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Boston Fire #1
Heat Exchange
Lydia Kincaid's shipping back to Boston, but she's not happy about it. She left to get away from the firefighting community—her father was a firefighter, her brother's a firefighter and, more important, her ex is a firefighter. But family is number one, and her father needs her help running the pub he bought when he retired. Soon, Lydia finds it hard to resist the familiar comfort and routine, and even harder to resist her brother's handsome friend Aidan.
Aidan Hunt is a firefighter because of the Kincaid family. He's had the hots for Lydia for years, but if ever a woman was off-limits to him, it's her. Aside from being his mentor's daughter, she's his best friend's sister. The ex-wife of a fellow firefighter. But his plan to play it cool until she leaves town again fails, and soon he and Lydia have crossed a line they can't uncross.
As Aidan and Lydia's flirtation turns into something more serious, Lydia knows she should be planning her escape. Being a firefighter's wife was the hardest thing she's ever done, and she doesn't know if she has the strength to do it again. Aidan can't imagine walking away from Boston Fire—even for Lydia. The job and the brotherhood are his life; but if he wants Lydia in it, he'll have to decide who's first in his heart.
Aidan Hunt is a firefighter because of the Kincaid family. He's had the hots for Lydia for years, but if ever a woman was off-limits to him, it's her. Aside from being his mentor's daughter, she's his best friend's sister. The ex-wife of a fellow firefighter. But his plan to play it cool until she leaves town again fails, and soon he and Lydia have crossed a line they can't uncross.
As Aidan and Lydia's flirtation turns into something more serious, Lydia knows she should be planning her escape. Being a firefighter's wife was the hardest thing she's ever done, and she doesn't know if she has the strength to do it again. Aidan can't imagine walking away from Boston Fire—even for Lydia. The job and the brotherhood are his life; but if he wants Lydia in it, he'll have to decide who's first in his heart.
336 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 25, 2015
841 people are currently reading
4422 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Stacey
136books2,639followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Shannon Stacey lives with her husband and two sons in New England, where her favorite activities are writing romance and really random tweets when she’s not riding her ATV. She loves mud, books, football & watching way too much TV.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 385 reviews
March 23, 2016
This was exactly my kind of book!
Shannon Stacey delivers another winner with Heat Exchange. It had everything I want in my contemporary romance read.
Sweet romance. Check.
Forbidden love/relationship. Check.
Hot and irresistible firefighter hero. Check.
Adorable heroine. Check.
Older woman/Younger man romance. Oh yeah, check!
See? I couldn't ask for more! I loved everything about this book, from an engaging storyline to true-to-life characters, and to the wonderful ending. I was so engrossed in the story and enjoyed every page of it.
Lydia Kincaid left her hometown, family, and friends, to start her new life in Concord, New Hampshire. She got tired of the firefighting community. Her father is a retired firefighter. Her younger brother is a firefighter. Her brother-in-law is a firefighter. Moreover, her cheating ex-husband is a firefighter, too.
Aidan Hunt is the best friend of Lydia's younger brother. He became the firefighter because of the Kincaid family. Lydia’s father, considered him as his own son, so that made Lydia off-limits to him. He knew he should stop fancying his best friend’s sister but when she came back to Boston to help running the family’s pub temporarily, he couldn’t think about anything but her.
Both Aidan and Lydia didn’t expect the strong attraction between them. They knew it was wrong, yet they still desperately wanted each other, so much so that they couldn’t resist their desires anymore. They agreed to keep their relationship a secret. Scotty is more like brother than friend to Aidan so he felt so bad lying to his best friend.
As they spent more time together, Aidan found himself wanted to have a serious future with her. But Lydia, on the other hand, tried to keep distance between them. She had sworn to herself that she would never again be a firefighter’s wife. But it was too late—she already fell in love with him.
Finally, when their secret wasn’t a secret anymore, Aidan felt like he lost everything. Lydia knew that his job and the brotherhood were his life but she couldn’t go down the same old path. So, she had to walk away from him though it broke her heart into pieces. And if Aidan didn’t want to lose her, he would have to decide between the job he loved and the woman he couldn’t live without.
By the way, I’m so happy I picked up this book. I loved it! It’s really worth a try. This was a great read, indeed!
Shannon Stacey delivers another winner with Heat Exchange. It had everything I want in my contemporary romance read.
Sweet romance. Check.
Forbidden love/relationship. Check.
Hot and irresistible firefighter hero. Check.
Adorable heroine. Check.
Older woman/Younger man romance. Oh yeah, check!
See? I couldn't ask for more! I loved everything about this book, from an engaging storyline to true-to-life characters, and to the wonderful ending. I was so engrossed in the story and enjoyed every page of it.
Lydia Kincaid left her hometown, family, and friends, to start her new life in Concord, New Hampshire. She got tired of the firefighting community. Her father is a retired firefighter. Her younger brother is a firefighter. Her brother-in-law is a firefighter. Moreover, her cheating ex-husband is a firefighter, too.
Aidan Hunt is the best friend of Lydia's younger brother. He became the firefighter because of the Kincaid family. Lydia’s father, considered him as his own son, so that made Lydia off-limits to him. He knew he should stop fancying his best friend’s sister but when she came back to Boston to help running the family’s pub temporarily, he couldn’t think about anything but her.
Both Aidan and Lydia didn’t expect the strong attraction between them. They knew it was wrong, yet they still desperately wanted each other, so much so that they couldn’t resist their desires anymore. They agreed to keep their relationship a secret. Scotty is more like brother than friend to Aidan so he felt so bad lying to his best friend.
As they spent more time together, Aidan found himself wanted to have a serious future with her. But Lydia, on the other hand, tried to keep distance between them. She had sworn to herself that she would never again be a firefighter’s wife. But it was too late—she already fell in love with him.
He stood when she did and held her hand while they walked to his truck. It was sweet, and she loved that he opened her door for her. And she knew this wasn't a show for their so-called first date, either. Aiden was always polite and over the years, she'd seen him hold the door or pull out chairs for women all the time at the bar, whether they were with him or not. She liked that about him.
Hell, she liked a lot of things about him.
Finally, when their secret wasn’t a secret anymore, Aidan felt like he lost everything. Lydia knew that his job and the brotherhood were his life but she couldn’t go down the same old path. So, she had to walk away from him though it broke her heart into pieces. And if Aidan didn’t want to lose her, he would have to decide between the job he loved and the woman he couldn’t live without.
"You are the most important thing in the whole world to me. I choose you, Lydia. It will never matter what the choice is. It won't matter who or what or why, I will always choose you."
By the way, I’m so happy I picked up this book. I loved it! It’s really worth a try. This was a great read, indeed!
May 16, 2016
is the first installment in 's adult contemporary/fireman romance series titled: Boston Fire. I love, love, love !!! was my first "fireman" book, but seeing one of my favorite authors jumping on the bandwagon of fireman-themed romances had me super excited to read it.
My thoughts: felt like the football-themed romances I have read in the past when the football player has a forbidden romance with the coach's daughter. I've read this theme over and over to the point that I now pass on football themes altogether. This storyline felt the same except minus the football player/coach's daughter dynamic and add in fireman/fireman partner's sister - You see, there's a brotherhood code among these firefighters which includes no dating each others' sisters. However, there were some original elements I'd like to note. The heroine is older than the hero which was a nice change. There were some fun texting moments which were necessary due to their secret romance (loved the texting!). And there's a family history of firefighting that adds some complexity to the characters and their choices. With that complexity though we get a heroine who is burnt out from the stress of loving men in this profession and this causes some control issues on her end and pretty extreme bitterness in my opinion. I personally did not find the heroine likable but Ms. Stacey wrote her in a way that at least allowed me to recognize the source of her issues.
Overall, I liked . I'm undecided about continuing the series but I would absolutely recommend to every adult reader who enjoys the romance genre. Check her out!!
My favorite quote:
"It won't just work out. You have to work at working it out."
Note: The Boston Fire series includes the following installments as of May 2016:
#1-
#2-
#3-
3/6/16:
Love Shannon Stacey!!!!
2/11/16:
On sale for $.99 on Amazon (USA)
My thoughts: felt like the football-themed romances I have read in the past when the football player has a forbidden romance with the coach's daughter. I've read this theme over and over to the point that I now pass on football themes altogether. This storyline felt the same except minus the football player/coach's daughter dynamic and add in fireman/fireman partner's sister - You see, there's a brotherhood code among these firefighters which includes no dating each others' sisters. However, there were some original elements I'd like to note. The heroine is older than the hero which was a nice change. There were some fun texting moments which were necessary due to their secret romance (loved the texting!). And there's a family history of firefighting that adds some complexity to the characters and their choices. With that complexity though we get a heroine who is burnt out from the stress of loving men in this profession and this causes some control issues on her end and pretty extreme bitterness in my opinion. I personally did not find the heroine likable but Ms. Stacey wrote her in a way that at least allowed me to recognize the source of her issues.
Overall, I liked . I'm undecided about continuing the series but I would absolutely recommend to every adult reader who enjoys the romance genre. Check her out!!
My favorite quote:
"It won't just work out. You have to work at working it out."
