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River Street Bar #1
Fireball
He’s infuriating…
Dempsey Jones has been a nuisance my entire life, the straight-laced Boy Scout grown up to be a firefighter, of all things. He was the one helping kittens out of trees and old ladies cross the road while I was lighting cherry bombs with my best friend in abandoned buildings, and now that we’re all grown up—even if my Dad doesn’t agree—he’s still just as annoying.
She’s impossible…
Taite Ridley has been a constant my whole life, the curly haired mischievous daughter of the police chief, charming and devious and alluring. She was wild in ways I never dared to be and too big for our little town. But she’s here, a small town cop, and I can’t avoid her, even if I wanted to.
And I don’t want to.
It’s like mixing fire and gasoline and when these two collide, someone is gonna get burned…
Dempsey Jones has been a nuisance my entire life, the straight-laced Boy Scout grown up to be a firefighter, of all things. He was the one helping kittens out of trees and old ladies cross the road while I was lighting cherry bombs with my best friend in abandoned buildings, and now that we’re all grown up—even if my Dad doesn’t agree—he’s still just as annoying.
She’s impossible…
Taite Ridley has been a constant my whole life, the curly haired mischievous daughter of the police chief, charming and devious and alluring. She was wild in ways I never dared to be and too big for our little town. But she’s here, a small town cop, and I can’t avoid her, even if I wanted to.
And I don’t want to.
It’s like mixing fire and gasoline and when these two collide, someone is gonna get burned…
- GenresRomanceContemporary
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 5, 2018
About the author
Nazarea Andrews
44 books427 followersNazarea Andrews is an avid reader and tends to write the stories she wants to read. She loves chocolate and coffee almost as much as she loves books, but not quite as much as she loves her kids. She lives in south Georgia with her husband, daughters, and overgrown dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
May 5, 2018
Where is that fence? I need to sit on it for a while and think about this book. 3, 4 or 5 stars. Not an easy feat.
After a shitty night’s sleep my feels on this aren’t much better. I’m going with 3 stars here.
The Characters & The Chemistry
Taite is the heroine of the book and the mascot of the police department and the Chief’s daughter is now a police officer herself and one of River City’s finest.
I really don’t know how to feel about Taite, I went from liking her at the beginning, to loathing her, to hating her for the way she treated Dempsey. No matter her reasons for why she was a complete b-tch.
I found at times Taite to be immature, childish and a brat and at times as a police officer I couldn’t take her seriously. As a grown arse woman she acted as if she was still in high school.
By the end of the book we had come to an agreement that I tolerated her.
Taite’s sexual sexcapades over the years where mentioned a lot, she is an equal opportunities gal. Very promiscuous which is refreshing in a book.
Dempsey is the captain of the fire department and has been in love with Taite for the past twenty years. I felt really over protective of Dempsey and didn’t get his infatuation with Taite. However much I hate to say this but Dempsey is a doormat Hero. Role reversal interesting.
Taite & Dempsey have been having hate sex for the past two years. Taite has always taken their rivalry to a whole new level. Admittedly they did have chemistry but every time they were getting somewhere and Taite was doing something for the relationship she would pull back. IMO so very frustrating.
There are some good secondary characters here and hopefully they will get their own books. Lola & Tiny are a must. I would love to Charlie get her own book as well. They added some depths and layers to the book.
The Writing & Plot.
Each year River City’s police and fire department host fundraisers to support the town. The fire department has lost six years in a row but things are about to change. The loser gets auctioned off at the Mayor’s Gala. I loved the idea of this plot. It was fun to read about and the writing is solid there could have been more depth to the characters they didn’t talk about how they were feeling which could have saved me a lot of aggravation. All they had to do was communicate.
I was thrown for a loop with what happened to Dempsey at school.
The Verdict.
Due to my OCD tendencies I signed up and received an ARC for the second book Rusty Nailed and I can’t just go to book 2 of the series. After finishing book 1 I can say that this is a good, solid start to the series that I enjoyed. There is a lot of potential here and I look forward to reading the next one.
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March 11, 2018This review was originally posted on As Told By TinaI received this book for free from InkSlinger PR in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
March 13, 2018
I received an e-ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. Review and blog tour can be found on *Milky Way of Books*
Dempsey and Taite's story was one scorching tale of humor and swoon-worthy moments! I like how they banter and have this antagonism going on and I also liked how despite their rough exterior both of them were very wounded and needed someone to understand them.
Leaving out the 'friends-with-benefits' trope, Dempsey is truly in love with Taite but she doesn't know. And despite their difficult circumstances, there is a great cast of supporting characters in this story, and I enjoyed the rivalry between the police and fire departments alongside Taite and Dempsey's journey.
Dempsey and Taite's story was one scorching tale of humor and swoon-worthy moments! I like how they banter and have this antagonism going on and I also liked how despite their rough exterior both of them were very wounded and needed someone to understand them.
Leaving out the 'friends-with-benefits' trope, Dempsey is truly in love with Taite but she doesn't know. And despite their difficult circumstances, there is a great cast of supporting characters in this story, and I enjoyed the rivalry between the police and fire departments alongside Taite and Dempsey's journey.
