Today, I’m hosting author Isobel Reed’s latest release Toasted, book one in the Love Burns series, a contemporary romance. Be sure to read my review. And don’t forget to enter the Rafflecopter giveaway.
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Title: Toasted
Series: Love Burns, Book One
Author: Contemporary Romance
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 175 pages
Release Date: May 21, 2024
Publisher: Inkspell Publishing
Welcome to Woodvalley Pines…where hunky firefighters save the day! It’s time to turn up the heat and hope this smokin’ hot fireman can control the blaze.
Blurb: Libby hadn’t even been in Woodvalley Pines a day and she was already freaking out. Her kitchen had just set on fire. From toast of all things! That’s right, she was the victim of the elusive toaster fire. Yes, a toaster. Who knew they could just spontaneously burst into flames? She certainly didn’t. If that wasn’t enough to ruin her day, a swarm of hot firefighters seeing her in her pink pajamas would do it.
Zach tried his hardest not to laugh as the woman in the Disney pajamas accused him of keeping toaster fire safety a secret. He didn’t know where in the world this angry green-eyed princess had come from, but he had to admit that he was intrigued. After all, if she had this much passion when it came to talking toasters, what other kind of flames could he stoke in her?
Libby and Zach’s spark was instant, but will the fire burn out or can they keep the flames blazing?
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“Looking beautiful tonight, princess.”
He watched as her nose crinkled while she scanned her own outfit.
“My sweatpants are beautiful?” she challenged.
“No … but the woman in them is.”
“This isn’t a date,” she reminded him, her smile quickly disappearing.
“Is that why you wore sweatpants?”
“Maybe.”
It was his turn to smile. So transparent. “Well, not sure your cunning plan worked, princess … ‘cause you still look hot as f**k in those pants.” He let his gaze trail down her body. “Actually, I’m pretty sure the way they cling to those curves of yours is gonna make me blush. I’m not sure how appropriate that would be – considering this isn’t a date.”
His plan worked. She was blushing again. Now all he had to do was control himself. And put his tongue back in his mouth. The black yoga pants she had on were the biggest test. Paired with a white vest and a black lace bra on full display –he was in for a tough night.
“Those lines normally work for you?” Pink cheeks diluted some of her sass.
“You always take compliments so well?” He could do this all night.
A cute little growl slipped past those pouted lips. “You’re lucky I’m hungry.” The door opened wider as she gestured him inside. “So, what did you bring?”
“You like steak?” Zach turned briefly to make sure she was following him as he made a beeline for the kitchen.
“Is the sky blue? Of course I like steak. You’re making us steak?”
“Is the sun hot?” he teased.
“You’re hilarious.”
“I try.” He broke into another smile as he settled the groceries onto her countertop.
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The title is more than appropriate. Besides having her toaster catch on fire, Libby is also toast when it comes to relationships—and I mean putting her foot down, but Zach is determined to win her over.
This novel is a great start to the series. Libby is a character readers can root for. She has her moments of doubt, even insecurities, but she’s also strong-willed, stubborn, and extremely independent. Inside of her, though, lies a wounded little girl who craves love, even though she keeps denying it to herself. I LOVED her character arc. She came a long way from the beginning of the novel. And even though this is a short read, her change was believable.
Then there is Zach, the hunky firefighter who saves Libby from her crazy toaster. He’s all about love. Why wouldn’t he be? He comes from a loving family with awesome brothers. This man lives to help others. But at times his family can be too intrusive, especially his father. Zach has to find a way to attain his dreams—and that’s continuing to work as a firefighter and win the lady who caught his eye from the get-go.
This small-town romance has everything expected in this genre: nosey family, interfering friends, cheerful shopkeepers, and a great vibe throughout the town. I especially adored Libby’s friend Kat, and her new bestie Rachel.
The connection between Libby and Zach sizzles from the get-go. And their budding relationship—thanks to Zach’s persistence—blossoms into a full-out romance.
There’s snappy dialogue, great romantic scenes, and wonderful descriptions painting a pretty setting. Do yourself a favour and get a copy. It’s a great read, perfect for a rainy afternoon now that spring has sprung.
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Isobel was born and raised in London. She still lives along the River Thames with her husband and her substantial book collection. Ever the hopeless romantic, she fell in love with the genre from a young age and was inspired to write her own stories. When she’s not feasting on romantic comedies or binge reading her hoard of contemporary romance novels, Isobel is writing.
Follow Isobel: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Tik-Tok | Goodreads | BookBub | Amazon
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Maggie Blackbird 
We appreciate you reviewing TOASTED today – thank you so much!
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So pleased to hear you enjoyed the book, thanks so much for sharing ❤️
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