Finding Spark in “All Fired Up”
There’s something about a sapphic romcom that sets my heart fluttering, and when I stumbled upon “All Fired Up” by the talented K.E. Hinton, I couldn’t resist diving in. The promise of an opposites-attract story featuring a fire scientist and a firefighter drew me in instantly, but it was the emotional depth and relatable characters that kept me engaged from the first page to the last.
At the heart of the novel is Nic, a bi/lesbian fire scientist who has recently returned to Seattle for a temporary gig, all the while harboring a long-standing crush on her radiant best friend, Skylar. Skylar, the quintessential free spirit with a touch of recklessness, is a social media influencer and psychologist embarking on a whimsical journey to Fiji to start a farm. But it’s not just her enchanting plans that throw a wrench in Nic’s heart—it’s the arrival of Kira, a hot firefighter who quickly becomes an integral part of their close-knit friend group.
As Nic juggles her feelings toward Kira and her history with Skylar, I found myself drawn into the complexities of navigating romantic and platonic love. I was particularly struck by how Hinton skillfully avoided the love triangle trope that could have easily turned cliché. Instead, Nic’s struggle felt authentic and relatable, capturing the messy, tangled threads of love and friendship. It’s a narrative that encourages readers to reflect on where their loyalties lie—an exploration of the heart that felt refreshingly honest.
Hinton’s writing style embraces a cozy, warm atmosphere, making “All Fired Up” feel like a comforting hug. Though I wouldn’t necessarily categorize it as a laugh-out-loud comedy, I found it to be delightful in its heartwarming moments and charming interpersonal dynamics. The steamy encounters—particularly the alluring dressing room scene and the tension-filled "one bed" moment—were artfully executed, proving that spice and sentiment can coexist beautifully without venturing into cheesiness.
However, I did wish for a bit more depth in the characterization of Nic and Kira’s friends. While the core duo shines brightly, I felt some of the supporting cast lacked development, leaving questions like Willow’s secret lingering in my mind. Additionally, the scheming against Skylar’s elaborate farewell party seemed somewhat half-hearted, almost as if it faded into the background too quickly.
That said, "All Fired Up" is undeniably a charming escapade that captures the joy of queer romance without resorting to formulaic tropes, all while keeping me smiling throughout my reading experience. Its lighthearted nature makes it a wonderful pick for anyone looking for a delightful escape, and I think readers who appreciate nuanced storytelling within LGBTQ+ narratives will find this book particularly enjoyable.
Ultimately, reading “All Fired Up” was like sharing a cozy afternoon with a close friend, filled with laughter, heartfelt confessions, and the palpable thrill of unexpected love. If you’re seeking a romantic yarn threaded with warmth and spice, then K.E. Hinton’s latest surely deserves a spot on your bookshelf!