March 17, 2018
You all know by now I'm a huge Nazarea Andrew's fan so it will come as no surprise that I devoured her latest release as soon as it hit my kindle! Fireball was such a fun and sexy and easy read, and I'm really excited to see this series continue.
Tatie was a really great character, she was funny and kinda cocky, and 100% a strong and kick ass woman. Dempsey was all kinds of swoon-worthy and adorable, while at the same time being very very sexy!! The chemistry between these two was off the charts and I loved their rivalry and banter, it sure made for entertaining reading!
As with all the best books, not everything is smooth running. We are hit with some drama and unexpected revelations which leave you pausing for thought. I thought these were really great additions to the story and gave us the chance to see a different side to both Taite and Dempsey.
Nazarea Andrews has been a constant on my bookshelf and my TBR for years, and I don't see that changing any time soon. Fireball is definitely worth a one-click!
Tatie was a really great character, she was funny and kinda cocky, and 100% a strong and kick ass woman. Dempsey was all kinds of swoon-worthy and adorable, while at the same time being very very sexy!! The chemistry between these two was off the charts and I loved their rivalry and banter, it sure made for entertaining reading!
As with all the best books, not everything is smooth running. We are hit with some drama and unexpected revelations which leave you pausing for thought. I thought these were really great additions to the story and gave us the chance to see a different side to both Taite and Dempsey.
Nazarea Andrews has been a constant on my bookshelf and my TBR for years, and I don't see that changing any time soon. Fireball is definitely worth a one-click!
May 14, 2018
I think when you read as many books as I do that you always hope to be surprised, delighted, swept away, but so frequently are. Within a few pages, I knew that Fireball by Nazarea Andrews was going to be one of those very seldom books.
Because I practically speed-read this novel and it’s actually very late (or early, depending on your perspective), I am approaching this review somewhat differently than I normally would.
The very first word I’d use to describe this novel is affection. I felt like Andrews loved these characters. I felt like these characters loved each other. This is a quality that I find so frequently missing in so much of the current romance writing. There was teasing. There was snark. There was rivalry. There were familial interactions. All of these interactions were underscored by affection. As a reader, this just makes an incredible difference. It makes me smile. It makes me turn the pages and look forward to every scene. It enhanced the steamy scenes for me to the nth degree. Ultimately I loved these characters.
Which is a perfect segue to: characterization. Andrews breathed life into these characters. She tossed out bits of information so cleverly so that you were discovering Taite and Dempsey along the way, as well as their vibrant set of family and friends. Taite and Dempsey felt like flesh and blood people with all of their insecurities and flaws and gifts.
At the very beginning, thinking that I knew what was going to happen, she turned that expectation on its ear and threw in a curveball, an oh-so-satisfying curveball.
Fireball is steamy, fun, sad, affectionate, and most of all wonderfully entertaining and I am looking forward to more in this series. This is book #1 in the River Street Bar series.
If you like first responder romances that are sexy, funny, warm, serious, different (amongst so many other things), read this book!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Because I practically speed-read this novel and it’s actually very late (or early, depending on your perspective), I am approaching this review somewhat differently than I normally would.
The very first word I’d use to describe this novel is affection. I felt like Andrews loved these characters. I felt like these characters loved each other. This is a quality that I find so frequently missing in so much of the current romance writing. There was teasing. There was snark. There was rivalry. There were familial interactions. All of these interactions were underscored by affection. As a reader, this just makes an incredible difference. It makes me smile. It makes me turn the pages and look forward to every scene. It enhanced the steamy scenes for me to the nth degree. Ultimately I loved these characters.
Which is a perfect segue to: characterization. Andrews breathed life into these characters. She tossed out bits of information so cleverly so that you were discovering Taite and Dempsey along the way, as well as their vibrant set of family and friends. Taite and Dempsey felt like flesh and blood people with all of their insecurities and flaws and gifts.
At the very beginning, thinking that I knew what was going to happen, she turned that expectation on its ear and threw in a curveball, an oh-so-satisfying curveball.
Fireball is steamy, fun, sad, affectionate, and most of all wonderfully entertaining and I am looking forward to more in this series. This is book #1 in the River Street Bar series.
If you like first responder romances that are sexy, funny, warm, serious, different (amongst so many other things), read this book!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2018
A decent read. I had not read anything by this author before so I didn’t really know what to except. This is a new series for her, so I’m hoping the next book will be even better.
I think most people will enjoy this book. It has an unusual story line and wraps up with a HEA while alluding to more things to come.
The multitude of characters threw me off for a while. That is probably my biggest complaint is that there are so many characters that it is hard to keep track, especially when you use multiple names for the same one..
I think most people will enjoy this book. It has an unusual story line and wraps up with a HEA while alluding to more things to come.
The multitude of characters threw me off for a while. That is probably my biggest complaint is that there are so many characters that it is hard to keep track, especially when you use multiple names for the same one..
