Consumed by J R Ward

Consumed (Firefighters, #1)

by J. R. Ward

"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. From the creator of the bestselling Black Dagger Brotherhood, get ready for a new band of brothers. And a firestorm"--

"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"--

Reviewed by kimbacaffeinate on

4 of 5 stars

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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 cannot wait for the next book. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 1 September, 2018: Finished reading
  • 1 September, 2018: Reviewed