Note: The Boston Fire series includes the following installments as of May 2016:
#1-
#2-
#3-
3/6/16:
Love Shannon Stacey!!!!
2/11/16:
On sale for $.99 on Amazon (USA)
August 25, 2015
3 - "I sound like a self-centred bitch." Stars!
Heat Exchange is the first book I have read by Shannon Stacey, although not totally in love with it, I would still recommend it. My reasons for disliking the story were more due to the author’s characterization of Lydia Kincaid, than my actual dislike of the writing and storyline, in those areas everything was really enjoyable. I just really struggled with Lydia’s judgemental and somewhat selfish attitude.
I think my main issue was the fact that she has returned to Boston after a few years absence to cover in her families bar while her sister sorts her life out, and rather than settle in, take stock and see how the land lies with everyone, she just barrels in pushing her ideals and opinions on anyone and everyone who would listen.
”You don’t fish in the stations pond.�
However, when her relationship with Aidan becomes common knowledge, she then tells everyone to mind their own business when it comes to them giving their opinions of her life and perceived failings.
”Brotherhood first. Everybody else gets whats left.�
As I said, my rating on the book is purely because of Lydia and her personality, everything else was pretty stellar, and I will definitely be looking to read the second book in the Boston Fire series; Controlled Burn, which is due for release this November.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
Heat Exchange is the first book I have read by Shannon Stacey, although not totally in love with it, I would still recommend it. My reasons for disliking the story were more due to the author’s characterization of Lydia Kincaid, than my actual dislike of the writing and storyline, in those areas everything was really enjoyable. I just really struggled with Lydia’s judgemental and somewhat selfish attitude.
I think my main issue was the fact that she has returned to Boston after a few years absence to cover in her families bar while her sister sorts her life out, and rather than settle in, take stock and see how the land lies with everyone, she just barrels in pushing her ideals and opinions on anyone and everyone who would listen.
”You don’t fish in the stations pond.�
However, when her relationship with Aidan becomes common knowledge, she then tells everyone to mind their own business when it comes to them giving their opinions of her life and perceived failings.
”Brotherhood first. Everybody else gets whats left.�
As I said, my rating on the book is purely because of Lydia and her personality, everything else was pretty stellar, and I will definitely be looking to read the second book in the Boston Fire series; Controlled Burn, which is due for release this November.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
August 6, 2015
Originally posted on
Lydia Kincaid returns to Boston when her sister's marriage starts to fall apart. It's a tough decision since she left to establish her independence from her family of firefighters following her divorce from a man in the same line of business. So it came as a huge surprise to her when her younger brother, Scotty, enters the family bar with his best friend and fellow fire fighter, Aidan Hunt, and she feels the urge to take a second look.
I loved all of the conflicts in this story. First, Aidan is younger than Lydia and her image of him was as her kid brother's friend. He had the hurdle of getting her to see him differently. Then there's the issue of him being not only Scotty's best friend but his firefighting partner. That whole "brotherhood code" includes a ban on "touching" sisters. Lastly, Lydia's struggles with her father lay beneath all of her issues. Lydia and Aidan had to have very strong feelings for each other to risk all of their other relationships in being together.
While Lydia's strong personality could be a bit much at times, I admired her passion and commitment to family in spite of their very real issues. Aidan was hard not to like with his easy manner and sweet nature. I also liked how their romance developed in the midst of subterfuge and secrecy. The conflicts were realistic, thorny and not easily resolved, making this a more substantive read, especially with an interesting cast of secondary characters. What a great start to the series!
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
Lydia
Aidan
Lydia Kincaid returns to Boston when her sister's marriage starts to fall apart. It's a tough decision since she left to establish her independence from her family of firefighters following her divorce from a man in the same line of business. So it came as a huge surprise to her when her younger brother, Scotty, enters the family bar with his best friend and fellow fire fighter, Aidan Hunt, and she feels the urge to take a second look.
I loved all of the conflicts in this story. First, Aidan is younger than Lydia and her image of him was as her kid brother's friend. He had the hurdle of getting her to see him differently. Then there's the issue of him being not only Scotty's best friend but his firefighting partner. That whole "brotherhood code" includes a ban on "touching" sisters. Lastly, Lydia's struggles with her father lay beneath all of her issues. Lydia and Aidan had to have very strong feelings for each other to risk all of their other relationships in being together.
While Lydia's strong personality could be a bit much at times, I admired her passion and commitment to family in spite of their very real issues. Aidan was hard not to like with his easy manner and sweet nature. I also liked how their romance developed in the midst of subterfuge and secrecy. The conflicts were realistic, thorny and not easily resolved, making this a more substantive read, especially with an interesting cast of secondary characters. What a great start to the series!
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
Lydia
Aidan
January 6, 2020
Heat Exchange is book one in the Boston Fire series by Shannon Stacey.
I’ve seen some excellent review’s for this series that have made me want to check it out; besides that just look at that cover. Who doesn’t want a sexy hot firefighter.
This was my first taste of Shannon Stacey. It was a nice start. I enjoyed the premise and the heat.
Lydia know’s what life entails as a fireman’s wife. She doesn’t want that again. I can see her perspective, but I felt she shouldn’t close herself off; because not all are like her ex-husband. After her divorce she escapes town for a few year’s, but comes home when her sister, Ashley calls, needing her support and help. Now, she’s back where she didn’t want to be and falling for her little brother’s best friend.
Aiden he’s a hard worker, sweet, caring, sexy, and best friends with Lydia’s brother, Scotty. He shouldn’t be falling for his best friends sister; however he wants to take the risk and see what happens.
I had fun with Heat Exchange. I really liked Aiden. He was sweet, kind, and willing to put himself out there. He helps Lydia get over the past and move on. Lydia I liked, but at times I got frustrated with her. I can’t put my finger on what, but she did have her moments. Their romance was genuine and earnest. Which I really liked. The author also added great emotional growth and passion. It was honest and relatable.
Stacey has created genuinely likable and relatable characters in her Boston Fire series. I enjoyed all the Boston Firemen introduced along with all the other characters.
We are treated to a little side story as well featuring Ashley and her husband Danny in their separation and struggle. Besides that Ashely brings a little honesty to Lydia that she doesn't want to hear, but needs.
Heat Exchange was enjoyable and I’m looking forward to continuing the series.
Narrator: This is my first taste of Tatiana Sokolov as a narrator. I enjoyed her voices and how she added a little Boston accent to her characters. I had a good time listening and recommend the audio.
Rated: 3.5 Stars
Narration: 4 Stars
I’ve seen some excellent review’s for this series that have made me want to check it out; besides that just look at that cover. Who doesn’t want a sexy hot firefighter.
This was my first taste of Shannon Stacey. It was a nice start. I enjoyed the premise and the heat.
Lydia know’s what life entails as a fireman’s wife. She doesn’t want that again. I can see her perspective, but I felt she shouldn’t close herself off; because not all are like her ex-husband. After her divorce she escapes town for a few year’s, but comes home when her sister, Ashley calls, needing her support and help. Now, she’s back where she didn’t want to be and falling for her little brother’s best friend.
Aiden he’s a hard worker, sweet, caring, sexy, and best friends with Lydia’s brother, Scotty. He shouldn’t be falling for his best friends sister; however he wants to take the risk and see what happens.
I had fun with Heat Exchange. I really liked Aiden. He was sweet, kind, and willing to put himself out there. He helps Lydia get over the past and move on. Lydia I liked, but at times I got frustrated with her. I can’t put my finger on what, but she did have her moments. Their romance was genuine and earnest. Which I really liked. The author also added great emotional growth and passion. It was honest and relatable.
Stacey has created genuinely likable and relatable characters in her Boston Fire series. I enjoyed all the Boston Firemen introduced along with all the other characters.
We are treated to a little side story as well featuring Ashley and her husband Danny in their separation and struggle. Besides that Ashely brings a little honesty to Lydia that she doesn't want to hear, but needs.
Heat Exchange was enjoyable and I’m looking forward to continuing the series.
Narrator: This is my first taste of Tatiana Sokolov as a narrator. I enjoyed her voices and how she added a little Boston accent to her characters. I had a good time listening and recommend the audio.
Rated: 3.5 Stars
Narration: 4 Stars
March 13, 2020
Between 2 and 3 stars - literally skimmed to the end. Just could not get into it! Another time, another day it might have been bettter for me!
March 9, 2016
This review was originally posted on
Summary
When Lydia's sister Ashley, is having marriage problems and asks that Lydia comes home for a little while to help out, Lydia reluctantly comes. Lydia isn't quite ready to return home yet, but she will do anything for her sister no matter how uncomfortable it makes her. When she comes home, she sees that Ashley is really struggling, and takes over her job at their fathers pub and she runs into Aiden Hunt. Lydia has known Aiden for a long while, but never really was interested in him until now. The exchanges between Lydia and Aiden are fiery hot, but their relationship is a bit forbidden. Its unwritten code not to trespass over ones best friends sister or the daughter of a man that is like a second father to him. But Aiden knows what he has with Lydia is worth the risk even if he hates himself to lying to his closest friend. But before they can find something truly good together, Aiden has to figure out a way to prove to Lydia they are worth the risk.