March 10, 2018
Taite and Dempsey used to be friends as kids. As the daughter of the police chief and the son of the mayor, they naturally found themselves pushed together by circumstance and they were inseparable for a while. But over the years they grew apart, particularly after Taite's new best friend Miguel moved to town, and now they snipe and snarl at each other at every given opportunity. Since Dempsey is a captain in the town's fire department and Taite is an officer on the police force, they have plenty of opportunities!
What most don't know is that the sniping and snarling is really just a bit of foreplay for them, and for the past two years Taite and Dempsey have been indulging in a bit of hate sex/ frenemies with benefits relationship. Taite doesn't realize that Dempsey never really hated her and actually would give anything for her to give him a chance at a real relationship, but he will never tell her that. They both have been left a bit damaged by events in their lives. Between the unexpected death of Taite's mom when she wasn't even a teenager and the death of Dempsey's dad when he wasn't much older than Taite, they reacted in a different ways but they still share an understanding that runs deep despite their prickly current relationship. Taite basically closed herself off to the possibility of loving someone enough to feel the pain and loss that her dad suffered when her mom died, and she keeps almost everyone at arms length because of it.
It took me a bit to warm up to Taite because she throws some serious attitude to reinforce the walls she has built! She will just barely admit to herself that she wouldn't mind a bit more with Dempsey but she is not wired to put herself out there like that. Every time he starts to hint that he wants a real chance, she panics and runs in the opposite direction for a few days until Miguel and even her father start to call her out for it. Dempsey is normally a strong and confident guy, but she brings out his vulnerable side and his friends worry that she is going to rip his heart to shreds. When a very unwanted blast from Dempsey's past shows up in town, it may just be the catalyst Taite needs to finally man up and face her feelings.
This is the first book I have read from this author, and I will be back for more in the series when it is available! There is a great cast of supporting characters in this story, and I enjoyed the rivalry between the police and fire departments as it played out alongside Taite and Dempsey's journey. I felt for Dempsey when his past was revealed and I thought the author did a great job infusing the right mix of vulnerability and strength in him. All in all, this was an enjoyable read and I am looking forward to seeing who gets their turn in the spotlight next!
What most don't know is that the sniping and snarling is really just a bit of foreplay for them, and for the past two years Taite and Dempsey have been indulging in a bit of hate sex/ frenemies with benefits relationship. Taite doesn't realize that Dempsey never really hated her and actually would give anything for her to give him a chance at a real relationship, but he will never tell her that. They both have been left a bit damaged by events in their lives. Between the unexpected death of Taite's mom when she wasn't even a teenager and the death of Dempsey's dad when he wasn't much older than Taite, they reacted in a different ways but they still share an understanding that runs deep despite their prickly current relationship. Taite basically closed herself off to the possibility of loving someone enough to feel the pain and loss that her dad suffered when her mom died, and she keeps almost everyone at arms length because of it.
It took me a bit to warm up to Taite because she throws some serious attitude to reinforce the walls she has built! She will just barely admit to herself that she wouldn't mind a bit more with Dempsey but she is not wired to put herself out there like that. Every time he starts to hint that he wants a real chance, she panics and runs in the opposite direction for a few days until Miguel and even her father start to call her out for it. Dempsey is normally a strong and confident guy, but she brings out his vulnerable side and his friends worry that she is going to rip his heart to shreds. When a very unwanted blast from Dempsey's past shows up in town, it may just be the catalyst Taite needs to finally man up and face her feelings.
This is the first book I have read from this author, and I will be back for more in the series when it is available! There is a great cast of supporting characters in this story, and I enjoyed the rivalry between the police and fire departments as it played out alongside Taite and Dempsey's journey. I felt for Dempsey when his past was revealed and I thought the author did a great job infusing the right mix of vulnerability and strength in him. All in all, this was an enjoyable read and I am looking forward to seeing who gets their turn in the spotlight next!
March 9, 2018
I love when a book surprises me, and boy this book surprised me. From the very first scene, I knew I was going to love Taite!
Taite is a police officer and daughter of the police chief in her small town. Finding out more about her, I wouldn’t have thought she would be a police officer, but she is. She is a good one! Dempsey is a firefighter and paramedic. He is good at his job too! They have known each other their entire lives and were friends briefly. As time passed, they could barely tolerate one another. Now, they really only enjoy each other’s company when they are hooking up and then later return back to hating each other. You know what they say about hate and love; they are closely related. Change is in the air, and Dempsey is tired of hiding his true feelings for her, but he will have to pull out all the stops to make Taite his.
Taite is one of those characters you won’t forget. She is sassy and doesn’t take guff from anyone, and especially Dempsey. Growing up, she was rebellious, not always making the best decisions. She is wild and passionate. She is all for hook-ups, especially with Dempsey when they argue so much that they sneak away to blow off steam. She doesn’t do relationships. They scare her because of the power they have to destroy an individual. She has erected some huge walls underneath that sassy exterior. Dempsey is doing his best to break them down.
Dempsey has always loved Taite even when she annoyed the crap out of him. He is the opposite of her. He was always the good kid, the star athlete, the valedictorian. Taite describes him as the perfect boy scout, and she is right. He is fiercely loyal and protective of those he loves. He brings Taite some stability, and she brings him a little bit of wildness. These two are soulmates even if Taite fights it every step of the way. Their romance was both steamy and sweet.
