Book Reviews

Book Blurb

Captain Smack
I've too many responsibilities for my firehouse, young daughter, and ailing mother. I can't indulge in some inappropriate crush. Off-limits. Even if Caleb won't leave my thoughts.
I didn't think I'd survive losing my husband.
Or notice another man, ever again.
But I notice him.

Caleb
Despite the accident that left me disfigured, I love my job, especially since I transferred to another firehouse. If only my ex would leave me alone and others wouldn't pity my scarred face, my life would improve.
And, oh yeah. I need to stop pining after my boss.
I might be stalking him...Just a little?
Captain Sean Smack is a total fox. But I have to stop.

Together
They face a wildfire and each other.

 

 

Steamy Dreamy Hearts features firefighters, forced proximity, age gap, opposites attract, forbidden workplace romance, a single dad, and mental health representation. Although part of the Hearts on Fire series, it can stand solo.

Book Review

Written by a new-to-me author, ‘Steamy Dreamy Hearts’ was a delightful, low-angst, sweet and engaging read. The blurb noted it’s part of the Hearts on Fire series, but I’m not sure if it’s specific to this author or a series written by multiple authors? The blurb also makes reference to a forbidden workplace romance, but it the context of the book, that wasn’t really the case. Both characters were upfront about the relationship with their coworkers and took appropriate steps to avoid a supervisor/employee relationship situation.

 

But I’m getting ahead of myself! I really enjoyed this book. I felt both characters were well-rounded and interesting, with neither one dominating the overall plot line. Caleb is dealing with low self-esteem issues after his accident and a poor choice in boyfriends. Sean lost his husband in a car accident and he’s now raising a precocious little girl. The differences attract in this new relationship. 

 

What I greatly appreciated is that the two main characters felt like real people with all the insecurities and hesitations and fears that come with navigating a new relationship. They each had to wrangle with past demons and figure out a way to move forward. And how each character did that totally worked for me. 

 

If I had to find one quibble with the book, it was Sean’s last name “Smack”. I wanted to giggle each time “Captain Smack” or “Smack” was mentioned or inferred on page. It’s not often I bounce off a name, but this was one of them.

 

If you are looking for a low-angst comfort read that involves interesting characters and a solid plot, this would be a good one to check out. I’m looking forward to reading the next book when it comes out. 

 

 

 

DISCLAIMER: Books reviewed on this site were usually provided at no cost by the publisher or author. The first edition of this book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review.

 

Additional Information

Format	ebook
Length	Novella, 176 pages
Heat Level
Publication Date	29-May-2025
Price	$3.99 ebook
Buy Link	https://www.amazon.com/Steamy-Dreamy-Hearts-Skylar-Cates-ebook/dp/B0DQVRTFDP