The Hero
Aiden Hunt, is a firefighter for the Boston Fire Dept. He loves his work and it is what makes him who he is. Aiden when he was a kid, was involved in an accident, where he was able to take command of a situation, and the firefighters there (Lydia's father) led him to be able to fulfill his destiny....to be in command of a sitation and to save lives and do a dang good job of it. Aiden is the type of firefighters....you know every firefighter should be. He found his calling for it when he was pretty young, but he was driven and found a job that makes him who he is. Aiden has issues with his family especially his father who tends to be very emotionally abusive. But Aiden found a second family, in the Kincaids. What I adored about Aiden is how truly good he is....such a remarkable human being. He is honest and true to the core. We see how keeping his relationship to Lydia a secret is killing him inside and boy I loved that about him. And the willingness he goes to for the woman he loves. He is super delectable!!
The Heroine
Lydia Kincaid, left Boston to get away from the fire fighter community. She had to take over a fire fighter's household after her mother passed away from cancer. She had to live with the mental and emotional toll it took on her every time her father or her brother were on a rescue op and never knew anything for hours. But the worst of it for her, was her past marriage to a firefighter. She tried it, her ex ended up being horrible. Lydid left to get away from it all because it caused her too much pain for her to deal with. We see the way that Lydia struggled entering another relationship with a firefighter. Because she knows the risks more than anyone and is unsure if she can live the life again. But soon Lydia discovers a hidden strength she didn't know she had. Lydia is one of those heroines who is toughest on the inside. She has issues with her father and brother though. She isn't afraid to say what she thinks especially if they disagree (which they do and often). But we see why she takes a certain stand against them, because in her mind she and her sister could never compete with the "brotherhood of firefighters". To her, her father and brother always put their family second. So we see that she has some issues to face but thankfully Aiden is up for the challenge.
Plot and Story Line
In Heat Exchange, we see a sexy and emotionally powerfully love story come into play here. Now I have a weakness for sexy firefighters....I mean what woman doesn't??!! And man when I saw this cover at the library, I grabbed it up. I don't even remember glancing at the blurb. hehe All I know was one sexy male on cover and it dealt with a firefighter---no resistance on my part hehe. But also I have never read this author, and I really wanted to give her a chance. And I did and I fell in love with her. I was worried, not sure if I would like her style of writing, but boy I really liked it. I love how involved I got in the story. This couple is simply awesome and from the beginning I was eager to see how it would play out. But we also get a small side romance with the sister Ashley and her husband Danny. These two are having marital problems, because Danny is a quiet man and doesn't exactly say "I Love You" often or hardly ever....he is more of a show and tell guy but super quiet and reserved. But don't worry....they eventually find their HEA. I liked seeing their story, because it was nice seeing how a married couple works through serious issues.
The story between Aiden and Lydia is quite HOT!! Oh boy....do these two create some fireworks here. But honestly....on a emotional level they hit the spot perfectly for me. I love a forbidden romance, and the whole man trespassing on his best friends sister trope always works for me. I guess because, he has close ties to the family originally. Aiden and Lydia were quite a remarkable couple and I loved them together. There were moments this story just about broke me though, especially with Lydia and her issues with the "brotherhood". You definitely could see why she has issues with firefighters, especially with how her father and brother are. Especially her brother....boy he needs to have some sense knocked into him. I know he has a book....so maybe I will get to see him humbled a bit. hehe
Quite frankly....this story rocks and anyone that love a firefighter romance must read it!! YOU GO SHANNON STACEY!!
The Cover
HOT!!!!!SEXY!!! DROOLWORTHY!!! THAT IS ALL FOLKS!
Overall View
Heat Exchange is a stimulating and fiery hot romance that I couldn't get enough of. Shannon Stacey writes remarkable contemporary romance and I was defintiely hooked on Heat Exchange. It had a vibrancy feel, a truly emotional read with great sensuality and in depth characters!! A DANG SWEET ROMANCE!!
[foogallery id="19766"]
Summary
When Lydia's sister Ashley, is having marriage problems and asks that Lydia comes home for a little while to help out, Lydia reluctantly comes. Lydia isn't quite ready to return home yet, but she will do anything for her sister no matter how uncomfortable it makes her. When she comes home, she sees that Ashley is really struggling, and takes over her job at their fathers pub and she runs into Aiden Hunt. Lydia has known Aiden for a long while, but never really was interested in him until now. The exchanges between Lydia and Aiden are fiery hot, but their relationship is a bit forbidden. Its unwritten code not to trespass over ones best friends sister or the daughter of a man that is like a second father to him. But Aiden knows what he has with Lydia is worth the risk even if he hates himself to lying to his closest friend. But before they can find something truly good together, Aiden has to figure out a way to prove to Lydia they are worth the risk.
The Hero
Aiden Hunt, is a firefighter for the Boston Fire Dept. He loves his work and it is what makes him who he is. Aiden when he was a kid, was involved in an accident, where he was able to take command of a situation, and the firefighters there (Lydia's father) led him to be able to fulfill his destiny....to be in command of a sitation and to save lives and do a dang good job of it. Aiden is the type of firefighters....you know every firefighter should be. He found his calling for it when he was pretty young, but he was driven and found a job that makes him who he is. Aiden has issues with his family especially his father who tends to be very emotionally abusive. But Aiden found a second family, in the Kincaids. What I adored about Aiden is how truly good he is....such a remarkable human being. He is honest and true to the core. We see how keeping his relationship to Lydia a secret is killing him inside and boy I loved that about him. And the willingness he goes to for the woman he loves. He is super delectable!!
The Heroine
Lydia Kincaid, left Boston to get away from the fire fighter community. She had to take over a fire fighter's household after her mother passed away from cancer. She had to live with the mental and emotional toll it took on her every time her father or her brother were on a rescue op and never knew anything for hours. But the worst of it for her, was her past marriage to a firefighter. She tried it, her ex ended up being horrible. Lydid left to get away from it all because it caused her too much pain for her to deal with. We see the way that Lydia struggled entering another relationship with a firefighter. Because she knows the risks more than anyone and is unsure if she can live the life again. But soon Lydia discovers a hidden strength she didn't know she had. Lydia is one of those heroines who is toughest on the inside. She has issues with her father and brother though. She isn't afraid to say what she thinks especially if they disagree (which they do and often). But we see why she takes a certain stand against them, because in her mind she and her sister could never compete with the "brotherhood of firefighters". To her, her father and brother always put their family second. So we see that she has some issues to face but thankfully Aiden is up for the challenge.
Plot and Story Line
In Heat Exchange, we see a sexy and emotionally powerfully love story come into play here. Now I have a weakness for sexy firefighters....I mean what woman doesn't??!! And man when I saw this cover at the library, I grabbed it up. I don't even remember glancing at the blurb. hehe All I know was one sexy male on cover and it dealt with a firefighter---no resistance on my part hehe. But also I have never read this author, and I really wanted to give her a chance. And I did and I fell in love with her. I was worried, not sure if I would like her style of writing, but boy I really liked it. I love how involved I got in the story. This couple is simply awesome and from the beginning I was eager to see how it would play out. But we also get a small side romance with the sister Ashley and her husband Danny. These two are having marital problems, because Danny is a quiet man and doesn't exactly say "I Love You" often or hardly ever....he is more of a show and tell guy but super quiet and reserved. But don't worry....they eventually find their HEA. I liked seeing their story, because it was nice seeing how a married couple works through serious issues.
The story between Aiden and Lydia is quite HOT!! Oh boy....do these two create some fireworks here. But honestly....on a emotional level they hit the spot perfectly for me. I love a forbidden romance, and the whole man trespassing on his best friends sister trope always works for me. I guess because, he has close ties to the family originally. Aiden and Lydia were quite a remarkable couple and I loved them together. There were moments this story just about broke me though, especially with Lydia and her issues with the "brotherhood". You definitely could see why she has issues with firefighters, especially with how her father and brother are. Especially her brother....boy he needs to have some sense knocked into him. I know he has a book....so maybe I will get to see him humbled a bit. hehe
Quite frankly....this story rocks and anyone that love a firefighter romance must read it!! YOU GO SHANNON STACEY!!
The Cover
HOT!!!!!SEXY!!! DROOLWORTHY!!! THAT IS ALL FOLKS!
Overall View
Heat Exchange is a stimulating and fiery hot romance that I couldn't get enough of. Shannon Stacey writes remarkable contemporary romance and I was defintiely hooked on Heat Exchange. It had a vibrancy feel, a truly emotional read with great sensuality and in depth characters!! A DANG SWEET ROMANCE!!
[foogallery id="19766"]
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December 5, 2015
12/05/2015 --
Pretty simple read, but really perfect for my mood. I think I have a few other Shannon Stacey books on my Nook or Kindle, but never read one before. I'd heard she was a pretty decent read, and I'd have to agree. I enjoyed this one. I got it for a dollar on sale. I purchased the next in the series and even pre-ordered the one after that -- that's how much I enjoyed it. She creates really believable characters in an everyday setting. Little angst [thank the good lord .. so sick of the OVER THE TOP angst writers write that make my head hurt]. I'm excited to read more by this author. 4 Stars.
