Review: Light My Fire by Susan May Warren

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Former bad-boy Tucker Newman has learned his lesson—as the temporary team leader of the Jude County Smokejumpers, he’s all about following the rules to keep his team safe. Especially when he has to partner with a group of local low-security prisoners to knock down the raging fire. But the prisoners are not who they seem, and when they stage a break, kidnapping one of his teammates, he’ll have to break every rule he knows to get her back.

US Marshal Stevie Mills knows that to get the job done, she must work alone. She simply can’t risk another person getting hurt because of her. When she discovers that a wanted fugitive accused of rape and murder has not only been set free to fight the fire—but is now on the lam with a hostage-- the last thing she needs is a zealous smokejumper getting in the way of her pursuit.

Whether they like it or not, Tucker and Stevie must join forces if they hope to save lives, and in the meantime, they just might discover a new definition for the word teamwork, in book 1 of the Summer of the Burning Sky.

My Review

A fast pace and non-stop action made this book one I couldn't put down! I was thrilled when I heard the author is writing more stories about the smokejumpers and hotshots that fight wildfires. Tucker comes from a difficult background, but has learned that following the rules keeps people from getting hurt- most of the time. He feels responsible for those under his leadership, and struggles with his faith when things go south.

Stevie has a past full of regrets that she hasn't forgiven herself for, and thinks those she lives the most and hurt the most can't either. She has a tough exterior and a dogged determination to work hard and get the job done, characteristics that attract Tucker, but it's the vulnerable side that she shares with him that bring them close together.

Mix firefighting with fugitives in the run and it's a recipe for high stakes danger. The escalated tension brings emotions to the surface and as struggles are revealed, Tucker, Stevie, and team member Skye provide much-needed encouragement and support in the midst of their trials. The end of this book provides a great lead-in to the next, and I can't wait to continue the adventure!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)