News producer Melissa McGuire usually celebrates her grandmother Nelly's birthday at the buffet at the Bombay Deluxe so she's not sure why Nelly asked to meet at the San Gabriel Hilton. Melissa is also wondering what special event would attract so many women. Turns out it's a bachelor auction. Nelly has a pocketbook full of cash and is determined to buy a date for Melissa. Melissa, who can find her own dates thank you, wants nothing to do with the auction. Grandma is determined and bids on Ryan Blake, one of the famous Bachelor Fireman of San Gabriel.

Ryan, uncomfortable dating a grandmother, convinces Fire Captain Harry Brody to take his place. Harry, having planned the perfect date for the geriatric set, arrives to find Melissa waiting for him. It turns out she's the woman he was instantly attracted to after a brief encounter at the auction. They have a wonderful time but Harry isn't looking for a relationship and Melissa is looking for a poet or artist, not a rugged fireman (however hot he might be). They are convinced they are all wrong for each other. If only Nelly, and fate, felt the same.

THE FIREMAN WHO LOVED ME is a sweet, emotional, and slightly spicy story that will please fans of contemporary romance. This debut novel is a promising start to a new series featuring the Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel. The firefighters are all sexy, honorable, and dedicated. Ms. Bernard has crafted complex back-stories for each of the characters that add depth to the plot. Melissa and Harry's personal lives allow for subplots and secondary characters that strengthen the emotional pull of the story. Melissa and Harry make sense as a couple. I was drawn in by watching their differences pull them apart and bring them together. I look forward to reading more stories featuring the Firefighters of San Gabriel.