All Consuming

Burton delivers her reliable blend of heat and sweet in the irresistible third Brotherhood by Fire romance (after Ignite on Contact). Kal Donovan is a proud firefighter and paramedic, following in the footsteps of his adoptive brothers and father. A new addition to the technical rescue team of the Fort Lauderdale, Fla., fire department, Kal’s still contending with newbie hazing when he attends his 10-year high school reunion—and runs into Hannah Clark, the girlfriend he’s never gotten over. After divorcing her first husband, Hannah returned to Fort Lauderdale with her seven-year-old son, Oliver, to open a beauty salon. Kal broke her heart when they were teens, and she’s wary about getting involved with him again. But soon, their combustive chemistry overcomes them both—expertly characterized by Burton as she ratchets up the heat factor — and they must decide if they’re willing to risk their hearts all over again. Burton has a fine touch with this second-chance romance, not shying away from the difficulties of dating as a single mother and believably depicting how Oliver and Kal bond. The taut plot, expert characterization, and raft of lovable supporting characters (especially Hannah’s sassy mother, Paige) make this a winner. Agent: Kimberly Whalen, the Whalen Agency. (Mar.)