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Sisters #2
The Firefighter's New Family
A tornado may have left Ashley Kern injured beneath a fallen tree, but it’s her rescuer who plays havoc with her emotions. Firefighter Devon Murphy is everything the single mom could wish for in a husband: handsome, a doting father and ready to join his family to hers. But how can the pretty war widow make a life once more with a man whose career is full of danger? Devon has fought some pretty big battles in his life, but can he help Ashley conquer her fears and show her the safest place of all is in his arms?
- GenresRomance
220 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 1, 2013
About the author
Gail Gaymer Martin
129 books134 followersMulti-award-winning novelist, Gail Gaymer Martin writes Christian fiction for Winged Publications with many books published by Love Inspired and Barbour Publishing, where she was honored by Heartsong readers as their Favorite Author of 2008. Gail has 77 published novels or novellas with over four million books in print. She is the author of Writers Digest’s Writing the Christian Romance and a founder of American Christian Fiction Writers, a keynote speaker at churches, libraries and civic organizations and presents workshops at conference across the US. She was named one of the four best novelists in the Detroit area by CBS local news. Gail loves to hear from readers through her website contact and adds the reader's name to her bi-monthly drawing for a free book or two.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
January 1, 2015
Again Gail Martin is a very dear friend, but that doesn't mean I can't read, enjoy and review her books with sincerity. :-)
Again this isn't the first of her books I've read either. Gail and I were unpublished together and I relish seeing how much she had accomplished and the good stories she has given her MANY readers.
The impetus that drives this story is the two main characters: Devon and Ashley. Devon is the firefighter of the title and Ashley is his neighbor. Both characters are immediately likeable and sympathetic--meaning I cared about them in the very first scene.
Both however have "baggage." She lost her husband in Afghanistan and he lost his wife to depression and both have young children.
So if you like stories about good people dealing honestly with hard problems, you will appreciate this story! Well done, Gail!
Again this isn't the first of her books I've read either. Gail and I were unpublished together and I relish seeing how much she had accomplished and the good stories she has given her MANY readers.
The impetus that drives this story is the two main characters: Devon and Ashley. Devon is the firefighter of the title and Ashley is his neighbor. Both characters are immediately likeable and sympathetic--meaning I cared about them in the very first scene.
Both however have "baggage." She lost her husband in Afghanistan and he lost his wife to depression and both have young children.
So if you like stories about good people dealing honestly with hard problems, you will appreciate this story! Well done, Gail!
September 5, 2014
It was a pleasure to read this novella by Mrs. Martin. I enjoyed her sweet, easy-to-read style of writing. I was not quite sure how I would feel about this story. The main character, Devon, is divorced and I always hope there will be reconciliation but it wasn't to be. Still, Devon was a likable guy and won me over. The other characters in the book were just as likable. I look forward to reading more of Gail Gaymer Martin's books.
March 23, 2023
Sweet rom
May 16, 2014
I have read a lot of books lately that are really good and that I feel I can wholeheartedly recommend. The Firefighter’s New Family is definitely one of those books. It is the second in a series, but stands alone as well. It is a contemporary romance from the Love Inspired line and is packed with emotion.
Ashley Kern and Devon Murphy are brought together when Ashley is injured. Devon comes to her aid and they begin a friendship that grows into more. Devon and Ashley are both parents to young children, and the children have a pivotal role in the book. Sometimes I feel that children can take over a story if the author is not careful. That is not the case with this book. The children are important and Devon must deal with custody issues with his ex-wife, but the central theme of this book is the developing relationship between the two main characters. The children, and their parents’ love for them enhances the story.
A relationship between Ashley and Devon could be doomed from the start. Ashley’s first husband, a soldier, died in Afghanistan. She can’t comprehend putting her heart in danger of losing another love. Falling for a firefighter was not part of her plans. The author does a great job of exploring these characters’ feelings and of examining the fear that is stopping Ashley from grabbing hold of love.
You can read this review on my blog at:
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
Ashley Kern and Devon Murphy are brought together when Ashley is injured. Devon comes to her aid and they begin a friendship that grows into more. Devon and Ashley are both parents to young children, and the children have a pivotal role in the book. Sometimes I feel that children can take over a story if the author is not careful. That is not the case with this book. The children are important and Devon must deal with custody issues with his ex-wife, but the central theme of this book is the developing relationship between the two main characters. The children, and their parents’ love for them enhances the story.
A relationship between Ashley and Devon could be doomed from the start. Ashley’s first husband, a soldier, died in Afghanistan. She can’t comprehend putting her heart in danger of losing another love. Falling for a firefighter was not part of her plans. The author does a great job of exploring these characters’ feelings and of examining the fear that is stopping Ashley from grabbing hold of love.
You can read this review on my blog at:
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
July 12, 2022
Not exactly a literary masterpiece but a sweet story about a single mum who is afraid to love again, nothing bad just a little bland and certainly not the most memorable story I have read this year. Interesting look at how a parents insecurities can still impact their adult children, finding out the reasons for her mothers constant vigilance and distrust helps Ashley to move forward in her relationship with firefighter Devon, who has his own issues with a depressed exwife.
November 4, 2023
This is a sweet romance with great characters.
December 30, 2013
The single mom storyline has been done, a lot. In "The Firefighter's New Family" (January 2014) we get a single mom and a single dad, which means twice the kids running through the story. But Gail Gaymer Martin took a familiar plot and made it fresh and fun. I read all of Gail's books and this one is not only one of my favorite GGM books but it's one of my favorite Love Inspired titles.
The characters take this book from a typical to top book. They're the kind that you're thinking about long after you put the book down.
Devon is a full-time firefighter and part-time dad. He's a hero to his community but can he be his daughter Kaylee's hero when she needs him the most?
Devon won my heart with his internal struggles and his external actions. He's not a cookie cutter hero.
I also appreciated that unlike most single parents in Christian romances, Devon has an ex-spouse who is still alive. The way Devon and Ashley interact with her helped me respect them even more.
When I first met Ashley in her sister Neely's book, "Her Valentine Hero" (February 2013), I really didn't like her very much. Ashley was fragile and kind of selfish as she struggled with the death of her husband, being a widow at a young age, and raising her son Joey without a father figure.
By the time we meet Ashley again in this book she has healed some and has found her faith and her backbone. Ashley's kind, dependable, coolheaded, and the kind of friend most would love to have.
While Ashely is eager to be Devon's friend she's reluctant to love him. She can accept almost anything about him, except his job. She lost her first husband to duty and honor and she's determined not to put herself or her son in that position again.
Devon and Ashley don't experience a lot of fireworks in their relationship but there are a lot of obstacles that could blow up their budding romance. I enjoyed the respect and friendship that grows between the two as they both come to the place where they can trust and love again.
The kids, Joey and Kaylee, really are cute. I didn't skip their scenes as I sometimes do in these types of books. They sound and act like real kids and I'd actually like to hang out with them. Kaylee's honest questions made me want to hug her.
It was nice to catch up with Neeley and Jon, as well as Ashley's dad (from "Her Valentine Hero.")
This is a stand alone book but it's worth reading book one in the Sisters series to get Ashley's back story and to find how Neeley won her happily ever after.
Buy this book and share it with a friend or donate it to a library. It's too good to keep to yourself.
*I received a free copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The characters take this book from a typical to top book. They're the kind that you're thinking about long after you put the book down.
Devon is a full-time firefighter and part-time dad. He's a hero to his community but can he be his daughter Kaylee's hero when she needs him the most?
Devon won my heart with his internal struggles and his external actions. He's not a cookie cutter hero.
I also appreciated that unlike most single parents in Christian romances, Devon has an ex-spouse who is still alive. The way Devon and Ashley interact with her helped me respect them even more.
When I first met Ashley in her sister Neely's book, "Her Valentine Hero" (February 2013), I really didn't like her very much. Ashley was fragile and kind of selfish as she struggled with the death of her husband, being a widow at a young age, and raising her son Joey without a father figure.
By the time we meet Ashley again in this book she has healed some and has found her faith and her backbone. Ashley's kind, dependable, coolheaded, and the kind of friend most would love to have.
While Ashely is eager to be Devon's friend she's reluctant to love him. She can accept almost anything about him, except his job. She lost her first husband to duty and honor and she's determined not to put herself or her son in that position again.
Devon and Ashley don't experience a lot of fireworks in their relationship but there are a lot of obstacles that could blow up their budding romance. I enjoyed the respect and friendship that grows between the two as they both come to the place where they can trust and love again.
The kids, Joey and Kaylee, really are cute. I didn't skip their scenes as I sometimes do in these types of books. They sound and act like real kids and I'd actually like to hang out with them. Kaylee's honest questions made me want to hug her.
It was nice to catch up with Neeley and Jon, as well as Ashley's dad (from "Her Valentine Hero.")
This is a stand alone book but it's worth reading book one in the Sisters series to get Ashley's back story and to find how Neeley won her happily ever after.
Buy this book and share it with a friend or donate it to a library. It's too good to keep to yourself.
*I received a free copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 3, 2014
It’s funny sometimes the way God works. Two neighbors who were meant to be together are finally brought together by a terrible storm. We may never have such a dramatic experience like this in our own lives, but it is amazing how God brings us through the storms in life and if we allow ourselves, we come out on the other end very blessed. That is what I took away from The Firefighter’s New Family. While I really enjoyed the story, as I always do, I enjoyed the comforting message that Gail has delivered in such a beautiful way.
One of the things that Gail’s books always allow me to do is to really think about God’s love for His children. Even when it looks like things will never be good again, God proves to us that it will be and sometimes even better.
I have been reading Gail’s books for a few years now and I have been noticing that each book seems to have more depth than the one before. The romance and love stories are always nice, simple stories, but the message is deep and that makes for a terrific combination. Ashley and Devon were such likeable characters, but I really felt like their children stole the show. They made for a nice family with a lot of warmth. I think Gail must love children because they are always so charming her in stories.
If you are looking for a nice, simple love story, The Firefighter’s New Family is the book you are looking for. If you want an excellent Christian message that will fill you with the comfort of God’s love, this book is also the book you are looking for. I love all of Gail’s books and I love to see that her books keep getting better and better. We still have one more book in this series and I can’t wait to read it. I can’t wait to see new love blossom and to see more of God’s love in action.
One of the things that Gail’s books always allow me to do is to really think about God’s love for His children. Even when it looks like things will never be good again, God proves to us that it will be and sometimes even better.
I have been reading Gail’s books for a few years now and I have been noticing that each book seems to have more depth than the one before. The romance and love stories are always nice, simple stories, but the message is deep and that makes for a terrific combination. Ashley and Devon were such likeable characters, but I really felt like their children stole the show. They made for a nice family with a lot of warmth. I think Gail must love children because they are always so charming her in stories.
If you are looking for a nice, simple love story, The Firefighter’s New Family is the book you are looking for. If you want an excellent Christian message that will fill you with the comfort of God’s love, this book is also the book you are looking for. I love all of Gail’s books and I love to see that her books keep getting better and better. We still have one more book in this series and I can’t wait to read it. I can’t wait to see new love blossom and to see more of God’s love in action.
December 10, 2013
Firefighters, actually men in uniform, are still the most visible of any hero. Firefighters overparticular are available for rescue from any type of catastrophe from a pet in the tree to tornado clean-up.
This is the second book in a series, Sisters, but like most Love Inspired books from Harlequin, each book stands alone, reading the whole series does help the reader to learn to know the characters in a deeper fashion, and for me adds to the experience. On its own, though it is still a delightful story that speaks of second chances, of heart break and new life.
I love picking up the shorter stories because although my emotions and thoughts do get involved, I know that the story will not drag me from my real life for a more than a short time. Gail's books are always a charming read with loveable but realistic people. I am amazed at how she, and the other authors that contribute to the line can bring such depth of details to the reader in such few words. Although concise, nothing vital is lost or missing. A great read, and since this is the Christmas season, a great gift for friend or hostess!
I received this book free from Gail Gaymer Martin in exchange for an honest review and promotion. The opinions stated are my own. Thanks Gail!
This is the second book in a series, Sisters, but like most Love Inspired books from Harlequin, each book stands alone, reading the whole series does help the reader to learn to know the characters in a deeper fashion, and for me adds to the experience. On its own, though it is still a delightful story that speaks of second chances, of heart break and new life.
