Trial By Fire, By Jo Davis

I've been meaning to review this book. I saw Shannon's review a few weeks ago, and well, with a rec like that, and me actively looking for new contemporary authors to try, it didn't take long for me to hit the bookstore and nab my own copy.

I'd like to say that I loved it as much as Shannon. First of all, I'm not sure that's possible, LOL. Secondly though, to tell the truth I was a little lukewarm on it. This is Ms. Davis' debut novel and if it isn't revoltingly condescending of me to say so, I think she shows a lot of potential. Trial By Fire has some definite great points--Howard's abs and love scenes that really work top the list-- but I found some of the dialog and some of the narrative to be a little clunky. Really good characters though, with good chemistry will keep Davis on my to-read list; I mean, who doesn't love a fireman? I also liked the little tidbits we got about the fellow squad members to lay the groundwork for future books. They seem like unique characters in the their own right, not cookie-cutter copies.

I must admit, choosing today to feature a book about firemen is not exactly an accident-- Jo Davis is being featured today at MyLifetime.com, and it seemed appropriate. I hope it doesn't come off as cheesy or exploitive; it's meant to be topical and a salute, if you will.

On this day in 2001, in the midst of tragedy and loss, we were priviledged to see true heroism in action. Those of us who spend our free time cuddled up with fictional heroes can perhaps appreciate that even more than most.