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Fire the Water: A Second Chance Romance
Poppy Rodriguez never asked to be a symbol or to start a movement. Her life lacked purpose and direction without her sister. She was a victim of assault. And most victims don’t get retribution—let alone revenge. But sometimes accidents aren’t accidental. Neither are dreams. And to think, all it took was one fire, and one night of courage where she found her voice.
Zane Armstrong only had one path in life—swim his way to a gold medal at the Olympics. But turning your back on your family and falling in love changes people. He couldn’t help it. The second he crossed paths with Poppy Rodriguez, life just found new meaning. But are all love stories meant to be—especially when some mistakes are unforgivable?
Pouring ashes in the most beautiful place on earth may have never been the plan for Poppy and Zane. But neither was the possibility of rekindling their love. After all, their lives were defined by unforeseen tragedies and pain. It’s why their trip into the Grand Canyon was supposed to be a way to say goodbye—until it became an adventure, and a second chance at falling in love.
Zane Armstrong only had one path in life—swim his way to a gold medal at the Olympics. But turning your back on your family and falling in love changes people. He couldn’t help it. The second he crossed paths with Poppy Rodriguez, life just found new meaning. But are all love stories meant to be—especially when some mistakes are unforgivable?
Pouring ashes in the most beautiful place on earth may have never been the plan for Poppy and Zane. But neither was the possibility of rekindling their love. After all, their lives were defined by unforeseen tragedies and pain. It’s why their trip into the Grand Canyon was supposed to be a way to say goodbye—until it became an adventure, and a second chance at falling in love.
- GenresAmazon
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 6, 2025
8 people are currently reading
43 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
November 17, 2025
From the very first page, this story took hold of my heart and never let go. This is a book that goes beyond the typical romance genre, digging deep into themes of trauma, healing, love, and what it means to be truly human. As a mom of daughters, a counselor, a parent of someone with special needs, and simply as a woman, this book resonated with me in so many profound ways that I find myself at a loss for words to do it justice.
The characters are beautifully crafted, with a focus on authenticity and resilience. The female main character is one of the most bad-ass, unapologetically strong women I’ve encountered in fiction. She’s faced so much hardship, yet she still rises with a determination that is both inspiring and humbling. And her journey—of overcoming trauma, finding healing, and embracing love—is portrayed with such depth and realism that it feels almost like a personal journey for the reader, too.
What also stood out to me was the portrayal of the male main character, who, in his sweet, supportive, and steady way, embodies what it means to be a real man. In a world where toxic masculinity often gets the spotlight, it’s refreshing and uplifting to see a man who is patient, kind, and understanding—a man who knows when to stand strong and when to step back and give space for the woman he loves to heal and grow.
The themes of *no means no* and personal boundaries are handled with such grace and importance in this book. It’s not just a throwaway line; it’s a powerful, recurring theme that gives voice to the importance of consent, respect, and autonomy, which is so necessary in today’s world. The way this is interwoven with the larger narrative only strengthens the book’s emotional impact.
One of the most striking things about this story is its portrayal of the human soul’s resiliency. No matter the hardships or traumas the characters face, they show that healing is possible, and love—true, deep, soul-affirming love—is a part of that healing process. This book has a way of getting right under your skin and staying with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
I can’t recommend this book enough. It is one of those rare gems that touches the human soul, uplifts the spirit, and reminds you of the power of love and resilience. If you’re looking for a book that goes beyond the surface, this is it. It’s an easy five stars from me.
December 17, 2025
What a gripping tear jerker off a story that will stay with me. I don’t care for men who make me cry —unless it’s an author. Bravo, Timothy, for delving deep into this story and giving us, your audience, a glimpse into a world that shows us that men are thoughtful, kind, self-reflective, and meaningful. It’s not everyday we get to read this type of book…and boy, let me tell you how refreshing it was to read something so incredibly full-bodied like this from a man’s point of view and I can say wholeheartedly that I will be reading everything Timothy puts out from now on. If he writes it, I’m going to read it. I cannot wait to see where your author journey takes you.