Andrews gave her readers a twist I didn’t see coming. It brought out a whole other side to Taite. Without giving any spoilers away, it is something we are seeing more and more on the news. At times, those parts were hard to read. At the same time, it also illustrated that our pasts don’t have to define us.'
Not only did Andrews create a great love story between a couple, but it was a love story of friendship and community. I didn’t realize that until Dempsey’s past comes roaring into his present. His entire group of friends and Taite’s friends rallied around him. I loved the very descriptive writing of Andrews. I could see the town and the bar! I felt like I was a part of the community. I can’t wait to return when Book 2 releases.
***Read and Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
Taite is a police officer and daughter of the police chief in her small town. Finding out more about her, I wouldn’t have thought she would be a police officer, but she is. She is a good one! Dempsey is a firefighter and paramedic. He is good at his job too! They have known each other their entire lives and were friends briefly. As time passed, they could barely tolerate one another. Now, they really only enjoy each other’s company when they are hooking up and then later return back to hating each other. You know what they say about hate and love; they are closely related. Change is in the air, and Dempsey is tired of hiding his true feelings for her, but he will have to pull out all the stops to make Taite his.
Taite is one of those characters you won’t forget. She is sassy and doesn’t take guff from anyone, and especially Dempsey. Growing up, she was rebellious, not always making the best decisions. She is wild and passionate. She is all for hook-ups, especially with Dempsey when they argue so much that they sneak away to blow off steam. She doesn’t do relationships. They scare her because of the power they have to destroy an individual. She has erected some huge walls underneath that sassy exterior. Dempsey is doing his best to break them down.
Dempsey has always loved Taite even when she annoyed the crap out of him. He is the opposite of her. He was always the good kid, the star athlete, the valedictorian. Taite describes him as the perfect boy scout, and she is right. He is fiercely loyal and protective of those he loves. He brings Taite some stability, and she brings him a little bit of wildness. These two are soulmates even if Taite fights it every step of the way. Their romance was both steamy and sweet.
Andrews gave her readers a twist I didn’t see coming. It brought out a whole other side to Taite. Without giving any spoilers away, it is something we are seeing more and more on the news. At times, those parts were hard to read. At the same time, it also illustrated that our pasts don’t have to define us.'
Not only did Andrews create a great love story between a couple, but it was a love story of friendship and community. I didn’t realize that until Dempsey’s past comes roaring into his present. His entire group of friends and Taite’s friends rallied around him. I loved the very descriptive writing of Andrews. I could see the town and the bar! I felt like I was a part of the community. I can’t wait to return when Book 2 releases.
***Read and Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
March 13, 2018
I definitely wasn't sure about this book going into the story. The heroine Taite got on my nerves with her hot and cold attitude. I wondered if she was just using Dempsey. I think they bother were probably using each other at first. As I kept reading I really got into the story and found myself caring about the characters. I think what really sold me on this story is that it is kind of like Grey's Anatomy meets small town. Instead of the story being about doctors it is about first responders.
Taite is a police officer and Dempsey is a firefighter. Taite's dad is the police chief and Dempsey's mom is the town mayor. Taite and Dempsey have grown up together. They have basically known each other all their lives but there is animosity between them but not enough that they can't find time for hate sex. Taite doesn't want a relationship and I don't think Dempsey is truly ready at the beginning of the story. Why? Because, they are dealing with their pasts. Boy do these two characters have a past. Both of them lost a parent to a car accident. One them is dealing with a stalker from their high school days. There is so much drama in this story but I found myself addicted because I liked how the drama was handled. I liked the discussions on the double standards boys/men face when they are the victims of harassment by women. Dempsey was taken advantage of by a teacher in high school and was the victim of statutory abuse. Everyone treats him like he should be grateful the hot teacher wanted him. Women can rape men and I thought this topic was important and it is rarely brought up.
By the end, I was warming up to the heroine because I liked that she didn't make Dempsey feel like less of man for his trauma as a teenager. I understood she was a broken character too especially after finding out about her mother. In the end, even with the drama and hard hitting topics I liked that Fireball is a story about two people taking a chance on love. Are all their issues resolved by the end of this book? No. Because, magic sex doesn't exist and it not going to cure all of the mental issues the characters are dealing with in 350 pages or less. I liked this book because it while a bit overly dramatic it still felt real. Taite and Dempsey still have issues to deal with but now they have each other. Only you can deal with your emotional scars but it sure does make it easier with a partner holding your hand along the way.
Taite is a police officer and Dempsey is a firefighter. Taite's dad is the police chief and Dempsey's mom is the town mayor. Taite and Dempsey have grown up together. They have basically known each other all their lives but there is animosity between them but not enough that they can't find time for hate sex. Taite doesn't want a relationship and I don't think Dempsey is truly ready at the beginning of the story. Why? Because, they are dealing with their pasts. Boy do these two characters have a past. Both of them lost a parent to a car accident. One them is dealing with a stalker from their high school days. There is so much drama in this story but I found myself addicted because I liked how the drama was handled. I liked the discussions on the double standards boys/men face when they are the victims of harassment by women. Dempsey was taken advantage of by a teacher in high school and was the victim of statutory abuse. Everyone treats him like he should be grateful the hot teacher wanted him. Women can rape men and I thought this topic was important and it is rarely brought up.
