When I was writing this, I could not get Burnin’ Up by the Jonas Brothers out of my head. Why? Because it is a catchy song. Also, because I love the Jonas Brothers; meaning I LOVE the Jonas Brothers. My aunt and I had a fabulous time at their concert in September.
“I’m hot. You’re cold…”
Book Read: Things You Save in a Fire
Author: Katherine Center
Number of Books Read, 2019 Edition: 40
In a follow up to How to Walk Away, Cassie Hanwell, a star firefighter in Texas, is at a crossroads. Her estranged mother has called asking for help in Massachusetts, due to an eyesight problem. At first, Cassie declines. But after a confrontation with a former acquaintance, Cassie heads north.
The new fire house is completely different from the modern fire house in Texas. It doesn’t help that the guys there aren’t as welcoming to a woman firefighter, except the rookie, Owen. Owen is carrying around guilt from a childhood incident, and comes from a line of firefighters. But he isn’t sure fire fighting is his calling, but here he is, with an eye on the other newbie.
As Owen and Cassie navigate their feelings along with the politics at the firehouse, Cassie is also opening up to her mother, who is holding onto a secret of her own. When a fellow firefighter puts them in danger, Cassie must be calm in a heated situation, fighting for love and survival.
Together, they will all learn to open up about the past, be open to the future and find their way.
Is this the best book you’ll ever read? No, not by a long shot. Will it pass the time? Yes. Should this be a Hallmark movie? 100 percent. It meets all the criteria (something or someone from the past, a happy ending, fun neighbors, etc.
Cassie’s character had guts. She is a strong, independent woman who is trying to overcome her past, both with her mother and with an event that changed her forever. Throughout the book, Center writes of a mother-daughter relationship that needs mending. This relationship is one of the best parts of this novel.
The first part of the book was more calm, the second part became more serious. Then towards the end, I found myself groaning out loud at the cliche rom com parts. Because trust me, they were corny. Too corny, in fact.
Overall, Things You Save in a Fire had emotion, growth, love and some fierce ladies. It also had great side characters who added entertainment and depth.
But if you are looking for a not as cringe worthy rom com, check out How to Walk Away by Center. It was a better read.
Next Read: Mrs. Everything by Jennifer Weiner
