My Reviews - Where There's Smoke by Susan May Warren

5 out of 5 stars

WHERE THERE’S SMOKE is the first book in the smokin’ hot Montana Fire series from Susan May Warren. And believe me, the forest is not the only thing on fire.

Kate Burns was born with the same instincts and dedication to smoke jumping as her father. She is a legend, known to put herself at risk with her whatever it takes mentality. That’s why she can’t let anyone know she’s afraid of fire. After a near-death experience, Kate is struggling with her fears but keeps them to herself. After all, she’s known as Blazin’ Kate Burns, and she refuses to do anything to taint her reputation. But, with the passing of her father, Kate is at odds with her feelings. Going home to clean out his belongings, she knowns she’ll have to come face-to-face with one more confusing, emotional obstacle in her life – Jed Ransom. They have history as explosive as any fire she’s ever fought. Working side-by-side with Jed to train the next team of smoke jumpers is going to force Kate to face her fears: physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

The normally calm and cool, Jed Ransom, has more on his plate than anticipated. As the protégé of Jock Burns-Kate’s father-it’s up to him to train the next set of smoke jumping rookies. When he finds out Kate has been assigned to help him, his feelings vacillate between love and anger. He loves her-always has-but refuses to encourage her in what Jed feels is a recklessness that will one day get Kate killed or those she’s training.

WHERE THERE’S SMOKE is filled with fast-pace action and sizzling chemistry between Kate and Jed. They both love each other, but allow their fears and flaws to drive a deeper wedge between them. Kate has always felt the need to prove she is one of the best in a male-dominated career, but Jed wants her to quit. He wants a future with Kate, but not if she is going to continue to put her life on the line.

WOW! What a captivating story!  Kate and Jed exude passion on the job and with each other. Their interactions are heat-infused and volatile, but only because they love each other so much. Spiritually, they both are struggling with the pain God has allowed to touch their lives. Head strong and determined, they need to decide if they can completely surrender their lives and their future to God. With a supporting cast of intriguing characters, the action never slows it only simmers. Definitely on my favorites list! I can’t wait to read PLAYING WITH FIRE, the next book in the series.