December 9, 2025
This was a really good book. It was touching and heart-wrenching. A story about a young woman ( poppy ) that loses so much because of others. It's a story about Zane, a young man who is going through his own grief and is in love with Poppy. Sometimes, though, life throws us curve ball after curve ball, and it's up to us to decide if we are going to let it destroy us or if we are going to stand and fight. Poppy, after going through some tragedies, decides she's going to fight. She isn't going to let someone else's actions keep her down. This is a story of love, heartbreak, second chances, and finding one's self in the middle of life's chaos. It is a tear jerker, but it is a five-star read. Sadly, there are so many people who can relate to this story, and Timothy Kyle did a great job writing it. This is a book that I highly recommend and will be recommending to my friends.
April 30, 2026
This story tackles the theme of sexual assault, but in the most caring way. We all have, or know someone who has been sexually assaulted. That's the sad part of this world, for both men and women, but ESPECIALLY women. In this story, the FMC loses so much of herself from tragedy after tragedy. However, the MMC helps her climb out of it. While thid is a contemporary second chance romance, it's sooooo much more than that. It's friendship. It's healing. It's fighting. There is representation of disability, PTSD, and trauma. But the takeaway, this story is absolutely beautiful. FIRE. THE. WATER.
December 7, 2025
What an absolutely beautiful story. This was such an emotional heart grabbing story. It pulls you in right from the beginning. There’s just no putting this down once you get started. It grabs you in so many ways. I could relate, and felt such a deep understanding, what there went through, and his they grew and came together.
This is my first time reading this author and I’m so enthralled with hire beautiful it is. I well most definitely be reading other works by them.
This is my first time reading this author and I’m so enthralled with hire beautiful it is. I well most definitely be reading other works by them.
March 26, 2026
This has it all.
This story has just what I needed. Love, loss, redemption. Things happen to people sometimes that change them, some for the better and some that take away from their happiness. These characters went through it all the way. There’s sexual trauma, loss, love, some spicy scenes. It has it all and a red dipsy doo to top it off. Really, I love mine. “Fire the Water.”
This story has just what I needed. Love, loss, redemption. Things happen to people sometimes that change them, some for the better and some that take away from their happiness. These characters went through it all the way. There’s sexual trauma, loss, love, some spicy scenes. It has it all and a red dipsy doo to top it off. Really, I love mine. “Fire the Water.”
December 6, 2025
No is a sentence. That one little word should mean so much but to so many it doesnt matter. And when they take that word, that choice and throw it away it ruins so many lives. This book, shows you the strength of that one word. It shows you how you can fight, how you are not alone.
Poppy is a fiery girl. Shes one that lived her life full of love even though she has felt so much heartache. Dealing with SA and losing her sister. She goes to the Grand Canyon to say goodbye to her. But this trip is so much more than saying goodbye its a trip full of healing. And the author shows you this healing in every single way possible.
Zane, the sweet, considerate, competitive and passionate boy. The one destined to be a gold medal swimmer in the Olympics. A boy so in love with Poppy but every single turn pushes them away. The Grand Canyon is where he says goodbye to his brother, but its more when his brother and Poppys sister bring Zane and Poppy together. To let them show the love they have for one another and to heal.
Fire The Water is more than just a story. Fire The Water is healing for anyone who has suffered. It’s one of the most emotionally charged books I have ever read. It does more than to have ypu just read about someone heartache and suffering. It completely absorbs you into their world and leave you crying with each word spoken. It helps you mend that little piece of you that is broken alongside of the characters. It shows you that life isn't over you just need to continue to fight and that someone is always fighting alongside of you.
Poppy is a fiery girl. Shes one that lived her life full of love even though she has felt so much heartache. Dealing with SA and losing her sister. She goes to the Grand Canyon to say goodbye to her. But this trip is so much more than saying goodbye its a trip full of healing. And the author shows you this healing in every single way possible.
Zane, the sweet, considerate, competitive and passionate boy. The one destined to be a gold medal swimmer in the Olympics. A boy so in love with Poppy but every single turn pushes them away. The Grand Canyon is where he says goodbye to his brother, but its more when his brother and Poppys sister bring Zane and Poppy together. To let them show the love they have for one another and to heal.
Fire The Water is more than just a story. Fire The Water is healing for anyone who has suffered. It’s one of the most emotionally charged books I have ever read. It does more than to have ypu just read about someone heartache and suffering. It completely absorbs you into their world and leave you crying with each word spoken. It helps you mend that little piece of you that is broken alongside of the characters. It shows you that life isn't over you just need to continue to fight and that someone is always fighting alongside of you.
February 20, 2026
I absolutely LOVED this book.