By the end, I was warming up to the heroine because I liked that she didn't make Dempsey feel like less of man for his trauma as a teenager. I understood she was a broken character too especially after finding out about her mother. In the end, even with the drama and hard hitting topics I liked that Fireball is a story about two people taking a chance on love. Are all their issues resolved by the end of this book? No. Because, magic sex doesn't exist and it not going to cure all of the mental issues the characters are dealing with in 350 pages or less. I liked this book because it while a bit overly dramatic it still felt real. Taite and Dempsey still have issues to deal with but now they have each other. Only you can deal with your emotional scars but it sure does make it easier with a partner holding your hand along the way.
March 10, 2018
FIREBALL is book one in the River Street Bar series and is actually my first read by author Nazarea Andrews! This is a contemporary standalone with a small town vibe.
Taite is the daughter of the town's police chief and a cop herself. Dempsey is the son of the mayor and a firefighter/paramedic (swoon worthy in itself!). When the police department and the fire department go head-to-head in a competition to raise money for the town, Dempsey and Taite find there's more at stake then who will be the victor!
These two have known each other their whole lives and have been on this crazy circle of friends to enemies to friends...with benefits! Ever heard the saying, "a thin line between love and hate?" Yeah, Taite and Dempsey are really riding that line! I loved the banter between them, it was funny, snarky, sassy but also sometimes sweet. They spent half the book snarling at each other and the other half trying to keep their hands off each other (wink, wink)!
Other than the competition the town's in and a few scenes here and there, there's not a whole lot of over the top drama. This story is mostly a fun, sweet (but not TOO sweet) romance...just two people trying to overcome their fears and learning to trust in LOVE! There's also a ton of secondary characters which are all cool and add to the storyline but which made it a bit confusing at times.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Told from dual POVs with a happy ending. I received, read and voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Taite is the daughter of the town's police chief and a cop herself. Dempsey is the son of the mayor and a firefighter/paramedic (swoon worthy in itself!). When the police department and the fire department go head-to-head in a competition to raise money for the town, Dempsey and Taite find there's more at stake then who will be the victor!
These two have known each other their whole lives and have been on this crazy circle of friends to enemies to friends...with benefits! Ever heard the saying, "a thin line between love and hate?" Yeah, Taite and Dempsey are really riding that line! I loved the banter between them, it was funny, snarky, sassy but also sometimes sweet. They spent half the book snarling at each other and the other half trying to keep their hands off each other (wink, wink)!
Other than the competition the town's in and a few scenes here and there, there's not a whole lot of over the top drama. This story is mostly a fun, sweet (but not TOO sweet) romance...just two people trying to overcome their fears and learning to trust in LOVE! There's also a ton of secondary characters which are all cool and add to the storyline but which made it a bit confusing at times.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Told from dual POVs with a happy ending. I received, read and voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
March 14, 2018
Taite and Dempsey have a strange hate with benefits relationship. Dempsey is the fire captain and Taite is the police chief’s daughter. Being 1st responders requires that they work closely together. They feel this pull between them and channel that anger and emotion the only way they know how. When the past comes back to haunt Dempsey, will he succumb to the lies or will Taite help him see the light?
This book was an okay read for me. I wanted to really like it, but there were several things that were very confusing that made my rating lower.
1- The scene transitions – I felt like the scene would just end and they next thing I knew several days or weeks had passed. I had to flip back and forth several times to double check that I hadn’t skipped pages.
2- The secondary characters- There were so many of them that it was hard to keep track. Some of them were never even introduced. It was almost as if this were the 3rd or 4th book in a series and those characters were introduced in previous books.
3- The death of Taite’s mom- In one scene, it implies that Taite’s mom died a certain way and then later in the book it says she dies from a different cause.
4- The characters’ chemistry- I just wasn’t feeling it. The story went from them hating each other to them being tolerable with each other. I never felt that they truly had that once in a lifetime love.
-An ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review.-
This book was an okay read for me. I wanted to really like it, but there were several things that were very confusing that made my rating lower.
1- The scene transitions – I felt like the scene would just end and they next thing I knew several days or weeks had passed. I had to flip back and forth several times to double check that I hadn’t skipped pages.
2- The secondary characters- There were so many of them that it was hard to keep track. Some of them were never even introduced. It was almost as if this were the 3rd or 4th book in a series and those characters were introduced in previous books.
3- The death of Taite’s mom- In one scene, it implies that Taite’s mom died a certain way and then later in the book it says she dies from a different cause.
4- The characters’ chemistry- I just wasn’t feeling it. The story went from them hating each other to them being tolerable with each other. I never felt that they truly had that once in a lifetime love.
-An ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review.-
May 7, 2018
Find this review and more at Ramblings From This Chick
Fireball is the first book in the new River Street Bar Series from Nazarea Andrews. I have been a big fan of Nazarea's for quite awhile now, and this book was a great read, just like I have come to expect from her. I enjoyed it from start to finish, and I think readers are going to like this one a lot.
