Heated (Burned, Inc., #1)

by Naima Simone

[Nadz@Totally Addicted to Reading]

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Naima Simone is an author whose books I have wanted to read for sometime now. When the opportunity came to review her latest release, Heated, I took the leap. This is the first book in her Burned Inc series and it delivered a passionate, funny, engaging opposites attract and fake relationship romance. The couple featured in Heated met under unique circumstances. A romance between them would be a conflict of interest on the heroine's part, but the heart wants what it wants. Soon she finds herself in a tricky situation, which will without a doubt blow up in her face.

I like the idea of a business that provides breakup services for their clients. Saves one from the messiness that comes with a breakup. Burned (Breaking Up, Reversing Nuptials & Evading Disasters) Inc operated by the heroine in partnership with her siblings provides this type of service. The idea for this business came about from growing up with parents who were in a toxic relationship. Of the three siblings, Zora is the peacemaker, which makes her perfect for carrying out her client’s needs.

Her latest assignment has her doing a breakup with the most gorgeous man she has ever seen. The situation became more complicated when he asks her to pretend to be his girlfriend for a work retreat. She should say no, he being her client’s ex, but her attraction to Cyrus had her going against her better judgement and soon she is caught up in a messy web of deceit.

Despite the differences in their social status, Cyrus and Zora they shared similarities in relation to vulnerabilities, insecurities and the need for acceptance. They were both strong and driven individuals who strove for excellence. The story portrayed Zora as a strong black woman comfortable with her size, but there were time when her insecurities regarding same would pop up.  This usually happens during her interactions with Cyrus.

I loved how the story was delivered from the alternate POVs as I got to see the perspectives of the main characters. Also, their humorous and risqué internal dialogue enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Phoenix McKay and Jeremy York narrated, and they delivered solid characters. I have listened to both narrators before, but this is the first time listening to them together. They complimented each other perfectly.

Overall, I had a good time with Heated, which delivered a smart, entertaining, and sexy story and a great start to this series. This is my first time reading Naima Simone’s work and I wouldn’t hesitate to read her again.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading