Early Book Review: Up in Smoke (HotShots) by Annabeth Albert

Up in Smoke is the forth book in the HotShots series by Annabeth Albert. Each can stand on their own, but I really enjoy these so I suggest reading them all anyway. It is currently scheduled for release on April 27 2021. 

Freewheeling smoke jumper Brandt Wilder thrives on adrenaline. He’s never met a parachute he can’t repair or a dangerous situation he couldn’t wrangle his way out of. He’s popular and fun-loving and not at all looking to settle down or form lasting relationships. It’s a lifestyle that’s served him well…right up until the day he finds a baby on his doorstep. Shane Travis is used to putting his country music career—and his own happiness—on hold after his sister rolls through his life. Like last spring when she convinced him to try skydiving for his birthday—and she walked away with the hot parachute instructor. Now he gets to deliver the piece of news that will upend Brandt’s carefree life: he very well might be a dad. Shane’s niece is safe in Brandt’s strong, capable hands, but too many questions remain unanswered. Co-parenting while they sort it out leads to late-night talks, and soul-bearing confessions lead to a most inconvenient attraction. Still, Shane can’t leave this makeshift family behind—even if it means playing house with the one man he can’t resist.

Up in Smoke is a perfect continuation of this series. I thought the two men and a baby was used very well, particularly since neither seemed to have a childhood that would prepare them for this kind or responsibility and situation- not like anyone could really be prepared for it. I liked Brandt's personality- his desire to do right by Jewel, his job, and his reluctance to fall in love were very well balanced. Similarly, Shane's emotional connections and talents had me hoping the best for him from page one. I liked that no one was really the bad guy, and that sexuality and mental illness were just things that were part of the story, discussed in real, frank ways that do not make them talking points but show that they are just part of life. The give and take between Shane and Brandt was engaging, and I liked seeing them come to understand each other and themselves as they figure out parenthood. Building a solid relationship can be hand, parenting can be harder- especially when you do not have the nine months to prepare for it. Combining the two made  for a challenging situation that these two made it through with great success. I hope to see cameos of them in future books.

Up in Smoke is a wonderful read with a balance of heat and sweet.