Dempsey and Taite have known each other since they were kids, and while he was the straight-laced do-gooder, she was always the mischievous one. He is now a firefighter and she is a police officer, so their paths cross often. But while to the world they appear to do nothing but fight, in private things are a bit of a different story.
I really liked these two. At first I admit I was unsure of Taite and if I would like her. But she quickly won me over and I knew these two were meant for each other. I enjoyed the sparks flying between them and the banter was great foreplay. They had a ton of chemistry and a lot of history, and despite their differences they made total sense.
Overall, this was a great story and I was drawn in right away. I think this is a great start to this new series and I am really looking forward to seeing where Nazarea Andrews takes it next. I have become a huge fan of hers over the years with her unique and relatable characters and well written stories and Fireball was everything I love about her books and more.
**ARC Provided by Inkslinger PR**
Fireball is the first book in the new River Street Bar Series from Nazarea Andrews. I have been a big fan of Nazarea's for quite awhile now, and this book was a great read, just like I have come to expect from her. I enjoyed it from start to finish, and I think readers are going to like this one a lot.
Dempsey and Taite have known each other since they were kids, and while he was the straight-laced do-gooder, she was always the mischievous one. He is now a firefighter and she is a police officer, so their paths cross often. But while to the world they appear to do nothing but fight, in private things are a bit of a different story.
I really liked these two. At first I admit I was unsure of Taite and if I would like her. But she quickly won me over and I knew these two were meant for each other. I enjoyed the sparks flying between them and the banter was great foreplay. They had a ton of chemistry and a lot of history, and despite their differences they made total sense.
Overall, this was a great story and I was drawn in right away. I think this is a great start to this new series and I am really looking forward to seeing where Nazarea Andrews takes it next. I have become a huge fan of hers over the years with her unique and relatable characters and well written stories and Fireball was everything I love about her books and more.
**ARC Provided by Inkslinger PR**
March 7, 2018
I'm an Emergency Dispatcher, and work with Law Enforcement, Fire and EMS day in and day out, so I'm partial to books that involve these elements. However, that also means I'm known to be more critical of those same books, because I know what goes into those careers. That being said, this book was amazing! The characters were interesting, the story line fun, and the whole PD/FD rivalry was hilarious. I can totally see my FD and PD guys getting involved in something like that!
Taite is the daughter of the chief of police, in a small town. She also happens to be a police officer on that same department. Dempsey is a captain on the fire department in the same small town. They grew up together, and have always had some pretty caustic interactions. They love to hate each other. The back and forth between the two had me laughing so hard I was brought to tears right from the beginning of the book. Those same heated interactions made for some steamy chemistry between the two! Oh, boy, this book is HOT!
There are some scenes that were tough to get through, and brought out a few tears, but for the most part, this is a fun read, and because of the characters, hit pretty close to home for me. This book was very unpredictable, and for the most part, I had no clue what was coming next. This is an awesome read for anyone who enjoys books about FD or PD, or for anyone who is looking for something that will keep them laughing! Definitely one I'd recommend!
Taite is the daughter of the chief of police, in a small town. She also happens to be a police officer on that same department. Dempsey is a captain on the fire department in the same small town. They grew up together, and have always had some pretty caustic interactions. They love to hate each other. The back and forth between the two had me laughing so hard I was brought to tears right from the beginning of the book. Those same heated interactions made for some steamy chemistry between the two! Oh, boy, this book is HOT!
There are some scenes that were tough to get through, and brought out a few tears, but for the most part, this is a fun read, and because of the characters, hit pretty close to home for me. This book was very unpredictable, and for the most part, I had no clue what was coming next. This is an awesome read for anyone who enjoys books about FD or PD, or for anyone who is looking for something that will keep them laughing! Definitely one I'd recommend!
March 15, 2018
Taite Ridley’s day isn’t off to the best start. Our author surprises me with this character and I’ll let you enjoy that yourself – it’s a reminder not to make assumptions. Dempsey Jones thinks he’s got game. And you know that things are going to get interesting from there. Be prepared to chuckle because you just never know what’s going to come next.
I know this is tagged as friend to lovers but in getting to know these two at the beginning I wouldn’t say they were friends. Maybe frenemies would be a better description. There’s no way that you’ll ever guess where this author is going to take you. You may have a feeling but you won’t have any idea how each scene is going to play out.
It’s a great story to reminisce with. Whether what you did with your parents, what you did with your high school sweetheart or the memories you’re making with your current sweetie. But trying to figure out our main characters can be a little frustrating. Taite is just so confusing – your brain starts going in one direction but then Taite does something to bring you to a halt and going “ok where are we going from here”. This is why you have to let the author lead this dance. Dempsey isn’t quite as bad but you want to ask him “why are you wasting your time”. But then the author lets you know that it’s not a waste because you want to keep reading and see all the roadblocks she can come up with. I don’t feel that we get an ending – it’s more of a tease. One, because you don’t have a definitive answer about Taite and Dempsey and two, because the only thing you know about the second book is the title and approximately when it will be coming out.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
I know this is tagged as friend to lovers but in getting to know these two at the beginning I wouldn’t say they were friends. Maybe frenemies would be a better description. There’s no way that you’ll ever guess where this author is going to take you. You may have a feeling but you won’t have any idea how each scene is going to play out.
