“Love at First Campfire” by Engrid Eaves is the second enrapturing installment in the “Rough and Ready Country” series, blending heart-stopping action with heartwarming romance. Set against the majestic backdrop of the Sierra Nevadas, this novel introduces readers to Logan, a dedicated Mountain Search and Rescue Unit Leader, and Jess, a curvy journalist with a heart as big as her ambitions. Their story is a testament to the power of love to heal, challenge, and transform.
Logan is a man who carries the weight of the world on his shoulders. As a leader in the Mountain Search and Rescue Unit, his life is fraught with danger and responsibility. Eaves skillfully portrays Logan’s dedication and the toll it takes on his personal life, presenting a character who is complex and deeply honorable. His vow to avoid distractions, especially relationships, is challenged the moment Jess enters his life, a whirlwind of attraction and vulnerability he hadn’t anticipated.
Jess is a character that many will find relatable and inspiring. Eaves gives her depth and resilience, crafting a character who is not only navigating her attraction to Logan but also confronting her darkest fears. Jess’s journey is one of self-discovery, bravery, and the quest for something more than lust—perhaps even love. Her dynamic with Logan is electric, filled with tension, longing, and a palpable chemistry that Eaves writes with expertise.
The novel shines in its depiction of the rugged Sierra Nevadas, creating a setting that is both beautiful and perilous. The mountains serve as a fitting metaphor for the challenges Jess and Logan face, both in the physical world and in the landscapes of their hearts. Eaves’s descriptive prose transports readers into the wilderness, making them feel every bit of the awe and danger that comes with mountain rescue missions.
“Love at First Campfire” seamlessly continues the captivating “Rough and Ready Country” series by Engrid Eaves, picking up at the picturesque wedding of Alex and Maksim, the beloved couple from the series’ first installment. This time, the spotlight turns to Jess, Alex’s best friend, and Logan, Maksim’s brother, whose undeniable chemistry during a fleeting campfire moment hints at a destined connection.
The plot thickens with a thrilling twist as Jess becomes the target of a vengeful serial killer, a consequence of her courageous reporting on his heinous crimes. Despite its concise format, the novel doesn’t sacrifice depth for brevity; Eaves masterfully crafts a rich narrative that balances burgeoning romance with heart-pounding suspense.
What stands out is Eaves’ exceptional skill in character development and storytelling, achieving a compelling love story complete with a satisfying happily-ever-after within a mere 100 pages. This efficiency in storytelling doesn’t detract from the narrative’s impact; rather, it showcases Eaves’ prowess in creating a fully realized romantic journey within a compact space.
“Love at First Campfire” is more than just a romance; it’s a story about overcoming past hurts and opening oneself to the possibilities of love. Logan’s internal struggle with his worthiness and Jess’s determination to rewrite the rules of their relationship adds layers of emotional depth to their story. Eaves does an excellent job of intertwining their personal growth with their growing love, making their journey toward each other feel earned and authentic.
The novel also touches on themes of family, friendship, and the bonds that tie us to one another. Logan’s relationship with his sister-in-law and Jess’s loyalty to her best friend provide a rich backdrop to the main love story, adding dimension and warmth to the narrative.
As a part of the “Rough and Ready Country” series, “Love at First Campfire” stands out as a steamy, compelling read that balances action, romance, and emotional growth. Eaves has crafted a world where love is as unpredictable and wild as the mountain terrain, where heroes and heroines are flawed but beautiful in their imperfections. For readers looking for an OTT hero, a curvy, determined heroine, and a love story that burns as bright as a campfire, this short story (novella) is a must-read.