Happy Reading!
Pretty simple read, but really perfect for my mood. I think I have a few other Shannon Stacey books on my Nook or Kindle, but never read one before. I'd heard she was a pretty decent read, and I'd have to agree. I enjoyed this one. I got it for a dollar on sale. I purchased the next in the series and even pre-ordered the one after that -- that's how much I enjoyed it. She creates really believable characters in an everyday setting. Little angst [thank the good lord .. so sick of the OVER THE TOP angst writers write that make my head hurt]. I'm excited to read more by this author. 4 Stars.
Happy Reading!
April 15, 2015
ARC received for review
Great start to a series. There was a little angst plus lots of hot fireman. Loved Aidan and the rest of Engine 59. I can't wait to see who falls next. Plus there's a the bonus romance line of Lydia's sister, Ashley, and her reconciliation with her fireman husband.
Great start to a series. There was a little angst plus lots of hot fireman. Loved Aidan and the rest of Engine 59. I can't wait to see who falls next. Plus there's a the bonus romance line of Lydia's sister, Ashley, and her reconciliation with her fireman husband.
March 31, 2016
And yet another major case of "it's me, not the book". I get why this has such a high rating, but there were just too many things that annoyed me to no end that made me stop caring about any of the characters involved. There was just too much juvenile drama going on for my taste.
The main romance is between two people with a severe case of "we can't be together" nonsense. On his side there was "I want her! But she's my best friend's sister. But I have wanted her since I was 17! But her father is my personal hero and I can't dishonor him by lusting after her!" which got on my last nerve, with an added chorus of her "He's my little brother's best friend! But so hot! But he's four years younger than me! But so HOT! But I was married to a firefighter once, and he was an ass, so clearly he must be one, too! BUT SO HOT!". I'm sorry, but it got on my last nerve. It was all just a little too much for me. And when they started hooking up and everyone went around lying to friends and family because "they can't know we're involved!!!!!", I stopped caring. They actually plan a weekend away from everyone, which involves him picking her up in the dead of night wearing a hoodie so no one knows it's her, while telling everyone that she's home sick and he's visiting his parents. I mean, seriously, they are not teenagers. There's no actual reason against their being together, and all the lying was just so not necessary and over the top.
The secondary romance between the heroine's sister and her husband was equally annoying to me. She is of the clichéd "Why is my husband giving me space when that's exactly what I said I wanted instead of reading my mind and knowing that what I wanted was some big dramatic gesture to show he cares?" variety, and after so many wasted opportunities of talking about it like rational people, I stopped caring about them, too.
All in all, not a bad book, just avoid it if you're as allergic to drama as I am.
The main romance is between two people with a severe case of "we can't be together" nonsense. On his side there was "I want her! But she's my best friend's sister. But I have wanted her since I was 17! But her father is my personal hero and I can't dishonor him by lusting after her!" which got on my last nerve, with an added chorus of her "He's my little brother's best friend! But so hot! But he's four years younger than me! But so HOT! But I was married to a firefighter once, and he was an ass, so clearly he must be one, too! BUT SO HOT!". I'm sorry, but it got on my last nerve. It was all just a little too much for me. And when they started hooking up and everyone went around lying to friends and family because "they can't know we're involved!!!!!", I stopped caring. They actually plan a weekend away from everyone, which involves him picking her up in the dead of night wearing a hoodie so no one knows it's her, while telling everyone that she's home sick and he's visiting his parents. I mean, seriously, they are not teenagers. There's no actual reason against their being together, and all the lying was just so not necessary and over the top.
The secondary romance between the heroine's sister and her husband was equally annoying to me. She is of the clichéd "Why is my husband giving me space when that's exactly what I said I wanted instead of reading my mind and knowing that what I wanted was some big dramatic gesture to show he cares?" variety, and after so many wasted opportunities of talking about it like rational people, I stopped caring about them, too.
All in all, not a bad book, just avoid it if you're as allergic to drama as I am.
August 19, 2015
ARC Review
I’m a sucker for stories about first responders. I love their heroic nature, their courage and self-sacrifice. But also know that all that comes at a cost to both the first responder and the people they love. Shannon Stacey does a great job highlighting this struggle in this first book of her Boston Fire series.
I really enjoyed this contemporary romance. In a cohesive manner, Heat Exchange features a poignant theme faced by many families � taking a secondary priority to the needs of the job. Being a first responder can be all-consuming. This is especially so with firefighters who spend periods of time living with one another. They rely on each other for their lives and forge a strong family bond that sometimes supersedes their relationships with their actual family members. One can understand how a family member can feel like he or she comes in second place to the firefighting family. This painful reality is the central theme in the narrative.
Lydia Kincaid has been surrounded by the fire service all her life. Between her father, brother and her ex-husband, she is used to coming in second place in their lives. That is why she swore off firefighters and left Boston. But she reluctantly returns when her sister, Ashley, begs her to come back to help her in Ashley’s time of need. Being a dutiful sister, Lydia returns and lands straight in the middle of Aiden Hunt’s affections.
Aiden grew up around Lydia’s family. Aiden’s best friend is Lydia’s brother. They currently work together at the same fire station. Despite the turmoil their relationship is sure to create, they start a torrid affair that burns right through the pages of the book. However, based on Lydia’s history, she knows the cost of being in a relationship with a firefighter and she is unwilling to be second fiddle to the job, and so she holds herself back in the relationship. It is only when Aiden proves that he loves her more than the job does the couple get their HEA.
The conflict is made even more complicated by the colorful characters in their lives: Lydia’s dad and Aiden’s mentor, Lydia’s brother and Aiden’s best friend, Lydia’s sister and the memories of Lydia’s ex-husband. It’s all a family affair. There is also a secondary story featuring Lydia’s sister, Ashley and her husband Danny that I found endearing as well. Ashley and Danny have a difficult relationship fraught with miscommunication and complacency. This brought a nice additional element to the family conflict.
IN A NUTSHELL:
This is just the kind of romance you want featuring a firefighting family.
Originally posted at
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
I’m a sucker for stories about first responders. I love their heroic nature, their courage and self-sacrifice. But also know that all that comes at a cost to both the first responder and the people they love. Shannon Stacey does a great job highlighting this struggle in this first book of her Boston Fire series.
I really enjoyed this contemporary romance. In a cohesive manner, Heat Exchange features a poignant theme faced by many families � taking a secondary priority to the needs of the job. Being a first responder can be all-consuming. This is especially so with firefighters who spend periods of time living with one another. They rely on each other for their lives and forge a strong family bond that sometimes supersedes their relationships with their actual family members. One can understand how a family member can feel like he or she comes in second place to the firefighting family. This painful reality is the central theme in the narrative.
Lydia Kincaid has been surrounded by the fire service all her life. Between her father, brother and her ex-husband, she is used to coming in second place in their lives. That is why she swore off firefighters and left Boston. But she reluctantly returns when her sister, Ashley, begs her to come back to help her in Ashley’s time of need. Being a dutiful sister, Lydia returns and lands straight in the middle of Aiden Hunt’s affections.
Aiden grew up around Lydia’s family. Aiden’s best friend is Lydia’s brother. They currently work together at the same fire station. Despite the turmoil their relationship is sure to create, they start a torrid affair that burns right through the pages of the book. However, based on Lydia’s history, she knows the cost of being in a relationship with a firefighter and she is unwilling to be second fiddle to the job, and so she holds herself back in the relationship. It is only when Aiden proves that he loves her more than the job does the couple get their HEA.
The conflict is made even more complicated by the colorful characters in their lives: Lydia’s dad and Aiden’s mentor, Lydia’s brother and Aiden’s best friend, Lydia’s sister and the memories of Lydia’s ex-husband. It’s all a family affair. There is also a secondary story featuring Lydia’s sister, Ashley and her husband Danny that I found endearing as well. Ashley and Danny have a difficult relationship fraught with miscommunication and complacency. This brought a nice additional element to the family conflict.
IN A NUTSHELL:
This is just the kind of romance you want featuring a firefighting family.
Originally posted at
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 19, 2016
I picked this book up from a referral off of another another book I was looking at. I have read another series regarding hot firemen but has been a while, so it was kind of like a perfect book for me this week. I was in the mood for some hot guys!
I've not had the pleasure of reading anything by this author before so I was excited to have a new author to read. I enjoyed the story premise and the heat was off the charts. I was a little annoyed with the female lead, Lydia, but her steamy fireman, Aiden, had me all worked up. He is so sweet, caring, loving, and would do pretty much anything for her.
As this book is part of the series, it is definitely one series I'm going to check out the rest of the books. There are plenty of firemen to go around and I really enjoyed the steamy read!
I've not had the pleasure of reading anything by this author before so I was excited to have a new author to read. I enjoyed the story premise and the heat was off the charts. I was a little annoyed with the female lead, Lydia, but her steamy fireman, Aiden, had me all worked up. He is so sweet, caring, loving, and would do pretty much anything for her.
As this book is part of the series, it is definitely one series I'm going to check out the rest of the books. There are plenty of firemen to go around and I really enjoyed the steamy read!
