Wow, that was the first word I thought when I read the first couple chapters. There was a lot of action that drove the story really quickly. I thought it was going to take some time to develop both main characters background stories but it was just like boom, things happening. I really liked Aidan since he was introduced as Johnny Kelly’s roommate. He would help him with Johnny’s romance books and would be an awesome cook. Always cooking when he’s anxious. What I never knew was how much like me he was. I am way more comfortable talking to people through a little chat bubble than actually saying things out loud. It’s easier, less judgy. You can be free to be yourself. Words are hard, especially when you have to make a conversation with people. Also I love drawing but like Aidan, a lot of drawings go unfinished. Just like a lot of things for me. I’m thankful I got a bit of his background from his sisters story in Always a Secret which was a promotional novella. It helped understand more about how he grew up, more about the Cracked Spine and Brew. Also about Arya, Max, Ann, Bella, Angelina, Ashlyn, Alaina, their mother. Marlee is divorced and looking to find someone new in her life. Though the label firefighter always made guys turn a blind eye. It spelled out danger and that she was strong, independent, and capable. It’s even harder when your ex-husband works with you. I’ve had a couple ex-boyfriends before that I’ve worked with but we don’t work together anymore. It’s even worse to have someone that you married be around you for the rest of your career. I couldn’t help but love every moment of this book. It all came together perfectly and made me emotional. I was so happy about everything that went on and hope you get a chance to read it as well!. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Marlee is an extrovert, loves her job as a firefighter and planning charity fundraisers, and wants more than anything to be a mom. Aiden is an introverted artist who has a sweet heart and a crush on Marlee. She didn’t really notice him as anything other than her best friend’s younger brother until she asks him to kiss her to escape a bad date and he helps with the graphic art for the fundraiser. But her selfish ex keeps trying to get in the way. I couldn’t believe how he kept trying to manipulate Marlee so she would go back to him and took credit for things Aiden did. I would have brought up his behavior with their chief. There are a lot of ups and downs, some suspenseful moments, and their friends and family have to interfere. But it makes my heart melt even more for Aiden and all he does to support Marlee’s dreams and show how much he cares.