I love picking up the shorter stories because although my emotions and thoughts do get involved, I know that the story will not drag me from my real life for a more than a short time. Gail's books are always a charming read with loveable but realistic people. I am amazed at how she, and the other authors that contribute to the line can bring such depth of details to the reader in such few words. Although concise, nothing vital is lost or missing. A great read, and since this is the Christmas season, a great gift for friend or hostess!
I received this book free from Gail Gaymer Martin in exchange for an honest review and promotion. The opinions stated are my own. Thanks Gail!
January 19, 2015
Sisters
Book 2
This was my favorite book of the entire series! Deven was like *sigh* and he was the hero any woman would love! How can you not love a man who saves a little boy, then his Mama. He immediately starts taking care of them like they were old friends and their romance grows throughout the book. Gail Gaymer Martin has an excellent way of writing romance. I respect that she doesn't let all this tension take place until the very end where they get together. I like that a romantic relationship is building almost from the first page. And I like how she wrote this family together.
Though we are familiar with Ashley and her loss of her husband killed while serving his country, we aren't familiar with the circumstances surrounding Clint and his daughter. I tell you, I wanted to pick up that little girl and take her home to her Daddy then tell him to keep her there forever! The author did such a wonderful job in tugging on everyone of my emotions! I found myself not wanting the book to end and felt sad when it did. I wished desperately that we could have a second book based on their life!
Such a great book! And Mrs. Martin is such a great, great, great writer!
Book 2
This was my favorite book of the entire series! Deven was like *sigh* and he was the hero any woman would love! How can you not love a man who saves a little boy, then his Mama. He immediately starts taking care of them like they were old friends and their romance grows throughout the book. Gail Gaymer Martin has an excellent way of writing romance. I respect that she doesn't let all this tension take place until the very end where they get together. I like that a romantic relationship is building almost from the first page. And I like how she wrote this family together.
Though we are familiar with Ashley and her loss of her husband killed while serving his country, we aren't familiar with the circumstances surrounding Clint and his daughter. I tell you, I wanted to pick up that little girl and take her home to her Daddy then tell him to keep her there forever! The author did such a wonderful job in tugging on everyone of my emotions! I found myself not wanting the book to end and felt sad when it did. I wished desperately that we could have a second book based on their life!
Such a great book! And Mrs. Martin is such a great, great, great writer!
December 6, 2013
Another hit by Gail Gaymer Martin. #2 In her Sister's series. 'A Firefighter's New Family, focuses on Neely's sister, Ashley Kern, a young war widow and single mom, with an adorable 3 yr old, Joey. Ashley meets firefighter, and fellow single Dad Devon Murphy when she is injured. There is an instant attraction. But Ashley is afraid to give her heart to another man with a dangerous career.
I LOVED Ashley and Devon. Devon was just a sweetie. Little Joey and Kaylee (Devon's daughter) were adorable. I liked how Kaylee didn't like him , and was jealous at first of her Daddy's attention to and bond with little Joey. Very realistic. I felt sympathy for Devon's Ex (not going to give it away. You have to read the story) and Devon. I never did end up caring for the ex sis in -law Renee.
I really enjoyed this story. You don't 'HAVE' to read, 'Her Valentine Hero' (The first one in the series. Ashley's sister, Neely's story), but, you will want to. Especially if your already familiar with Ms. Martin's books, and know how good she is.
I LOVED Ashley and Devon. Devon was just a sweetie. Little Joey and Kaylee (Devon's daughter) were adorable. I liked how Kaylee didn't like him , and was jealous at first of her Daddy's attention to and bond with little Joey. Very realistic. I felt sympathy for Devon's Ex (not going to give it away. You have to read the story) and Devon. I never did end up caring for the ex sis in -law Renee.
I really enjoyed this story. You don't 'HAVE' to read, 'Her Valentine Hero' (The first one in the series. Ashley's sister, Neely's story), but, you will want to. Especially if your already familiar with Ms. Martin's books, and know how good she is.
December 24, 2013
A tornado brings Devon into Ashley's life. Joey, her young son finds safety in Devon. Ashley had a tree fall on her causing her to have surgery on her leg.
