Why I love it

Siobhan Jones
BOTM Editorial Team
I guess it’s pretty old hat to introduce a repeat author around here with the promise of an even-better follow-up, but I can’t help it: Things You Save in a Fire is BETTER than Katherine Center’s breakout romance novel of 2018, How to Walk Away.
Cassie Hanwell is a no-bullshit, tough-as-nails firefighter who doesn’t need (or want) a man in her life. When her ailing, estranged mother calls her home to Boston, she is faced with the dual challenges of navigating their rocky relationship (which she’s in no mood to do) and making her mark in a new firehouse, where even the chief is annoyed at the idea of having a woman around. Between trying to fit in and icing mom at home, Cassie’s days are more than filled. Interesting, then, that the other rookie firefighter seems to be worming his way into her heart…
I don’t even know how to explain how much I adored this book, but let’s start with the best thing about it: the main character. Cassie is smart, unapologetic, and great at her job, and watching her make her mark at a firehouse that’s practically muggy with testosterone is as satisfying as it entertaining. This is a story of love, of family, and of learning how to be vulnerable—and trust me, Cassie’s life journey is one you don’t want to miss.