Fire The Water is one of those rare stories that doesn’t just entertain you—it pulls you under, holds you there, and changes you before letting you breathe again.
Poppy and Zane felt so real it almost hurt. Neither of them is perfect, and that’s exactly what makes their journey so powerful. Poppy’s strength in the face of trauma and loss was inspiring without ever feeling unrealistic. Her voice, her pain, and her courage stayed with me long after I finished the last page. And Zane… watching him evolve from someone so focused on one path to someone forced to confront his past, his mistakes, and his heart was incredibly moving.
What Timothy Kyle does so well is capture the messy, complicated nature of love and healing. This isn’t a fairytale romance—it’s raw, emotional, and honest. The Grand Canyon setting added this beautiful, almost symbolic backdrop to their journey of letting go, forgiveness, and rediscovery. Every moment felt intentional, and the emotional depth was absolutely unforgettable.
This book made me feel everything—grief, anger, hope, heartbreak, and ultimately, peace. There were moments that made my chest ache and others that made me smile through tears. It’s the kind of story that reminds you love isn’t always easy, but it can still be worth fighting for.
If you love second chance romance, emotionally charged stories, and characters that feel like real people, Fire The Water is a must-read.
This book completely wrecked me in the best possible way—and I’m still thinking about it.
Fire The Water is one of those rare stories that doesn’t just entertain you—it pulls you under, holds you there, and changes you before letting you breathe again.
Poppy and Zane felt so real it almost hurt. Neither of them is perfect, and that’s exactly what makes their journey so powerful. Poppy’s strength in the face of trauma and loss was inspiring without ever feeling unrealistic. Her voice, her pain, and her courage stayed with me long after I finished the last page. And Zane… watching him evolve from someone so focused on one path to someone forced to confront his past, his mistakes, and his heart was incredibly moving.
What Timothy Kyle does so well is capture the messy, complicated nature of love and healing. This isn’t a fairytale romance—it’s raw, emotional, and honest. The Grand Canyon setting added this beautiful, almost symbolic backdrop to their journey of letting go, forgiveness, and rediscovery. Every moment felt intentional, and the emotional depth was absolutely unforgettable.
This book made me feel everything—grief, anger, hope, heartbreak, and ultimately, peace. There were moments that made my chest ache and others that made me smile through tears. It’s the kind of story that reminds you love isn’t always easy, but it can still be worth fighting for.
If you love second chance romance, emotionally charged stories, and characters that feel like real people, Fire The Water is a must-read.
This book completely wrecked me in the best possible way—and I’m still thinking about it.
January 3, 2026
Talk about a book that will break you into pieces, but will put you back together. And let me tell you, Timothy does it beautifully. This story is written so well and I was hooked, I couldn’t put it down and I was up in 2am because I had to finish it.
This book covers a lot of tough topics that are covered; grief, PTSD, and trauma from SA. But when I tell you they are covered in so well and done delicately, but in a way your heart breaks for Poppy and then triumph for her when she finds her voice.
Poppy has been through a lot in her life and she is still struggling with what happened all those years ago. But when she meets Zane she wants to heal and for things to change so she can allow him close. These two hit it off right away and they have amazing chemistry. But these two go through hell in order to be with one another, it’s one thing after another.
Together they have endured so much pain and grief, but together they have healed, they grew, and found love within one another. It was easy, but they believed in one another. Poppy was such a sweet and kind soul, she had strength inside her she didn’t know, she had it for everyone else, but forgot she had it for herself also.
Fire the Water consumes you from in the inside out and sinks inside your heart. You can’t help but feel the emotions from the words on the pages and the grief, but then you also can’t help but feel the love and healing. It’s a complete circle from beginning to end and it’s beautiful!
This book covers a lot of tough topics that are covered; grief, PTSD, and trauma from SA. But when I tell you they are covered in so well and done delicately, but in a way your heart breaks for Poppy and then triumph for her when she finds her voice.
Poppy has been through a lot in her life and she is still struggling with what happened all those years ago. But when she meets Zane she wants to heal and for things to change so she can allow him close. These two hit it off right away and they have amazing chemistry. But these two go through hell in order to be with one another, it’s one thing after another.
Together they have endured so much pain and grief, but together they have healed, they grew, and found love within one another. It was easy, but they believed in one another. Poppy was such a sweet and kind soul, she had strength inside her she didn’t know, she had it for everyone else, but forgot she had it for herself also.
