Heat Under Fire

I haven't read any other books in the By Fire series, but found this spin off novella to be quite enjoyable.
Justin is a police officer who works well under pressure, except when it comes to talking to men he is attracted to, including EMS worker Rock. While working together all is well, but Justin flees from Rock once things become personal. Justin eventually manages to convey his attraction to Rock and things take off from there. Enjoyed the unexpected twist when Justin discovers the basis of his communication problems. Would love to read more about these two in future books and look forward to picking reading the series this is based on .

I have to say I have thoroughly enjoyed this By Fire spinoff. It keeps with the tone of its parent and delivers powerful emotions; love, ire and everything in between. It shows the reality of life in that none of the characters are “perfect”, each exhibiting both seamless fluidity and jittery flaws; a wonderful example of how human beings actually behave in the real world and react to everyday situations.
It was also a pleasant surprise to have another visit with Dirk & Lee, however brief it may have been.
This story will stand on its own merits but if you first read its parent series you will get a better feel for what the author has built before. The complete By Fire series can also be found at Dreamspinner Press.
(actual rating 4.5)

4.5 Drops Review
Heat Under Fire is the newest novella from Andrew Grey. It’s in the same town as the By Fire series and the Of Love books. Dirk and Lee even make brief visits! Yes, that was me squealing Unapologetically, thank you very much. When I heard that Andrew was doing a spin-off on the two hottest firefighters ever (well, a close tie with Griff and Dante, but I digress...) I knew I had to read Heat Under Fire. That said, Justin and Rock had some pretty serious boots to fill, but boy did they ever!
From the very beginning Mr. Grey had my attention, and my heart racing. Watching Justin rescue a busload of children, a bus that was hanging off the freeway, set the tone for the kind of man he is. The problem for Justin becomes readily apparent though, in a work situation he is strong, controlled, honourable, and communicates flawlessly. Take the job out of the situation and the sexy, hero suddenly can’t manage more than to gape and choke.
Rock is a paramedic and has a serious thing for the confusing and aloof Justin. Well, aloof to him. Rock knows Justin talks to others just fine, but not to him. When their lack of communication sends Justin running for home and Rock to demand what his problem is, Justin manages to use his getting tongue tied for something useful... Tangling his tongue with Rocks!
As they start seeing one another, a crazy mother, a quack, hospital visits, and the By Fire guys all get mixed in, and what a strange mix it is. But facing the past and moving forward is never easy, especially when you can’t remember the past that haunts you.
The characters are so beautifully written they stay with you long after finishing the story (I've already read it a second time... yep, just as good). They emotions so real you feel your heart race, you eyes mist, and your ... well, a fan or cold shower might be needed a few times, lol. I wholeheartedly recommend Heat Under Fire for any that love M/M romance, hot cops, sexy EMTs, and a great story.
*Heat Under Fire is a spin-off but can be read on it’s own*