I have come to really enjoy the extended story of this couple- Dirk and Lee. I like reading stories when a character grows. Dirk started out as quite the jerk and on the surface, quite unlovable in book one. He had issues with his own sexuality and with his dad which understandably influenced how he behaved. Fortunately, he was blessed by a strong steady man in Lee who was willing to give him a chance.In this third story, Dirk and Lee have been a couple for over a year. This doesn't mean that everything is easy street for them. Both are still firefighters who encounter danger and sometimes the sorrow of not being able to save everyone as part of their job. Dirk is a bit down about only being able to get half the trapped residence of an old apartment complex out, but fortunately he and Lee are due a long vacation.Lee has booked them for a cruise in the Caribbean. They are just starting to relax and enjoy the amenities of their ship when they get the shock of their lives. Dirk's dad is vacationing with one of his clients on the same ship. Dirk knows he can either let it ruin things or he can start working through his issues with his dad.Lee is the strong support that Dirk has come to depend on and Lee is also wily enough to know how to help Dirk work through things. But ultimately it is Dirk and his dad that must come together and actually communicate. A surprising set of circumstances come about to allow them the chance.I enjoyed the tone of the story. This is an established relationship so I was so grateful to the author, Mr. Grey, for not adding in angst in the romantic plot line just because. This long-term couple already has unfinished business to keep things lively without forcing things. Dirk is finally confronted face to face with his dad. Because they are stuck on a ship together, nobody can cut and run. I was really interested to see how that would work out. I also appreciated the subplot of learning how both of these guys, but especially Dirk must learn to deal with their unique form of job stress. And most importantly, I thought the enduring and endearing quality of their relationship in comparison to where it all started was a nice addition.The story felt like it was tying everything up neatly with no loose ends. But I will haply agree to be wrong and see more of this couple as I've really come to like Dirk and Lee over the course of the three books.This book/series should be read in order. I recommend it for those who enjoy a passionate m/m contemporary romance between two firefighter hero types. Burnished by Fire begins eighteen months after Redemption by Fire began. Dirk and Lee are living together – much to Dirk’s father’s ire – working side by side, and finally taking a vacation together. What could go wrong with a va-ca for these two? . . .Just before they leave for their trip, the two go on one last fire run, unfortunately, Dirk isn’t able to save everyone. This colours his mood already and then when they board the ship and find his lovely father on board, Lee is left to help his lover find the romance and turn his back on pain an anger – No small order, I assure you. (I so want a Lee of my own . . . no pointing out he’s gay people . . . )Burnished by Fire is the third instalment of the By Fire series and shows the immense growth in the once asshat, Dirk (who can still be one when the mood strikes, lol), and even some for the vile father. This is one HEA that has a few twists I didn’t expect but loved and hope that any Andrew lovers out there run to grab their own copy. It’s a wonderful, short read with lots of steamy sex, hot men, and sweet love.
What do You think about Burnished By Fire (2012)?
$3.99 on Nook, I'll think I'll have to do a re-read of the first two before getting to this one.
—Calli