Fire the Water consumes you from in the inside out and sinks inside your heart. You can’t help but feel the emotions from the words on the pages and the grief, but then you also can’t help but feel the love and healing. It’s a complete circle from beginning to end and it’s beautiful!
December 15, 2025
Fire The Water by Timothy Kyle is a Second Chance, Contemporary Adult Romance following Poppy Rodriguez and Zane Armstrong. 🚩This is for readers 18 years and/or older as it has mature content and not suitable for underage readers. There are dark themes that can be triggering so please check out the content warning before you dive in 🚩
My thoughts 💭
Wow. This book broke me but then pieced me right back together so beautifully. This is the first book I read from Timothy Kyle (he currently has two books out, three with this one) and I am an instant fan. This book has everything, it touches on someone with special needs, grief, PTSD, and traumatic events. But most importantly it touches on healing, growth, love, and forgiveness. The love Zane has for Poppy is instant and just grows stronger throughout the years. The strength Poppy has to overcome all the pain and grief she has endured is inspiring. Timothy Kyle writes about the trauma she experienced so respectfully and details the events carefully, especially for readers who may have experienced something similar and I can appreciate that. This is a beautiful and very relatable book and I honestly cannot recommend this more.
✨I would like to thank author Timothy Kyle and Naughty Nook Pr, for the opportunity to read and review Fire The Water.
My thoughts 💭
Wow. This book broke me but then pieced me right back together so beautifully. This is the first book I read from Timothy Kyle (he currently has two books out, three with this one) and I am an instant fan. This book has everything, it touches on someone with special needs, grief, PTSD, and traumatic events. But most importantly it touches on healing, growth, love, and forgiveness. The love Zane has for Poppy is instant and just grows stronger throughout the years. The strength Poppy has to overcome all the pain and grief she has endured is inspiring. Timothy Kyle writes about the trauma she experienced so respectfully and details the events carefully, especially for readers who may have experienced something similar and I can appreciate that. This is a beautiful and very relatable book and I honestly cannot recommend this more.
✨I would like to thank author Timothy Kyle and Naughty Nook Pr, for the opportunity to read and review Fire The Water.
January 26, 2026
Fire The Water is a second chance romance featuring Paulina Poppy Rodriguez and Zane Armstrong.
This book is mostly set in the present however it flips back and forth looking at when Poppy and Zane met, and how their relationship evolved over a few years. Kyle has crafted a beautiful and moving story about these two young people who seem to be repeatedly pushed together and pulled apart through traumatic events.
Poppy has endured too much in her short life, but fortunately she has a loving and supportive family. While life has tried to beat her down, she is like a phoenix who rises from the ashes and unintentionally becomes a beacon of hope, perseverance and bravery. This book is both her story as a survivor, as well as her and Zane's journey to overcome grief and find a way to move forward. Their path from heartbreak to healing is one your won't soon forget.
I found the characters to be relatable and the story to be both heartfelt and engaging. I was quickly pulled into the story and taken on an emotional journey complete with anger, frustration, joy and tears. This is the third book I have read by the author and he never disappoints. His work is quite moving and memorable. I also found this book to be inspirational. I would encourage you to pick up a copy and keep the tissues at the ready.
This book is mostly set in the present however it flips back and forth looking at when Poppy and Zane met, and how their relationship evolved over a few years. Kyle has crafted a beautiful and moving story about these two young people who seem to be repeatedly pushed together and pulled apart through traumatic events.
Poppy has endured too much in her short life, but fortunately she has a loving and supportive family. While life has tried to beat her down, she is like a phoenix who rises from the ashes and unintentionally becomes a beacon of hope, perseverance and bravery. This book is both her story as a survivor, as well as her and Zane's journey to overcome grief and find a way to move forward. Their path from heartbreak to healing is one your won't soon forget.
I found the characters to be relatable and the story to be both heartfelt and engaging. I was quickly pulled into the story and taken on an emotional journey complete with anger, frustration, joy and tears. This is the third book I have read by the author and he never disappoints. His work is quite moving and memorable. I also found this book to be inspirational. I would encourage you to pick up a copy and keep the tissues at the ready.
December 6, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Fire the Water
Sassy + Feral + Actually Accurate Review
Fire the Water walked into my life like, “Hey bestie, hope you weren’t planning on emotional stability today,” and honestly? It succeeded.