She only lives 3 houses down from Devon. So Devon helps her out as much as he can. Since I have a knee replacement and ankle fusion, I know how hard it is to maneuver with a cast. It is a struggle.
Then their is Kaylee, Devon' daughter, product of his ex-wife and she is bipolar. Devon had no idea of her condition when he married her. My daughter has a friend who is bipolar and description is very real. It is hard sometimes.
Kaylee is one year older than Joey (or a few months anyway).
Ashley had lost her first husband as he was killed in war. So she had issues where Devon's job was concerned.
Life is never a guarantee. And as Gail wrote in story it is like a puzzle at times.
Romance wins out. Kaylee gets to live full time with her Dad and visit her Mom. Custody issues are always hard on a family.
An encouraging read about trust and faith.
She only lives 3 houses down from Devon. So Devon helps her out as much as he can. Since I have a knee replacement and ankle fusion, I know how hard it is to maneuver with a cast. It is a struggle.
Then their is Kaylee, Devon' daughter, product of his ex-wife and she is bipolar. Devon had no idea of her condition when he married her. My daughter has a friend who is bipolar and description is very real. It is hard sometimes.
Kaylee is one year older than Joey (or a few months anyway).
Ashley had lost her first husband as he was killed in war. So she had issues where Devon's job was concerned.
Life is never a guarantee. And as Gail wrote in story it is like a puzzle at times.
Romance wins out. Kaylee gets to live full time with her Dad and visit her Mom. Custody issues are always hard on a family.
An encouraging read about trust and faith.
February 28, 2014
Ashley Kern's day goes from bad to worse when a tornado hits and a tree falls on her. Trapped under the tree with three year old joey inside the house spells trouble. However, Ashley is rescued by Lieutenant Devon Murphy, firefighter. Not only does he rescue Ashley but takes care of Joey until her sister arrives. Both Ashley and Devon try to resist the attraction they feel. Ashley because of her fear of losing another husband and her fear of his profession. Devon because he is a single part time father who is becoming a full time father and wonders if he can take on any more. Can their fears be reconciled?
March 26, 2014
I loved Ashley and Devon's heartwarming and inspiring story. Gail Gaymer Martin does an excellent job blending many social issues into Ashley and Devon's story that they struggle with. Ashley whose husband died in the war has trouble dealing with Devon's high risk job as a firefighter. Devon is dealing with being divorced, custody issues and not being told his ex wife is mentally ill. I liked The Firefighter's New Family better than Her Valentine Hero, Ashley's sister Neeley's story because it was filled with many more social issues that drew me in and making me feel a part of Ashley's story. I can't wait for the next book in the Sister series.
December 4, 2013
After reading Her Valentine Hero, first in this series, I could hardly wait to read the next one & finally it is here. This story shows how a couple can overcome many issues with past loves, current family and what they can accomplish together. A heartwarming story for all to read.
Read
January 12, 2016"In the second book in the Sisters series, strong characters demonstrate how we should not let fear prevent us from living the life God has planned. Martin is inventive with her offbeat comparison of a family to a puzzle (RT Book Reviews)". 4 stars
Read
December 29, 2014"Harlequin Reader Review
Great book!
a very neat story. With a very surprising beginning. It is super neat to have firefighter as a neighbor.
Great story........you will enjoy it alot" From review posted by an Harlequin.com member, http://www.harlequin.com/storeitem.ht...
Great book!
a very neat story. With a very surprising beginning. It is super neat to have firefighter as a neighbor.
Great story........you will enjoy it alot" From review posted by an Harlequin.com member, http://www.harlequin.com/storeitem.ht...
November 13, 2013
a very neat story. With a very surprising beginning. It is super neat to have firefighter as a neighbor. Great story........you will enjoy it alot
Read
January 12, 2016received 4 stars @ RT Book Reviews
April 13, 2014
I enjoyed Ashley and Devon's story. Sometimes life doesn't go as planned and second chances are needed.
June 26, 2016
Ashley is trapped under a tree until fireman Devon find her. They both are raising a child on their own and have issues to resolve.
Read
September 23, 2017Liked the premise but something about the writing style didn't work for me. There was too much telling rather than showing at times, and I wasn't entirely engaged by the heroine. This was a DNF for me.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews