I made the mistake of starting this new read close to bedtime, a couple of days ago. Bad move. But really, who knew it wouldn’t let me go before both the end of the book and the night. 6 am is pretty much the end of the night, right?

It was so worth it.

I launched into book 2 first thing the next day but it was like having second helpings of an amazing meal. It was good but didn’t pack quite the same punch. Still another five star read though.

It’s difficult, for me anyway, to pinpoint reasons why it was so good. Reading is always an emotional experience. Good or bad. I love or hate the ride as a package deal. To pick it apart trying to figure out what made it so good would spoil the experience. I know, that’s not the way it is for everyone and it’s a good thing. Who would write awesome reviews if those other people didn’t exist.

Unpleasant reads often have jarring speed bumps along the way. Those bad reasons definitely garner our attention and are easier to identify.

On the other hand, a good read is like a successful run down a challenging ski hill. You get to the bottom with a gigantic fist pump, shouting YES! That was Amazing!

I know, I know. I’ve changed analogies a few times (okay, maybe more than a few) but hopefully you get the picture I’m trying to paint here.

Book 1 was an amazing read.

Expired Return: A thrilling fire and rescue romantic suspense (Last Chance Fire and Rescue Book 1)

Fire. Family. Faith.A wounded hero. A woman in danger. Forced proximity protection and a family they both need…But can he keep them safe?

She’ll give everything to protect her family.

Pepper Miller is a veterinary tech living a peaceful life in Last Chance County. However, when her sister becomes involved in a dangerous drug deal and her niece’s safety is at risk, Pepper will stop at nothing to protect the people she loves…even if it costs her most precious secret.

He always knew she was the one.

Fire Department liaison Allen Frees might be in a wheelchair, but he’s putting his life back together…the only thing missing is the woman he loves. When she needs his help, he’s not going to blow this second chance…No matter the sacrifice.

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Book 2 was good too.

Expired Hope: A gripping fire and rescue romantic suspense (Last Chance Fire and Rescue Book 2)

Fire. Family. Faith.
A fire chief, a woman in danger, a forbidden love…can it survive the flames of revenge?

She’s running to a fresh start…

Veteran and therapist Natalie Atkinson just wants to help heroes survive their past. But when she’s rescued from a fire…and falls for the one person she’s supposed to help…she could destroy both their futures.

It’s his last chance to get it right…

Fire Chief Macon James is the right man for the job–he just has to prove it to the counselor who is signing off on his team. What he doesn’t expect is to fall for her.

But danger is stalking her and someone is going to get hurt.

So, he’ll have to protect her, without crossing any lines. And she’ll have to make sure that she doesn’t get him killed.

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So there we have it.