Poppy Rodriguez is a survivor with the kind of quiet strength that makes you want to burn the whole world down for her, and Zane Armstrong…
Listen. That man is a walking apology arc with Olympic shoulders and a talent for making you scream into a pillow. The way he tries to untangle guilt, ambition, and the mess he left behind? Feral. Unhinged. Delicious.
This story deals with serious trauma (not shown on-page) healing, recovery, reclaiming your voice and Timothy Kyle treats it with real care. Not sanitized. Not sensationalized. Just raw, human, and gut-punch honest.
Now here’s where I get spicy:
The timeline jumps? Yeah, they had me flipping pages like I was solving a cold case. A few slower sections dragged just enough for me to check the time like,
“Sir… where are we emotionally and why?”
BUT when this book hits, it hits like a sledgehammer dipped in feelings.
It’s emotional, intimate, and built around the kind of second-chance love that isn’t easy or tidy but absolutely worth fighting for.
This is a story about courage, survival, and choosing yourself, even when the world tries to silence you. And the romance? Soft, steady, and full of earned moments instead of cheap ones.
Four stars because it broke me open in the best way…
but the timeline chaos kept me from giving it the full feral five.
Still:
Poppy and Zane live rent-free in my head, and I’m not asking them to leave!!!
Sassy + Feral + Actually Accurate Review
Fire the Water walked into my life like, “Hey bestie, hope you weren’t planning on emotional stability today,” and honestly? It succeeded.
Poppy Rodriguez is a survivor with the kind of quiet strength that makes you want to burn the whole world down for her, and Zane Armstrong…
Listen. That man is a walking apology arc with Olympic shoulders and a talent for making you scream into a pillow. The way he tries to untangle guilt, ambition, and the mess he left behind? Feral. Unhinged. Delicious.
This story deals with serious trauma (not shown on-page) healing, recovery, reclaiming your voice and Timothy Kyle treats it with real care. Not sanitized. Not sensationalized. Just raw, human, and gut-punch honest.
Now here’s where I get spicy:
The timeline jumps? Yeah, they had me flipping pages like I was solving a cold case. A few slower sections dragged just enough for me to check the time like,
“Sir… where are we emotionally and why?”
BUT when this book hits, it hits like a sledgehammer dipped in feelings.
It’s emotional, intimate, and built around the kind of second-chance love that isn’t easy or tidy but absolutely worth fighting for.
This is a story about courage, survival, and choosing yourself, even when the world tries to silence you. And the romance? Soft, steady, and full of earned moments instead of cheap ones.
Four stars because it broke me open in the best way…
but the timeline chaos kept me from giving it the full feral five.
Still:
Poppy and Zane live rent-free in my head, and I’m not asking them to leave!!!
December 3, 2025
Absolutely touching and deeply emotional...this book truly reaches deep into so many areas including love, trauma, fear, and healing.
Learning about all that Poppy (FMC) has endured...from being adopted at a young age after her real parents abandoned her, growing up with a loving big (adopted) sister who would walk through fire for her and a brother (also adopted) with special needs and a heart of gold...to the sexual trauma she faced as a teenager...to trying to heal and conquer the fears she was then left with; Poppy is truly a character whom many of us can relate to in so many ways...
...and meeting Zane (MMC)...a sweet, smart, and sexy Olympian-in-Training...Poppy truly finds a prince whom is willing to not only accept her scars but who also wants to help her heal...and to show her what feeling safe and loved truly feels like.
Together, both Zane and Poppy face many struggles...including losing both her older sister and his older brother tragically...but it's the lessons they both learn together and the journey to finding what they both never realized they needed in one another that matters most.
Absolutely fantastic and highly recommend, be sure to check out "Fire the Water" by Timothy Kyle; coming soon!!
Learning about all that Poppy (FMC) has endured...from being adopted at a young age after her real parents abandoned her, growing up with a loving big (adopted) sister who would walk through fire for her and a brother (also adopted) with special needs and a heart of gold...to the sexual trauma she faced as a teenager...to trying to heal and conquer the fears she was then left with; Poppy is truly a character whom many of us can relate to in so many ways...
...and meeting Zane (MMC)...a sweet, smart, and sexy Olympian-in-Training...Poppy truly finds a prince whom is willing to not only accept her scars but who also wants to help her heal...and to show her what feeling safe and loved truly feels like.
