Things You Save in a Fire by Katherine Center - 4 stars

[Ellen]

Cassie Hanwell loves her job as a firefighter/paramedic in Austin. She is destined to rise through the ranks quickly as she excels at her job and aces promotional tests. When her estranged mother Diana asks that Cassie move in with her in Massachusetts to help after Diana's eye operation, Cassie is reluctant. A confrontation with a powerful man from her past leaves Cassie without a choice in leaving Austin so she heads to Massachusetts to her mother and a job in a century old firehouse with men who are less than thrilled to have a 'lady' join their ranks.

Cassie and a gregarious young rookie start their jobs on the same day and it quickly becomes obvious that the men prefer the rookie over the extremely competent Cassie. Cassie, a loner and not looking for relationships, prefers the rookie as well. She fights against the physical attraction but finds herself drawn to the rookie (Owen) constantly. Someone at the fire house wants Cassie gone and anonymous threats begin to take a toll. Her mother's illness, the unwanted attraction to Owen and the escalating warnings are causing Cassie to rethink her professional choices. Will she ever win over her fellow firefighters?

This was a surprisingly charming story. I don't read romance but this one was good. I liked Cassie quite a bit and who wouldn't love the handsome, sweet young rookie. Cassie's backstory is interesting and the interaction with Diana is touching. All in all this is a story of forgiveness of oneself and others.

[David]

Very nice review.