Wildfire: A Gripping Sequel to Icebreaker by Hannah Grace

Sym’s Spotlight Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Okay, I’m just going to put it out there, Wildfire completely stole my heart. If you’re a sucker for a swoon-worthy romance and characters that you can’t help but root for, this book by Hannah Grace is about to be your new obsession. After absolutely loving Icebreaker, I wasn’t sure how Wildfire could top it... but wow! This book is the perfect mix of steamy moments, heartwarming vulnerability, and characters who will leave you dying for more. Whether you're into summer camp vibes, the found family trope, or just a good slow-burn romance, Wildfire has it all.

This book is EVERYTHING a romance should be: fun, emotional, and filled with characters who feel like real people. We meet Rory (Aurora), our bold and a little chaotic queen, and Russ, the ultimate soft boy hiding behind a grumpy introverted exterior. Their story begins with a one-night stand that was supposed to be just that... until they both end up as counselors at the same summer camp. Oops. Forced proximity? Check. Strict no-dating rules? Check. A summer filled with tension, angst, and stolen moments? You bet!

What makes Wildfire stand out isn’t just the romance (which, seriously, is chef’s kiss beautiful), but how it balances all the fun, flirty vibes with real, raw, heartfelt moments. Both Rory and Russ are dealing with some heavy family baggage, Rory’s caught in the web of parental guilt trips and distance from her sister, whilst Russ is carrying way too much weight from his father’s gambling addiction. These challenges add so much depth to their relationship. Watching them break down walls, lean on each other, and actually talk through things (I know, shocking!) made their connection feel so incredibly real.

Now, let’s talk about Russ for a second. This guy. The shy, blushing, dimpled hockey player who’s equal parts awkward and totally in love with Rory? Absolute perfection. Where can I find a guy like this in real life? I love a confident female lead and a male character who’s just a bit nervous around her. The tension? Off the charts. The banter? A+. Emotional growth? 10/10. Pure perfection.

The book checks all the boxes when it comes to romance tropes: dual POV, summer camp romance, one-night stand turned coworkers turned lovers, grumpy x sunshine (but not in the cliché way), kissing in the rain (because, obviously, it’s a core moment in any romance novel) and found family, which, in my opinion, is the best part of all the Maple Hills books. The friendships, the late-night talks, the camp chaos, it all makes the story feel so immersive and like the perfect escape.

Final thoughts? Wildfire made me feel so much. It’s fun, emotional, and strikes the perfect balance between fluff and angst with just a dash of spice. If you’re a fan of a romance that’s sure to make your heart melt, you need to read this book. Five stars all the way, Hannah Grace, you’ve done it again! Now, if you need me, I’ll be over here rereading all my favorite Russ and Rory moments.