Together, both Zane and Poppy face many struggles...including losing both her older sister and his older brother tragically...but it's the lessons they both learn together and the journey to finding what they both never realized they needed in one another that matters most.
Absolutely fantastic and highly recommend, be sure to check out "Fire the Water" by Timothy Kyle; coming soon!!
November 24, 2025
I absolutely fell in love with this story! Timothy Kyle has a way of creating characters that are so real, so raw, and so heartbreakingly human that you can’t help but be completely swept up in their journey. Poppy’s strength, resilience, and vulnerability had me rooting for her from page one, and Zane’s struggle to reconcile love, ambition, and past mistakes made him utterly captivating.
The second-chance romance between them is beautiful, tender, and achingly emotional. Every scene whether full of quiet intimacy, heart-stopping tension, or gut-punching reflection kept me completely engaged. The way their story unfolds, filled with love, pain, and growth, feels utterly earned and deeply moving.
This book isn’t just a romance; it’s a story about healing, courage, and finding love when you least expect it. Timothy Kyle’s writing is immersive and compelling he has this amazing talent for capturing your attention and refusing to let go. I devoured every page and couldn’t put it down. This was such an emotional, passionate read that left me smiling and sighing in equal measure.
December 6, 2025
Fire the Water is emotional without feeling heavy just to be heavy. It follows two people who have been through real loss, real fear, and real healing, and it treats those experiences with honesty.
Poppy has been surviving for a long time. Adoption, abandonment, trauma, and slowly learning what safety feels like again, her story is steady, believable, and easy to connect with. Zane meets her where she is. He doesn’t rush her or try to turn her pain into a project. He’s patient, supportive, and genuinely cares.
They both carry grief, and the story shows them figuring out how to move forward without pretending it’s simple. Their relationship feels calm, safe, and earned.
Some timeline jumps slowed the pace and made a few sections feel stretched out, which kept it from being a full 5 for me. But when the story hits its emotional points, it does so honestly.
A solid 4 out of 5 for a thoughtful, sincere book about loss, healing, and finding someone who makes you feel secure.
~Thank you too Booked PR & Timothy Kyle for this arc 🫶🏼
Poppy has been surviving for a long time. Adoption, abandonment, trauma, and slowly learning what safety feels like again, her story is steady, believable, and easy to connect with. Zane meets her where she is. He doesn’t rush her or try to turn her pain into a project. He’s patient, supportive, and genuinely cares.
They both carry grief, and the story shows them figuring out how to move forward without pretending it’s simple. Their relationship feels calm, safe, and earned.
Some timeline jumps slowed the pace and made a few sections feel stretched out, which kept it from being a full 5 for me. But when the story hits its emotional points, it does so honestly.
A solid 4 out of 5 for a thoughtful, sincere book about loss, healing, and finding someone who makes you feel secure.
~Thank you too Booked PR & Timothy Kyle for this arc 🫶🏼
December 5, 2025
I have no words to describe what the book made me feel. There are so many quotes of this book that I highlighted during this read that I may just take up book annotations.
With this book I RAGED and felt DISGUSTED. I felt the FEAR, the ANGUISH, the UNWILLINGNESS, and the UNWORTHINESS.
Despite all those strong negative emotions, those emotions are not what stood out to me.
I am not sure what inspired Tim to write this book. All I can say is I have NEVER, I mean NEVER EVER reacted to a book like I did with “Fire the Water”.
I have never felt more SEEN or felt more LOVED and CHERISHED all at the same time. I can even say I felt SAFE! SAFE just by reading one amazing book.
So…
Yes I cried! Tim sure did get a video of it. (Sorry but not sorry).
There is a particular scene in this book where a young girl named Isa appears. All I can say is THANK YOU Tim.
So with that said…
I am Leslie, I CHOOSE FIRE 🔥!!!!!
With this book I RAGED and felt DISGUSTED. I felt the FEAR, the ANGUISH, the UNWILLINGNESS, and the UNWORTHINESS.
Despite all those strong negative emotions, those emotions are not what stood out to me.
I am not sure what inspired Tim to write this book. All I can say is I have NEVER, I mean NEVER EVER reacted to a book like I did with “Fire the Water”.
I have never felt more SEEN or felt more LOVED and CHERISHED all at the same time. I can even say I felt SAFE! SAFE just by reading one amazing book.
