by J.R. Ward
Series: Firefighters #1
Genres: Romantic Suspense
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Heat Level:
From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the popular Black Dagger Brotherhood series comes a brand-new novel about arson investigator, Ann Ashburn, who is consumed by her troubled past, her family's scorched legacy, and her current case: chasing a deadly killer.
Anne Ashburn is a woman consumed...
By her bitter family legacy, by her scorched career as a firefighter, by her obsession with department bad-boy Danny McGuire, and by a new case that pits her against a fiery killer.
Strong-willed Anne was fearless and loved the thrill of fighting fires, pushing herself to be the best. But when one risky decision at a warehouse fire changes her life forever, Anne must reinvent not only her job, but her whole self.
Shattered and demoralized, Anne finds her new career as an arson investigator a pale substitute for the adrenaline-fueled life she left behind. She doesn't believe she will ever feel that same all-consuming passion for her job again--until she encounters a string of suspicious fires setting her beloved city ablaze.
Danny McGuire is a premiere fireman, best in the county, but in the midst of a personal meltdown. Danny is taking risks like never before and seems to have a death wish until he teams up with Anne to find the fire starter. But Danny may be more than a distraction, and as Anne narrows in on her target, the arsonist begins to target her.
Consumed by J.R. Ward is the first novel in her newest series, Firefighters. Ward shocked me, tugged at my heartstrings and curled my toes as she pulled me into an arson investigation with an unexpected twists. A unique heroine, troubled hero, and burning fire await you in Consumed.
I loved Ward’s Bourbon Kings series, and I’ve been working my way through Ward’s Black Dagger Brotherhood, so I was excited to see a romantic suspense series. After reading the prequels, I was expecting sizzling chemistry and wicked banter as the forbidden romance between Anne Ashburn and Danny McGuire melted my Kindle. And while, Ward set of my smoke detector she also delivered scenes that blew me away, connected me to these characters and even had me shedding tears.
The beginning of this novel is gritty, nail-biting and full of holy shite moments. It felt real and powerful as I was pulled in. Ward did something I never would have expected and birthed a heroine who while flawed is someone you’ll admire and respect. I will leave you to discover what unfolds, but dear reader gather supplies before you begin and shut off your phone. I recommend, wine and chocolate truffles.
The suspense angle took longer to begin as Ward laid the groundwork for Anne to investigate arson cases. Once it began, we witness Anne come into herself as she adjusts and sinks her teeth into her first case. I loved what happen on her first day. I laughed and fell for her even more. Secondary characters like her boss have me wanting to learn more.
Ward blends complex characters into this brotherhood of firemen. Her research is evident, and I loved how she captured their fraternity mentality. She captured their banter, nicknames and loyalty even as they had quibbles and showed the passionate arguing only family can create.
I loved the combination of romance, character growth and the growing suspense of the investigation. While the case wrapped up and Ward left us in a good place, I must admit I cannot wait to see what happens next!
A unique heroine, troubled hero, and burning fire await you in Consumed by J.R. Ward #NewRelease #MustRead Share on X
About Kimberly
Kimberly is a coffee loving book addict who reads and listens to fictional stories in all genres. Whovian, Ravenclaw, Howler and proud Nonna. She owns and manages Caffeinated PR. The coffee is always on and she is ready to chat. BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram
Stefanie
She is a good author whom I need to read more of. You got me at the first paragraph of your review.
I don’t cook brussel sprouts but I’ve eaten them in dishes in restaurants. How do you cook yours?
Kimberly
I like them grilled best, but in a little olive oil with garlic is awesome.
Kimberly @ Book Swoon
I’m going to have to try and grab this one as it is a new series and the concept sounds delicious! 🙂
Kimberly
Kimberly, grab the free prequels for your eReader too!
Lorna
I have seen this one everywhere. I think I need to run to Amazon to get the prequels first. Glad you liked it Kimberly!
Kimberly
Yay. Happy reading 🙂
Tanya @ Rantings of a Reading Addict
The level of intensity in this book left me totally transfixed. I was glued and totally in love. Can’t wait for the next one!
Kimberly
I am looking forward to it at as well.
Melanie Simmons
I saw the prequels and for some reason thought they were BDB books (I’ve gotten a bit burnt out on that series), so I didn’t grab them. I’ll have to get them and give this series a try.
Kimberly
I am only on book 5 of the BDB series. Small does to be sure.
Dani Eide
The cover is gorgeous! ❤️❤️ I haven’t read her brotherhood series … Kimberly, I’m trying to shrink my TBR! It’s growing leaps and bounds!
Kimberly
LOL, I hear you. I read 3 and add 6 to my TBR pile!
Aleen~Lampshade Reader
I love “holy shite” moments in books! Sounds like a good one. 🙂
Kimberly
Lol. Apparently Amazon does not. I had to remove the word.
Nise'
I read the prequels and fell in love with the characters. Looking forward to this book.
Kimberly
Yay. I cannot wait to hear your thoughts
Rachel @Waves of Fiction
I loved her Bourbon Kings series, and this one too, as you know. Soot was a blessing on that first day and I just loved him! This one just came out but I’m anxiously awaiting the next in the series. Hope we get more Anne and Danny in the coming installment, too! Fab review, Kimberly! 🙂
Kimberly
Yes I am hoping for the same Rachel.
Carole @ Carole's Random Life in Books
I might have to give this one a try. I do like Ward’s Black Dagger Brotherhood series so it would be fun to read her writing something a bit different.
Kimberly
I have been impressed Carole
Tonyalee
I’ve been seeing this one around a lot, and feel like I should check it out. I haven’t read Ward’s contemporary yet.
Kimberly
Try the free prequels first Tonyalee. They are on Amazon.
Sophia Rose
My turn to read it soon!!!!
Kimberly
I saw that you got a copy!
Jonetta (Ejaygirl)
Nice review! I was hoping to see you give it a thumbs up. I’m going to listen to it this month.
Kimberly
I do recommend you grab the free prequels first.
Jonetta (Ejaygirl)
Yes, I’ve got them! Thanks for the reminder.
Tyler H. Jolley
I’m so far behind, I don’t think I can start another series just this minute. But I’m intrigued, I might just have to follow along through your blog. Happy reading, Kimba!
Kimberly
I feel you. I am working on old series and keep finding new ones.
Anne
Well I just couldn’t get into BDB but this really sounds good. I really like romantic suspense, investigations and firefighters. I’ll have to decide audio or ebook. Anne – Books of My Heart
Kimberly
This and her Bourbon Kings trilogy are nothing like BDB.
Angela Adams
Complex characters always make for an interesting read. Thanks for the post.
Kimberly
Thanks Angela
Heidi
I still havent’ tried a book by Ward. This might be a good place for me to start. I like that you got a complete story and that there were nail biting moments.
Kimberly
Heidi, Grab the free prequels on Amazon first. I think they will help you establish a connection to the relationships before we get gritty.
Melliane
It was my first book by the atythor but I really enjoyed it! I need to try some other ones
Kimberly
That is so cool!
Debbie Haupt
I have this in digital format but decided to wait to listen on audible. I’ll be starting today so you’ll know what I think next week.. Great review Kim
Kimberly
This will be good on audio.
Nick
I love the cover for this one, Kim! I’m also curious about the brotherhood and the crimes, so it’s on my list! Glad you enjoyed this!
Kimberly
If you love romantic suspense and twists you will enjoy this Nick. However I do recommend you read the free prequels first. They are on Amazon.