was hilarious. How something so simple could be made so funny is demonstrative of the the author's talent. This made me laugh through the whole section, especially on how Reece attempted to control the results of that task.
If you want a funny, contemporary romance, you have found it in this novel. It is smart, fun, and a must read for fans of the genre. The author is on my must read authors' list.
Things come to a head when Sloane bids on Reece at the bachelor auction. It's supposed to be four chores in four weeks, however, Sloane has every intention of drawing it out to maximize Reece's discomfort. The first task was hilarious. How something so simple could be made so funny is demonstrative of the the author's talent. This made me laugh through the whole section, especially on how Reece attempted to control the results of that task.
If you want a funny, contemporary romance, you have found it in this novel. It is smart, fun, and a must read for fans of the genre. The author is on my must read authors' list.
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