So…
Yes I cried! Tim sure did get a video of it. (Sorry but not sorry).
There is a particular scene in this book where a young girl named Isa appears. All I can say is THANK YOU Tim.
So with that said…
I am Leslie, I CHOOSE FIRE 🔥!!!!!
November 21, 2025
This Second-Chance Romance won first place in my heart!! Although this is a new author, he wrote with such volubility and love and respect, you can’t help but fall in love with the story. It took me a little bit to understand the time jumps, but once I got into the story, I understood it perfectly fine. This book has a huge focus on SA and SV but it does not appear on page. It is written with such kindness. Although a romance, it goes much further than that. It is trauma, healing, understanding, and kindness. I also love that it has a person with special needs as a huge character. All characters are complex, full-formed, and inspiring. This will be a book I come back to time and time again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review honestly and voluntarily.
@completelybookedPR & @timothykyleauthor
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review honestly and voluntarily.
@completelybookedPR & @timothykyleauthor
November 24, 2025
The Tree House by Timothy Kyle is one of my top books of all time, I had very high expectations for Fire the Water. And he didn't disappoint me at all.
Taking a topic that some are shamed by and others think is taboo. (Which neither is true.) And turning it into a journey of courage, self-worth, and healing was definitely an eye opener. Reading about Poppys videos could really help some get through a life changing experience.
And being a Phoenix raised girl, we went to the Grand Canyon a lot. The way Poppy and Zane described it was spot on.
Fire The Water is a heartbreaking, soul clenching second chance romance. That will make you cry, laugh, scream, but not be able to put the book down. They are discussing hard topics, so please check your trigger warnings.
Once again, Timothy Kyle has written a book that can relate to the real world. And will be on my top recommendation list.
Taking a topic that some are shamed by and others think is taboo. (Which neither is true.) And turning it into a journey of courage, self-worth, and healing was definitely an eye opener. Reading about Poppys videos could really help some get through a life changing experience.
And being a Phoenix raised girl, we went to the Grand Canyon a lot. The way Poppy and Zane described it was spot on.
Fire The Water is a heartbreaking, soul clenching second chance romance. That will make you cry, laugh, scream, but not be able to put the book down. They are discussing hard topics, so please check your trigger warnings.
Once again, Timothy Kyle has written a book that can relate to the real world. And will be on my top recommendation list.
December 7, 2025
Fire the water is an emotional story that grabs at your heart strings from the very starts and keeps a tight hold on them through the whole story grab your Kleenex for this read. You will
Suffer right along with the characters it you will also heal with them too.
Poppy is a survivor with the quiet strength that doesn’t roar like a lion instead it slowly creeps into every part of you right off the pages and if you have ever been through what she has or your a moma bear you will find yourself wanting to do anything you can to dry her tears and tell her it’s gonna be okay the same way you wish someone had for you.
This story maybe trigger for some please protect your heart when your read this one and check the trigger warnings
Suffer right along with the characters it you will also heal with them too.
Poppy is a survivor with the quiet strength that doesn’t roar like a lion instead it slowly creeps into every part of you right off the pages and if you have ever been through what she has or your a moma bear you will find yourself wanting to do anything you can to dry her tears and tell her it’s gonna be okay the same way you wish someone had for you.
This story maybe trigger for some please protect your heart when your read this one and check the trigger warnings
November 29, 2025
Absolutely loved this book.
Poppy is sweet but doesn’t take crap from anyone. She went through something horrific and dealt with it the best way she could. After losing her sister she was lost.
Zane a swimming champ who lost his brother and carried the guilt. He was sweet and kind hearted.
They meet and hit it off. She takes her sisters advice and had Zane along with her. The way their relationship grew was perfect. The way she took her trauma and made it into something to help others it was truly awe inspiring to read. Their love story truly was an amazing one.
Poppy is sweet but doesn’t take crap from anyone. She went through something horrific and dealt with it the best way she could. After losing her sister she was lost.
Zane a swimming champ who lost his brother and carried the guilt. He was sweet and kind hearted.
They meet and hit it off. She takes her sisters advice and had Zane along with her. The way their relationship grew was perfect. The way she took her trauma and made it into something to help others it was truly awe inspiring to read. Their love story truly was an amazing one.