It’s a great story to reminisce with. Whether what you did with your parents, what you did with your high school sweetheart or the memories you’re making with your current sweetie. But trying to figure out our main characters can be a little frustrating. Taite is just so confusing – your brain starts going in one direction but then Taite does something to bring you to a halt and going “ok where are we going from here”. This is why you have to let the author lead this dance. Dempsey isn’t quite as bad but you want to ask him “why are you wasting your time”. But then the author lets you know that it’s not a waste because you want to keep reading and see all the roadblocks she can come up with. I don’t feel that we get an ending – it’s more of a tease. One, because you don’t have a definitive answer about Taite and Dempsey and two, because the only thing you know about the second book is the title and approximately when it will be coming out.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
March 10, 2018
This is the first book in this new series and I am completely hooked already. Nazarea has brought us a brilliant cast of characters, a gripping storyline, beautiful raw emotion mixed in with humour and intense red-hot chemistry. The main characters were so real, had real emotions and vulnerabilities.
Taite is quite a strong, sassy character, she only has a few people she keeps close and lets in. She’s been sparring with Dempsey. They have such a high sexual tension between them, its obvious they have strong feelings for each other, but fear keeps them from admitting it to each other. Dempsey has always been the star of the town, the star athlete and all round good guy. He is the calm to Taite’s storm.
I am eagerly awaiting the next instalment in this series Rusty Nail to see what happens in this series next.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review from the author and Inkslinger
https://ilovebookreviewscom.wordpress...
Taite is quite a strong, sassy character, she only has a few people she keeps close and lets in. She’s been sparring with Dempsey. They have such a high sexual tension between them, its obvious they have strong feelings for each other, but fear keeps them from admitting it to each other. Dempsey has always been the star of the town, the star athlete and all round good guy. He is the calm to Taite’s storm.
I am eagerly awaiting the next instalment in this series Rusty Nail to see what happens in this series next.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review from the author and Inkslinger
https://ilovebookreviewscom.wordpress...
March 11, 2018
Taite and Dempsey have known each other since they were children. Been friends and enemies alike. The new dynamic between them has been leaving them both unsettled.
Dempsey wants to try for a future with Taite. He knows that the animosity she shows toward him and the fire department is part of the job. Behind closed doors, there are secrets that may get out. Sooner or later someone in their small town will know.
This was such a great story. Kind of a slow burn, (pun not intended - but I'll take it.) These characters are such a great balance for one another. They have a lot in common, they both have this electric attraction with such intense heat. It seemed like it was a only a matter of time for this compelling story to find them on the same page.
***This early copy was given in exchange for an honest review only.
Dempsey wants to try for a future with Taite. He knows that the animosity she shows toward him and the fire department is part of the job. Behind closed doors, there are secrets that may get out. Sooner or later someone in their small town will know.
This was such a great story. Kind of a slow burn, (pun not intended - but I'll take it.) These characters are such a great balance for one another. They have a lot in common, they both have this electric attraction with such intense heat. It seemed like it was a only a matter of time for this compelling story to find them on the same page.
***This early copy was given in exchange for an honest review only.
March 7, 2018
Fireball (River Street Bar Book 1) by Nazarea Andrews
Dempsey and Taite don't know how to be subtle. There is no love lost between the town bad girl and the resident goody two shoes. He irks her and she gets him all hot and bothered. There will be blood. Hearts are racing. Sparks are flying. Danger is up ahead. Will they fight to the death or finally give in to their heart's desires. Fireball is an explosively, spicy curve ball of a read that keeps readers on their toes the whole way through.
Dempsey and Taite don't know how to be subtle. There is no love lost between the town bad girl and the resident goody two shoes. He irks her and she gets him all hot and bothered. There will be blood. Hearts are racing. Sparks are flying. Danger is up ahead. Will they fight to the death or finally give in to their heart's desires. Fireball is an explosively, spicy curve ball of a read that keeps readers on their toes the whole way through.
March 11, 2018
This is a fun, small town romance with all the angst & rivalry that come along with this trope. There is heat, too, but it's sweet at the same time.
Taite and Dempsey are both broken; carrying the baggage of their past, and this prevents them from fully admitting and accepting that true love could be in their combined future. The entire town knows how they feel about each other, but will they be brave enough to reach out and grab a chance at happiness?
This is a great start to the series, and I look forward to the rest of the stories.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book.
Taite and Dempsey are both broken; carrying the baggage of their past, and this prevents them from fully admitting and accepting that true love could be in their combined future. The entire town knows how they feel about each other, but will they be brave enough to reach out and grab a chance at happiness?
This is a great start to the series, and I look forward to the rest of the stories.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book.
March 25, 2018
Nazarea Andrews is starting off a new series that is intriguing, hot and sexy in every way. We have a police and fire department battling for more than just who can raise the most money but a chance of love. Taite and Dempsey are more than just oil and water they sizzle every time together in a way that is hotter than ever. Nazarea Andrews started in a hot way with these two and cannot wait who is next in this series.