December 6, 2015
Well, this was a cute one.
It was cute and fast-paced, it didn't get boring and the characters were nice.
The chemistry wasn't too present but it was good enough for me.
It's everything you'd expect form a romance novel, form beginning to end. So yeah, it's cute and worth trying, especially if you have a few hours to spare and not in the mood for anything too complicated.
It was cute and fast-paced, it didn't get boring and the characters were nice.
The chemistry wasn't too present but it was good enough for me.
It's everything you'd expect form a romance novel, form beginning to end. So yeah, it's cute and worth trying, especially if you have a few hours to spare and not in the mood for anything too complicated.
June 15, 2016
3.5 stars
November 9, 2015
How to rate?
For the most of the book I didn't enjoy this story or most of the characters, so at the end of the day it was just OK which is two stars.
Shannon Stacey is a good writer and I have liked a lot of her stories, just not this one. I fully intend to read the next in the series and have high hopes for it and definitely liked the preview.
What I liked: mmm, thinking, still thinking, get back with you on that...
What I didn't like:
I really had issues with most of the attitudes of the characters which made the read a frustrating one. I get brotherhood, what I don't get is the brotherhood trumps family. This was Lydia's main problem with her "hometown family and friends". And from my perspective this attitude didn't get resolved, more of a pretend resolve to get to an HEA.
I really don't like how Lydia's character was developed. She was developed into the "run away and ignore your problems" persona versus the "leave and make your life work better" persona. I don't really feel that her character grew at all.
I am so tired of the "can't date within the circle" theme. It is so over used and from my perspective stupid. If two people like each other, it shouldn't be a big deal...definitely shouldn't lead to best friends in a slug fest. It's different if one or the other is "using" someone within the circle; but dating should be OK.
It was a push to get to the end and I skimmed a lot...
For the most of the book I didn't enjoy this story or most of the characters, so at the end of the day it was just OK which is two stars.
Shannon Stacey is a good writer and I have liked a lot of her stories, just not this one. I fully intend to read the next in the series and have high hopes for it and definitely liked the preview.
What I liked: mmm, thinking, still thinking, get back with you on that...
What I didn't like:
I really had issues with most of the attitudes of the characters which made the read a frustrating one. I get brotherhood, what I don't get is the brotherhood trumps family. This was Lydia's main problem with her "hometown family and friends". And from my perspective this attitude didn't get resolved, more of a pretend resolve to get to an HEA.
I really don't like how Lydia's character was developed. She was developed into the "run away and ignore your problems" persona versus the "leave and make your life work better" persona. I don't really feel that her character grew at all.
I am so tired of the "can't date within the circle" theme. It is so over used and from my perspective stupid. If two people like each other, it shouldn't be a big deal...definitely shouldn't lead to best friends in a slug fest. It's different if one or the other is "using" someone within the circle; but dating should be OK.
It was a push to get to the end and I skimmed a lot...
April 19, 2015
2.5/5, kind of meh and ended up skimming toward the end.
March 20, 2017
3.5 stars
August 27, 2015
Lydia escaped Boston and her overbearing firefighting family and finally feels like she has a life of her own. Even though she doesn’t love being a waitress, she has an apartment and her own parking space. But when she gets a call from her sister Ashley, who tells her she has separated from her husband, she knows she is needed at home. Ashley works at the family owned bar, but knows if she goes into work the entire town will come in and ask her why she has left her husband, so she begs Lydia to come back and work for a little bit.
Aidan is Lydia’s younger brother’s best friend. A firefighter (as is Lydia’s brother and Ashley’s husband � are you keeping up??) Aidan is a good-guy hero. Not only because he saves lives, but he is just a decent dude. He has the hots for Lydia, but Lydia’s ex-husband was a firefighter and besides the marriage not working out, Lydia vowed to never love a firefighter again because of the constant worry when they are at work. But with Lydia back home, and Aidan showing up, it’s hard for her to keep that promise.
The first in a new series, Shannon Stacy sets up the family and the town well. I liked the firefighter atmosphere. I liked Aidan at work with his good buddies, not only in action but sitting around the firehouse with good banter. Aidan’s firefighter co-workers are as close to him as brothers � it was very good camaraderie. But there were also things that didn’t work for me.
Aidan and Lydia have nice chemistry, but I felt like all that happens is they work up to having sex. And while the sex scenes were nice and hot, I wanted more actual romance and courtship between them. The actual romance fell a little flat for me. Part of the reason it falls flat and my other frustration with this book, is Lydia’s sister. Ashley and Danny (her husband) separate at the beginning of this book, and their separation and drama of trying to get back together completely overshadows Aidan and Lydia. It takes away so much page time that could have been spent with our main couple. I assumed it was all a set-up for Ashley and Danny to get their own book next � and I enjoy books about already established couples who have lost their way. But instead, it kind of gets resolved in this one. There was just too much going on with Ashley and Danny and not enough with Lydia and Aidan.
It was a nice read, but lacking a little too.
Grade: C+
Aidan is Lydia’s younger brother’s best friend. A firefighter (as is Lydia’s brother and Ashley’s husband � are you keeping up??) Aidan is a good-guy hero. Not only because he saves lives, but he is just a decent dude. He has the hots for Lydia, but Lydia’s ex-husband was a firefighter and besides the marriage not working out, Lydia vowed to never love a firefighter again because of the constant worry when they are at work. But with Lydia back home, and Aidan showing up, it’s hard for her to keep that promise.
The first in a new series, Shannon Stacy sets up the family and the town well. I liked the firefighter atmosphere. I liked Aidan at work with his good buddies, not only in action but sitting around the firehouse with good banter. Aidan’s firefighter co-workers are as close to him as brothers � it was very good camaraderie. But there were also things that didn’t work for me.
Aidan and Lydia have nice chemistry, but I felt like all that happens is they work up to having sex. And while the sex scenes were nice and hot, I wanted more actual romance and courtship between them. The actual romance fell a little flat for me. Part of the reason it falls flat and my other frustration with this book, is Lydia’s sister. Ashley and Danny (her husband) separate at the beginning of this book, and their separation and drama of trying to get back together completely overshadows Aidan and Lydia. It takes away so much page time that could have been spent with our main couple. I assumed it was all a set-up for Ashley and Danny to get their own book next � and I enjoy books about already established couples who have lost their way. But instead, it kind of gets resolved in this one. There was just too much going on with Ashley and Danny and not enough with Lydia and Aidan.
It was a nice read, but lacking a little too.
Grade: C+
December 28, 2015
Review copy provided via NetGalley
Why I Read This Book: I had to read Heat Exchange because � hello, FIREFIGHTERS!! Plus, Shannon Stacey writes fun, sexy romances. I discovered this author by her Kowalski Family series, and I plan to read through her other books as well.
What I Liked: Friends to lovers romances are one of my favorites. Add in the off-limits BFF sibling and it’s even better. I like the clandestine romance, the tension, and watching it all unfold when the secret’s out � and I got all of that in Heat Exchange.
The Kincaids are a close-knit family that reminded me of the author’s Kowalski Family series, which I loved. You get the fun natured family who are hilarious, fun to be around, and sarcastic at times but there for each other through thick and thin.
I loved Aidan’s connection to the Kincaid family. His backstory of how he became a firefighter brought a tear to my eye and gave me chills. The brotherhood among Engine 59’s firefighters is strong and tough. They’re there for each other and have each others� backs no matter what. That just makes these guys even hotter.
What I Didn’t Like: There’s a secondary storyline following Ashley’s (Lydia’s sister) on the rocks marriage with a fellow firefighter. I would’ve liked this more if it had been a lower dose. The lack of communication between Ashley and her estranged husband, Danny, was frustrating.
Memorable Moments:
Overall Impression: Heat Exchange was a good start to the series with great, well-developed characters, and I’m looking forward to reading the next book.
Why I Read This Book: I had to read Heat Exchange because � hello, FIREFIGHTERS!! Plus, Shannon Stacey writes fun, sexy romances. I discovered this author by her Kowalski Family series, and I plan to read through her other books as well.
What I Liked: Friends to lovers romances are one of my favorites. Add in the off-limits BFF sibling and it’s even better. I like the clandestine romance, the tension, and watching it all unfold when the secret’s out � and I got all of that in Heat Exchange.
The Kincaids are a close-knit family that reminded me of the author’s Kowalski Family series, which I loved. You get the fun natured family who are hilarious, fun to be around, and sarcastic at times but there for each other through thick and thin.
I loved Aidan’s connection to the Kincaid family. His backstory of how he became a firefighter brought a tear to my eye and gave me chills. The brotherhood among Engine 59’s firefighters is strong and tough. They’re there for each other and have each others� backs no matter what. That just makes these guys even hotter.
What I Didn’t Like: There’s a secondary storyline following Ashley’s (Lydia’s sister) on the rocks marriage with a fellow firefighter. I would’ve liked this more if it had been a lower dose. The lack of communication between Ashley and her estranged husband, Danny, was frustrating.
Memorable Moments:
“Damn right you wouldn’t make a move. You don’t date the other guys� ex-girlfriends. Or ex-wives or sisters or…hell, mothers or daughters. You don’t fish in the station’s pond.�
---
“Your hose fully charged, is it?�
Overall Impression: Heat Exchange was a good start to the series with great, well-developed characters, and I’m looking forward to reading the next book.