December 8, 2025
I was one of the lucky ones to be asked to be a beta for this book. It grabbed me by my emotions and took me for one hell of a rollercoaster. As a survivor of the situation that is one of the focal points of this book I can say Timothy dove into a difficult and traumatic subject and wrote a beautiful story of not only one coming to terms with what happened to them but finding the inner strength and fire to fight and help give others a voice. Also finding healing and learning to love again after said trauma. I couldn't be more proud of him and this book! It is a 100% MUST READ!
November 17, 2025
Wow! What a book!! I always love a second chance book, but this one has so much more!!! Poppy is so brave to be able to speak out on what happened to her, and through her videos, she helps others do the same. I love the idea of Fire the Water as a foundation. I also enjoyed all the beautiful descriptions of Poppy & Zane’s trip to the Grand Canyon. I have never been, but I can just image the beauty. “I chose fire!”
December 9, 2025
This books was absolutely amazing! It took some time to finish due to work. But if I had it my way it would’ve been finished in a day.
Truly an amazing story. It touched me in many ways, and definitely had me in my feels.
I believe I have a little poppy in me.
Years ago I chose fire.
I was only 15 but waited years and years.
Thank you for allowing me to read this story.
I truly enjoyed the relationship between Poppy and Zane.
Truly an amazing story. It touched me in many ways, and definitely had me in my feels.
I believe I have a little poppy in me.
Years ago I chose fire.
I was only 15 but waited years and years.
Thank you for allowing me to read this story.
I truly enjoyed the relationship between Poppy and Zane.
December 17, 2025
This is a second chance romance that will have you in tears by the end. It was so heart felt & warming. I didn't know what to expect going into this book, but I was not disappointed. The story is dual POV and follows Poppy & Zane and jumps back & fourth between the past and present. Check your trigger warnings as it does reference violence, assault, & sexual assault. Protective MMC. First love. Found family. One bed. Such a beautiful story, worth the read if you haven't already!
January 11, 2026
Timothy Kyle delivers once again with a beautifully written story rich in passion, emotion, and real-life tragedy. From the very first page, the narrative pulls you in—shattering your heart before patiently piecing it back together, chapter by chapter. The female lead’s journey is especially compelling as she discovers her strength, voice, and resilience in the face of adversity, making her growth both powerful and deeply heartwarming to witness.
March 11, 2026
This story is a compelling and beautifully crafted journey of resilience, love, and second chances. Poppy Rodriguez’s path from trauma to empowerment is portrayed with sensitivity and depth, while Zane Armstrong’s struggle between ambition, love, and past mistakes adds rich emotional complexity. The Grand Canyon provides a stunning and symbolic backdrop, enhancing the story’s themes of closure, healing, and rekindled love. Engaging, heartfelt, and unforgettable
November 19, 2025
ARC review - 3.5/5 - I enjoyed the majority of the book but I found the timeline really disjointed. I also found some parts a little slower than others. That said, I loved Jett and so happy he was part of the story. It was overall an emotional read and I think was a beautiful way to bring light to a lot of important issues, but I just didn’t get as invested as I had hoped.
November 24, 2025
This is my 2nd ARC from this author and I can't wait to read more. This book is not just a second chance romance, its also so much more, something deeper. This book is the story a lot of individuals have lived and the inspiration they need to FIRE THE WATER! I hope you give this book a chance and choose fire!
December 7, 2025
I first want to thank the author for letting me ARC read this book.
I overall thoroughly enjoyed this book. The FMC poppy has such a strong and beautiful persona. Wonderful character growth.
This book was the perfect palette cleanser for me. It had the perfect amount of sadness with growth.
You do need to pay close attention in the book though with the jumping back and forth in time. There was a few times I would have to flip back and forth in the book to remind me where you were in each timeline.
**4/5⭐️**
I overall thoroughly enjoyed this book. The FMC poppy has such a strong and beautiful persona. Wonderful character growth.
This book was the perfect palette cleanser for me. It had the perfect amount of sadness with growth.
You do need to pay close attention in the book though with the jumping back and forth in time. There was a few times I would have to flip back and forth in the book to remind me where you were in each timeline.
**4/5⭐️**
December 11, 2025
Here, we have a story about strength and bravery, respect and understanding. I couldn’t help but fall in love with Poppy and Zane (and so many of the smaller characters). They both go through so much that I went through a rollercoaster of emotions. This is definitely a story that will stick with me for a very long time. It’s a must-read, but check the triggers.
No is a full sentence.
No is a full sentence.
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