"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."
"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."
March 9, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Dempsey and Taite’s story. I love their love hate relationship. The chemistry between the two is intense. Fireball took me on an emotional rollercoaster. They story kept me on my toes and wanting more. I enjoyed the characters and the storyline. I highly recommend and cannot wait to read more in the series.
March 11, 2018
Dnf - 15%. I felt like I was lost in a book where I should have known who everyone was. There were a lot of characters introduced up front, so it was difficult keeping track. I also was thrown to find out that the hero and heroine were already sleeping together. There was no build up - just, bam! Sex scene. Maybe there’s a great love story in there, so I might come back to this later.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2018
I loved Dempsey and Taite...both stubborn and both with secrets and pasts heartbreak they can't seem to shake!
I loved their banter and I loved how they fought but neither of them could deny the chemistry and their history!
They drove me half mad lol with their pushing and pulling but it fits the story perfectly!
I really really hope for their best friends' stories!
I loved their banter and I loved how they fought but neither of them could deny the chemistry and their history!
They drove me half mad lol with their pushing and pulling but it fits the story perfectly!
I really really hope for their best friends' stories!
March 9, 2018
I thought Fireball was a goof read and a first by the author I just Know i'll be going back and reading more by her . With a really good stoyline with likable characters you can't help to fall for what is going to happen or already happened .
March 11, 2018
My first book by Nazarea, and I really enjoyed it. Dempsey and Taite seem to hate each other, but is the hate actually hiding other emotions.
Taite has many issues, can she get pass them to finally let herself love Dempsey.
Taite has many issues, can she get pass them to finally let herself love Dempsey.
March 22, 2018
Not my favorite
This story had such potential, but didn't quite reach it for me. Taite & Dempsey are great characters, tho. : )
This story had such potential, but didn't quite reach it for me. Taite & Dempsey are great characters, tho. : )
September 1, 2019
I loved this story and the dynamic between Dempsey and Taite. It was laugh out loud funny at times and swoon worthy at others!
March 22, 2023
Perfect
I loved it! Dempsey and Taite are beautiful together. The title of the book is spot on. Cannot wait to read the next book.
I loved it! Dempsey and Taite are beautiful together. The title of the book is spot on. Cannot wait to read the next book.
April 30, 2018
I really enjoyed this book! The characters all had a spine, and they were all sarcastic and likable. The overall storyline of this book definitely dragged me in, and I had a really hard time putting this one down. I loved the romantic element between the Dempsey and Taite, and I loved how they looked out for each other. There was several other great elements to the story that gave it some depth, and I was so happy with this one.
November 16, 2018
I really enjoyed reading Fireball! Fireball is book 1 in the River Street Bar Series.
Taite Ridley is a small town girl. While Taite was away at college all she could think of was going back to her small town, River City. Dempsey Jones also lives in River City. Taite and Dempsey grew up together and they hated each other while in high school. Taite’s father is the Police Chief and Dempsey’s mother is the Mayor. So, you know they can’t not see each other, not only because of their parents but, their jobs as well.
Taite is a cop and Dempsey is a firefighter/paramedic. They are always bound to run into each other and then they end up having “hate sex”. Neither of them seemed able to help themselves from having their hate sex. I love Taite and Dempsey characters! They are easily likable & relatable people.
Fireball is a cute story and there are some LOL moments. I look forward to reading the next book in the River Street Bar Series. Rusty Nail is book 2 and will be out in May. I give 4.5 Stars to Fireball.
Taite Ridley is a small town girl. While Taite was away at college all she could think of was going back to her small town, River City. Dempsey Jones also lives in River City. Taite and Dempsey grew up together and they hated each other while in high school. Taite’s father is the Police Chief and Dempsey’s mother is the Mayor. So, you know they can’t not see each other, not only because of their parents but, their jobs as well.
Taite is a cop and Dempsey is a firefighter/paramedic. They are always bound to run into each other and then they end up having “hate sex”. Neither of them seemed able to help themselves from having their hate sex. I love Taite and Dempsey characters! They are easily likable & relatable people.
Fireball is a cute story and there are some LOL moments. I look forward to reading the next book in the River Street Bar Series. Rusty Nail is book 2 and will be out in May. I give 4.5 Stars to Fireball.
March 8, 2018
WOW!! I loved this book! Taite and Dempsey were just so beautifully imperfect!
This book has all the feels! I laughed, cried, sobbed, got angry and then I was really happy!
This is a great book from an amazing author! LOVED
Merged review:
WOW!! I loved this book! Taite and Dempsey were just so beautifully imperfect!
This book has all the feels! I laughed, cried, sobbed, got angry and then I was really happy!
This is a great book from an amazing author! LOVED
This book has all the feels! I laughed, cried, sobbed, got angry and then I was really happy!
This is a great book from an amazing author! LOVED
Merged review:
WOW!! I loved this book! Taite and Dempsey were just so beautifully imperfect!
This book has all the feels! I laughed, cried, sobbed, got angry and then I was really happy!
This is a great book from an amazing author! LOVED
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