October 4, 2015
I liked this! I liked it significantly more than the small owns that have been Stacey's output lately. (And weirdly, given that this is actually set in Boston, there was much less obnoxious Patriots fangirling going on than there usually is.) It does contain one of my favorite things (a man being willing to make a significant sacrifice for the woman he loves), but frustratingly, it ends up being mitigated by the woman telling him it's not necessary. The option is still left open for the future, so at least that's something.
April 2, 2016
Ah, the sibling's best friend trope. When executed well, you usually get some angst from both parties involved (guilt for sure) and the difficulties the relationship (whether secret or out in the open) causes with the sibling. But because it's generally a forbidden love affair type of story, the sex can be pretty hot. This story has it all and then some, taking the trope a little out of the norm by having an older sister falling for her younger brother's friend (not a huge age difference, but definitely a factor). Plus - firefighters! I was on board from the word go.
Lydia has been surrounded by firefighters her whole life. Her father is retired from the profession and now runs an Irish pub, her brother Scott is a firefighter, her ex -husband is one, and her brother's friend Aidan. Aidan's been around Lydia's family as long as she can remember, but when she comes back from where she's been living to help her dad at the pub (the hangout place for the local firemen), he's no longer the kid she remembers. When they start a secret affair it's her intention that it's just to scratch the itch, the 'I wonder' feelings they've had for each other for a while, and no emotional attachment is allowed. When her sister Amber, having marital difficulties with her firefighter husband Danny is ready to go back and work at the bar again ( a place she's been avoiding and the reason for Lydia's return) she has full intentions of going back home. Never mind that she quit her job before she left and really has only a shared apartment and roommate that she left behind. Can Aidan prove to her that he's nothing like her ex and that they have a chance at a real future together?
While Lydia is a few years older than Aidan, the age difference is a minor factor in the story now that they are all grown up. Aidan is all man now, and then some. When he makes his move on Lydia, she gives into the attraction. The sex between them is hot and steamy right from the start, though it also leads them to an emotional connection that Aidan is fine with but Lydia isn't. She's not willing to be in a relationship with a firefighter again, though truthfully she is guilty of transferring her feelings about her ex onto Aidan, though he is nothing like him. She doesn't feel particularly guilty about her brother Scott not knowing about their relationship as she's a grown woman who can make her own decisions. But Aidan feels differently. He knows that his friend wouldn't be happy about it, and keeping it a secret from Scott gets more and more difficult as he and Lydia try to find stolen moments together. He doesn't outright lie to Scott, but he hides the truth pretty effectively. Of course eventually the truth is out there and both Lydia and Aidan will have to decide if they are going to stand by each other (and the feelings they've developed) or break off their affair and go back to the way things were.
Lydia's sister Amber and her husband Danny get a fair amount of story telling time too in this one, some of the chapters coming from their points of view as they struggle with communication in their marriage (or lack thereof). For Lydia, this is just more proof of why she doesn't want to get involved with another firefighter. Her father doesn't help matters either, not understanding her decisions in the past or the present. He would love for Lydia to come back and work with him at the pub and doesn't really understand why she felt she had to leave the family and strike out on her own in the first place. I really liked all the family dynamics in this story and felt that all of the plot lines blended really well to give a composite picture of their family.
It's not going to be a firefighting story with having some action scenes in it, to reinforce for Lydia the danger and stress of the job, but also the dedication and loyalty of the men and women involved in the profession. The story moves at a good pace, interspersing the relationship, family scenes, action, and the guys camaraderie in a solidly entertaining story. 4.5 stars , and I'm definitely looking forward to the next one in the series!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
Note 2: this review is posted on the SSBR blog at
Lydia has been surrounded by firefighters her whole life. Her father is retired from the profession and now runs an Irish pub, her brother Scott is a firefighter, her ex -husband is one, and her brother's friend Aidan. Aidan's been around Lydia's family as long as she can remember, but when she comes back from where she's been living to help her dad at the pub (the hangout place for the local firemen), he's no longer the kid she remembers. When they start a secret affair it's her intention that it's just to scratch the itch, the 'I wonder' feelings they've had for each other for a while, and no emotional attachment is allowed. When her sister Amber, having marital difficulties with her firefighter husband Danny is ready to go back and work at the bar again ( a place she's been avoiding and the reason for Lydia's return) she has full intentions of going back home. Never mind that she quit her job before she left and really has only a shared apartment and roommate that she left behind. Can Aidan prove to her that he's nothing like her ex and that they have a chance at a real future together?
While Lydia is a few years older than Aidan, the age difference is a minor factor in the story now that they are all grown up. Aidan is all man now, and then some. When he makes his move on Lydia, she gives into the attraction. The sex between them is hot and steamy right from the start, though it also leads them to an emotional connection that Aidan is fine with but Lydia isn't. She's not willing to be in a relationship with a firefighter again, though truthfully she is guilty of transferring her feelings about her ex onto Aidan, though he is nothing like him. She doesn't feel particularly guilty about her brother Scott not knowing about their relationship as she's a grown woman who can make her own decisions. But Aidan feels differently. He knows that his friend wouldn't be happy about it, and keeping it a secret from Scott gets more and more difficult as he and Lydia try to find stolen moments together. He doesn't outright lie to Scott, but he hides the truth pretty effectively. Of course eventually the truth is out there and both Lydia and Aidan will have to decide if they are going to stand by each other (and the feelings they've developed) or break off their affair and go back to the way things were.
Lydia's sister Amber and her husband Danny get a fair amount of story telling time too in this one, some of the chapters coming from their points of view as they struggle with communication in their marriage (or lack thereof). For Lydia, this is just more proof of why she doesn't want to get involved with another firefighter. Her father doesn't help matters either, not understanding her decisions in the past or the present. He would love for Lydia to come back and work with him at the pub and doesn't really understand why she felt she had to leave the family and strike out on her own in the first place. I really liked all the family dynamics in this story and felt that all of the plot lines blended really well to give a composite picture of their family.
It's not going to be a firefighting story with having some action scenes in it, to reinforce for Lydia the danger and stress of the job, but also the dedication and loyalty of the men and women involved in the profession. The story moves at a good pace, interspersing the relationship, family scenes, action, and the guys camaraderie in a solidly entertaining story. 4.5 stars , and I'm definitely looking forward to the next one in the series!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
Note 2: this review is posted on the SSBR blog at
August 9, 2018
**This was an ARC copy given free by Netgalley in exchange for a honest review**
3-3.5 stars
This was a good story. I liked both Lydia and Aidan. Their story was enjoyable but there were some detractors for me that kept me from rating it higher.
Lydia is a nice woman that grew up with a firefighter for her father. Lydia, her sister Ashley and brother Scott had a lot on their shoulders after their mom died and Lydia became the default caregiver. When they grew up, Scott, became a fourth generation firefighter and both Lydia and Ashley married firefighters. Unfortunately, Lydia's husband was liar and a cheat so she divorced him and then moved away to avoid the hassles about the split from others in the firefighter "brotherhood".
Aidan is a good guy and loves being a firefighter. He first realized his calling when he was 11 years old and his family was in an accident. That incident brought about his connection with Tom (Lydia's father) and Scott (who became his best friend). Aidan's family has money and looks down on him for his job, thinking that helping people should be beneath him.
The story begins with Ashley calling Lydia and begging her to move back to Boston for a while to help her out. Ashley's relationship with her husband has gone south and she doesn't feel up to facing things at the family bar where she works. Considering that it's a firefighter bar and everyone seems to feel free to force their noses in other people's business, I can't really blame her. I will warn you now, this story actually contains two romances since a good amount of time is given to the issues between Ashley and her husband and how things work out for them. Lydia doesn't want to go back home but she does want to help her sister out. She makes arrangements to be away for a couple of months and then packs a bag and drives home. When she stops in at the bar to see everyone, she sees Aidan for the first time in years. Much to her chagrin, Lydia's first reaction is sexual and she realizes she'll need to watch herself considering Aidan is her little brother's best friend.
The attraction between Aidan and Lydia is mutual and strong but they both fight it. They both know that there's a hands off sign between them but it's hard to stay away. They do try but eventually fail in their efforts at distance. They end up agreeing to a secret sexual relationship while Lydia is in town so they can get each other out of their systems. Yeah....no big surprise how that goes...the more they are together the less they want to let each other go. There are many issues between Lydia and Aidan, partially from external elements (like Scott) and partially from internal ones (like Lydia's extreme issues with firefighters and having to compete with the "brotherhood"). I liked Lydia and Aidan together but there was a lot of stress and angst to get through before they could really be a couple. Thankfully, things do get worked out between Lydia and Aidan so that they end the story starting a HEA together.
This was an enjoyable story. I liked Aidan and Lydia but I will note that a couple of the secondary characters (namely Tom and Scott) were more of a downer to the story than anything else. And while I liked the secondary romance storyline of Ashley's, I sometimes found it a bit of a distraction. Overall, this was a good story and although I had some complaints I think I'll still try the next book in the series. :)
3-3.5 stars
This was a good story. I liked both Lydia and Aidan. Their story was enjoyable but there were some detractors for me that kept me from rating it higher.
