Danger lurks everywhere for Central Oregon’s fire crews, but the biggest risk of all might be losing their hearts…
Smoke jumper Lincoln Reid is speechless to see Jacob Hartman among his squad’s new recruits. Linc had promised his late best friend he’d stay away from his little brother. And yet here Jacob is…and almost instantly, the same temptation Linc has always felt around him is causing way too many problems.
Jacob gets everyone’s concerns, but he’s waited years for his shot at joining the elite smoke jumping team, hoping to honor his brother’s memory. He’s ready to tackle any challenge Linc throws his way, and senses the chemistry between them—chemistry Linc insists on ignoring—is still alive and kicking. This time, Jacob’s determined to get what he wants.
Close quarters and high stakes make it difficult for Linc to keep his resolve, never mind do so while also making sure the rookie’s safe. But the closer they get, the more Linc’s plan to leave at the end of the season risks him breaking another promise: the one his heart wants to make to Jacob.
Calling all Albert fans!! Behold a new series with firemen as the main attraction!
This first book features Linc and Jacob, who have known and wanted each other for years but have always made excuses to not cross the line. Hence, beware a drawn out back and forth, showcasing deep desires that are painful to witness because whatever barriers they put up (mostly on Linc’s side) seem absolutely inconsequential in the grand scheme of things. However, blame a past shitty family and an albatross of a deceased asshole of a brother/friend that continue to have so much influence on those left alive.
Ensue plenty of angsty pining and lots of guilt and fear of change and disappointing others that hang oh so heavily. Don’t worry though, the conflict didn’t carry on unnecessarily too much (once Linc and Jacob are forced back together as colleagues) and the combustible chemistry and attraction never kept these two apart for long.
Be also reassured that this is full of emotional romance, pretty damn good smex, and realistically captures the danger that both Linc and Jacob face, not only through training but the day to day tasks of their job and of course, when there’s actual fires to be fought.
So why not 4 stars? I’ve made it no secret that I don‘t like “in the closet” stories that much anymore as the anxiety wreaks havoc on my fragile self. I was all set to dig my teeth into the favorite trope of falling for your best friend’s brother, but was a bit surprised and stymied by Linc, amongst the million other reasons why he denied himself happiness. Regardless, I did overall enjoy this, and if you’re an Albert fan this should absolutely not disappoint because who doesn’t love a hot fireman getting it on with another equally hot fireman??
As always, I commend Albert for tackling tough topics such as grief, awful family dynamics, the need to prove one’s worth to those that count, and finding the strength to be happy despite so many internal obstacles. Points for thorough research on smoke jumpers and a very well edited book!
I’m definitely on board for more and look forward to pansexual coworker Garrett’s story next!
Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
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