Lydia is a nice woman that grew up with a firefighter for her father. Lydia, her sister Ashley and brother Scott had a lot on their shoulders after their mom died and Lydia became the default caregiver. When they grew up, Scott, became a fourth generation firefighter and both Lydia and Ashley married firefighters. Unfortunately, Lydia's husband was liar and a cheat so she divorced him and then moved away to avoid the hassles about the split from others in the firefighter "brotherhood".
Aidan is a good guy and loves being a firefighter. He first realized his calling when he was 11 years old and his family was in an accident. That incident brought about his connection with Tom (Lydia's father) and Scott (who became his best friend). Aidan's family has money and looks down on him for his job, thinking that helping people should be beneath him.
The story begins with Ashley calling Lydia and begging her to move back to Boston for a while to help her out. Ashley's relationship with her husband has gone south and she doesn't feel up to facing things at the family bar where she works. Considering that it's a firefighter bar and everyone seems to feel free to force their noses in other people's business, I can't really blame her. I will warn you now, this story actually contains two romances since a good amount of time is given to the issues between Ashley and her husband and how things work out for them. Lydia doesn't want to go back home but she does want to help her sister out. She makes arrangements to be away for a couple of months and then packs a bag and drives home. When she stops in at the bar to see everyone, she sees Aidan for the first time in years. Much to her chagrin, Lydia's first reaction is sexual and she realizes she'll need to watch herself considering Aidan is her little brother's best friend.
The attraction between Aidan and Lydia is mutual and strong but they both fight it. They both know that there's a hands off sign between them but it's hard to stay away. They do try but eventually fail in their efforts at distance. They end up agreeing to a secret sexual relationship while Lydia is in town so they can get each other out of their systems. Yeah....no big surprise how that goes...the more they are together the less they want to let each other go. There are many issues between Lydia and Aidan, partially from external elements (like Scott) and partially from internal ones (like Lydia's extreme issues with firefighters and having to compete with the "brotherhood"). I liked Lydia and Aidan together but there was a lot of stress and angst to get through before they could really be a couple. Thankfully, things do get worked out between Lydia and Aidan so that they end the story starting a HEA together.
This was an enjoyable story. I liked Aidan and Lydia but I will note that a couple of the secondary characters (namely Tom and Scott) were more of a downer to the story than anything else. And while I liked the secondary romance storyline of Ashley's, I sometimes found it a bit of a distraction. Overall, this was a good story and although I had some complaints I think I'll still try the next book in the series. :)
August 24, 2015
Shannon Stacey graces her readers with a brand new series with the release of Heat Exchange, the debut novel of the Boston Fire series. Lydia Kincaid is forced to return to her hometown, albeit for a little while, when her sister requires her presence back home. Lydia had walked away from the life she had lived after being through it all. The daughter of a fireman and moving onto become the wife of one had taught her the hardships and the stress related to living the life of the one who stays back and worries about the safety of your loved ones.
Aidan Hunt is one of Lydia’s brother’s best friends, a firefighter himself who knows he should stay away from Lydia for more reasons than one. Lydia is the daughter of his mentor and also the ex-wife of a fireman who had worked in their regiment. Yet, the heat that is between Lydia and himself is palpable, strong enough that it makes staying away an impossible feat.
Lydia can’t believe herself when she starts having the hots for her annoying brother’s equally annoying best friend. Being 4 years older than Aidan, Lydia believes she should be able to shrug off the attraction that simmers in the air between them, but finds herself unable to say no and turn her back on what being with Aidan means.
When I picked up Heat Exchange, I expected a novel that would sweep me off my feet, not my fault entirely when Shannon Stacey is an author who has delivered on that countless times with her novels. Sadly, when it came to Heat Exchange, I found that the book was just okay at best. Nothing in particular about the story stood out for me or grabbed me in a way that would be unforgettable.
I found myself a bit annoyed with Lydia at times. Aidan though, was a sweetheart through and through. Perhaps they are ying and yang under the circumstances, each being the direct opposite of one another. There is a little side story happening alongside that with the main story of Aidan and Lydia; that of Lydia’s sister and her husband who hits a rough patch in their marriage. That story line actually had the potential to be an interesting one, but Shannon nipped that right in the bud by resolving everything together with the main story.
Recommended for fans of Shannon Stacey and those who love reading about firefighter heroes.
Rating = 3.5/5
For more reviews & quotes, please visit www.maldivianbookreviewer.com
Aidan Hunt is one of Lydia’s brother’s best friends, a firefighter himself who knows he should stay away from Lydia for more reasons than one. Lydia is the daughter of his mentor and also the ex-wife of a fireman who had worked in their regiment. Yet, the heat that is between Lydia and himself is palpable, strong enough that it makes staying away an impossible feat.
Lydia can’t believe herself when she starts having the hots for her annoying brother’s equally annoying best friend. Being 4 years older than Aidan, Lydia believes she should be able to shrug off the attraction that simmers in the air between them, but finds herself unable to say no and turn her back on what being with Aidan means.
When I picked up Heat Exchange, I expected a novel that would sweep me off my feet, not my fault entirely when Shannon Stacey is an author who has delivered on that countless times with her novels. Sadly, when it came to Heat Exchange, I found that the book was just okay at best. Nothing in particular about the story stood out for me or grabbed me in a way that would be unforgettable.
I found myself a bit annoyed with Lydia at times. Aidan though, was a sweetheart through and through. Perhaps they are ying and yang under the circumstances, each being the direct opposite of one another. There is a little side story happening alongside that with the main story of Aidan and Lydia; that of Lydia’s sister and her husband who hits a rough patch in their marriage. That story line actually had the potential to be an interesting one, but Shannon nipped that right in the bud by resolving everything together with the main story.
Recommended for fans of Shannon Stacey and those who love reading about firefighter heroes.
Rating = 3.5/5
For more reviews & quotes, please visit www.maldivianbookreviewer.com
September 9, 2015
With Heat Exchange, Shannon Stacey kicks off a new series based around Boston firefighters. If they're all going to be as good as this installment, I'm definitely coming back for more!
I first encountered Stacey with her Kowalski series. I enjoyed her writing because while her stories contain some of the time-honored sweetness of small-town romance, her characters also felt quite modern. I like her voice a lot, and as she moves into a more urban setting with this new series, she writes characters that feel believable and come alive.
Lydia Kincaid left Boston for New Hampshire following a nasty divorce. She wanted to leave behind some bad memories and changing from working at the family bar to working in a fancy restaurant seemed like a good idea. However, family issues now bring her home. Her sister's marriage is on the rocks and she needs Lydia's help. So, Lydia leaves her job and comes home temporarily. She's not thrilled about going back to Kincaid's or about being surrounded by the world of firefighter families again, but family is family and she's going to be loyal.
No sooner does Lydia get back behind the bar at Kincaid's than she runs into an old acquaintance - her brother's best friend Aidan Hunt. And Aidan has grown up to be gorgeous and a wonderful human being besides. The attraction between the two is almost immediate but they take their time acting on it. After all, Lydia grew up with a firefighter father whose devotion to the job way outstripped his devotion to family and her ex was also a fireman. And for Aidan, there's another problem. He serves with Lydia's brother and there's an unwritten rule among the firefighters - sisters are off limits. The fact that Lydia's father was Aidan's mentor doesn't exactly help either.
So, what makes this book such a great read? Lydia and Aidan just seemed so perfect together, and their world just came alive to me. I don't know Boston at all, but Lydia's family, the bar, and their circle of friends reminded me of actual blue collar folks I know. The obstacles these two faced felt believable as well.
This is a partial review. You can find the complete text at All About Romance:
I first encountered Stacey with her Kowalski series. I enjoyed her writing because while her stories contain some of the time-honored sweetness of small-town romance, her characters also felt quite modern. I like her voice a lot, and as she moves into a more urban setting with this new series, she writes characters that feel believable and come alive.
Lydia Kincaid left Boston for New Hampshire following a nasty divorce. She wanted to leave behind some bad memories and changing from working at the family bar to working in a fancy restaurant seemed like a good idea. However, family issues now bring her home. Her sister's marriage is on the rocks and she needs Lydia's help. So, Lydia leaves her job and comes home temporarily. She's not thrilled about going back to Kincaid's or about being surrounded by the world of firefighter families again, but family is family and she's going to be loyal.
No sooner does Lydia get back behind the bar at Kincaid's than she runs into an old acquaintance - her brother's best friend Aidan Hunt. And Aidan has grown up to be gorgeous and a wonderful human being besides. The attraction between the two is almost immediate but they take their time acting on it. After all, Lydia grew up with a firefighter father whose devotion to the job way outstripped his devotion to family and her ex was also a fireman. And for Aidan, there's another problem. He serves with Lydia's brother and there's an unwritten rule among the firefighters - sisters are off limits. The fact that Lydia's father was Aidan's mentor doesn't exactly help either.
So, what makes this book such a great read? Lydia and Aidan just seemed so perfect together, and their world just came alive to me. I don't know Boston at all, but Lydia's family, the bar, and their circle of friends reminded me of actual blue collar folks I know. The obstacles these two faced felt believable as well.
This is a partial review. You can find the complete text at All About Romance:
April 28, 2024
I don’t know about this book. It had potential, best friend’s forbidden sister. Unfortunately, the writing wasn’t good. Everything felt very rushed, there wasn’t much romantic development or bonding between hunt and Lydia, emotional connection wasn’t as much as I wanted it to, and their issues were resolved so quickly with one chat at the end. Even Ashley’s and Danny’s marriage issue could have been solved if they’d just sit down and talk.
July 11, 2015
Flirty firefighter? Check. No nonsense chick? Check. Wicked cool cast of characters? Check. HEAT EXCHANGE is a sexy, fun read that'll make your summer even hotter!!
Lydia Kincaid left Boston but returns when her sister and husband separate. Lydia gets her sister's frustration and reticence to work in dad's pub while having trouble with her husband…after all, he's a firefighter along with their brother and dad…and her own ex-husband. When Lydia reconnects with her brother Scott's BFF Aidan Hunt, the sparks between them are instantaneous and completely surprising.
Even though Aidan has been attracted to Lydia for years, she's 100%, absolutely, completely and totally off limits as his best friend's sister and daughter of his mentor. But the heat the two of them generate could set Boston on fire, and they're powerless to resist the pull. But when they realize that sneaking around and lying to family and friends isn't the way this should be going, they're already in too deep.
Aw man, how much do I love HEAT EXCHANGE!? It's funny, it's sexy, it's well written and it's got just enough relationship drama to have you looking forward to finding out how things play out. I love this crazy Boston Kincaid family, their fighting and banter and special brand of insane had me smiling and laughing about how realistic they are. The sex scenes were erotic yet romantic, the chemistry between Lydia and Aiden just perfect, surprisingly giving me a lot of AWWW moments. Their pursuit of a relationship despite the HELL NO dictate from the firefighter brotherhood was interesting and filled with emotional potholes both from friends and family, and I totally loved them together. My absolute favorite scene though was toward the end when Lydia was getting drunk with her girlfriends and they were hatching revenge plots. I literally LOL'd the entire way through. Brilliant and soooo realistic.
Bottom Line: This is a fabulous read, and I'm already excitedly anticipating the next books in the Boston Fire Series. - See more at:
- See more at:
Lydia Kincaid left Boston but returns when her sister and husband separate. Lydia gets her sister's frustration and reticence to work in dad's pub while having trouble with her husband…after all, he's a firefighter along with their brother and dad…and her own ex-husband. When Lydia reconnects with her brother Scott's BFF Aidan Hunt, the sparks between them are instantaneous and completely surprising.
Even though Aidan has been attracted to Lydia for years, she's 100%, absolutely, completely and totally off limits as his best friend's sister and daughter of his mentor. But the heat the two of them generate could set Boston on fire, and they're powerless to resist the pull. But when they realize that sneaking around and lying to family and friends isn't the way this should be going, they're already in too deep.
Aw man, how much do I love HEAT EXCHANGE!? It's funny, it's sexy, it's well written and it's got just enough relationship drama to have you looking forward to finding out how things play out. I love this crazy Boston Kincaid family, their fighting and banter and special brand of insane had me smiling and laughing about how realistic they are. The sex scenes were erotic yet romantic, the chemistry between Lydia and Aiden just perfect, surprisingly giving me a lot of AWWW moments. Their pursuit of a relationship despite the HELL NO dictate from the firefighter brotherhood was interesting and filled with emotional potholes both from friends and family, and I totally loved them together. My absolute favorite scene though was toward the end when Lydia was getting drunk with her girlfriends and they were hatching revenge plots. I literally LOL'd the entire way through. Brilliant and soooo realistic.
Bottom Line: This is a fabulous read, and I'm already excitedly anticipating the next books in the Boston Fire Series. - See more at:
- See more at:
August 24, 2015
Review copy provided by publisher
I'm a huge Shannon Stacey fan and was loved every single one of her Kowalski books. I was super excited to start reading her new Boston Fire series.
I totally and completely loved Heat Exchange. Lydia Kincaid comes from a family of firefighters, and even was married to one for a while. She has sworn off every being in a relationship with another firefighter, so of course the only man she is attracted to is Aidan Hunt, who happens to be her brother's best friend in the world. I loved that both Aidan and Lydia tried to fight their attraction to one another, which Aidan had been doing since they were teens. Their first kiss was a scorcher and it only got hotter from there. They had some pretty big hurdles to cross to make their relationship work, which not only included Aidan being a firefighter, but the fact that Lydia is only in town to help her sister Ashley out for a bit. I really liked Aidan and Lydia as a couple and wanted them to be able to get past all issues to be together.
I loved the secondary storyline about Ashley and her husband Danny. Both Ashley and Danny still love one another, yet Danny doesn't open up enough to Ashley and so they are currently separated. While I didn't love the step Ashley took to try and get Danny to talk and be more open, I did love that they ended up growing closer and being a stronger couple because of the separation.
I think Heat Exchange was an awesome start to the Boston Fire series. I loved both the Kincaid family and the firefighter family storylines. I can't wait to read the rest of the books in the series.
I'm a huge Shannon Stacey fan and was loved every single one of her Kowalski books. I was super excited to start reading her new Boston Fire series.
I totally and completely loved Heat Exchange. Lydia Kincaid comes from a family of firefighters, and even was married to one for a while. She has sworn off every being in a relationship with another firefighter, so of course the only man she is attracted to is Aidan Hunt, who happens to be her brother's best friend in the world. I loved that both Aidan and Lydia tried to fight their attraction to one another, which Aidan had been doing since they were teens. Their first kiss was a scorcher and it only got hotter from there. They had some pretty big hurdles to cross to make their relationship work, which not only included Aidan being a firefighter, but the fact that Lydia is only in town to help her sister Ashley out for a bit. I really liked Aidan and Lydia as a couple and wanted them to be able to get past all issues to be together.
I loved the secondary storyline about Ashley and her husband Danny. Both Ashley and Danny still love one another, yet Danny doesn't open up enough to Ashley and so they are currently separated. While I didn't love the step Ashley took to try and get Danny to talk and be more open, I did love that they ended up growing closer and being a stronger couple because of the separation.
I think Heat Exchange was an awesome start to the Boston Fire series. I loved both the Kincaid family and the firefighter family storylines. I can't wait to read the rest of the books in the series.
October 18, 2015
I've long been a fan of Ms. Stacey's Kowalski family books and it looks like she has another good series started with Heat Exchange.
Lydia and Aidan have known each other for a little while. Lydia has been immersed in the 'firefighting family' all her life. Her father was a firefighter, her brother is a firefighters, her sister is married to one and he ex is one as well. So in order to get away from this family after her marriage fell apart, she moved to another city. But she is back to help filling in for her sister at the family bar her father bought at the end of his career fighting fires. Her sister and brother-in-law are going through a rough patch and she's just not up to working for a while.
There is a great deal of attraction between Lydia and Aiden when they meet up. But Aiden is slightly younger than Lydia and even bigger struggle is he is also Lydia's brothers best friend - and you don't mess with the bro' code which means staying away from sisters. And the last thing Lydia wants is to be pulled back into the world she struggled hard to pull away from. But the attraction can't be denied and soon they become more to each other than planned.
I so enjoy Ms. Stacey's books. They aren't earth shatteringly good, but they make for excellent comfort reads with good and interesting people and their stories. She has such a way of bringing the reader in and making them comfortable. The next book is out next month and I certainly plan on keep reading this series.
Lydia and Aidan have known each other for a little while. Lydia has been immersed in the 'firefighting family' all her life. Her father was a firefighter, her brother is a firefighters, her sister is married to one and he ex is one as well. So in order to get away from this family after her marriage fell apart, she moved to another city. But she is back to help filling in for her sister at the family bar her father bought at the end of his career fighting fires. Her sister and brother-in-law are going through a rough patch and she's just not up to working for a while.
There is a great deal of attraction between Lydia and Aiden when they meet up. But Aiden is slightly younger than Lydia and even bigger struggle is he is also Lydia's brothers best friend - and you don't mess with the bro' code which means staying away from sisters. And the last thing Lydia wants is to be pulled back into the world she struggled hard to pull away from. But the attraction can't be denied and soon they become more to each other than planned.
I so enjoy Ms. Stacey's books. They aren't earth shatteringly good, but they make for excellent comfort reads with good and interesting people and their stories. She has such a way of bringing the reader in and making them comfortable. The next book is out next month and I certainly plan on keep reading this series.
January 21, 2016
Awesome! Lots of favorite things in this book. Hunky hot firemen, tight close-knit family, witty banter to name a few. Also, even though the setting is Boston the neighborhood bar and familiar community give it a small town feel. Definitely a book I recommend to everyone and I can't wait to read the next one in the series!
May 19, 2015
A nice enough read, simple and easy, but that also means nothing really stuck out. It was perfectly "okay", but nothing special for me. The ending felt rushed, and I wasn't completely sold on their love through the book.
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