Review: The Fire Marshal is big and grumpy and mean, but melts for his policeman.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 05 12, 2014
Daryl, aka Mr Cranky Pants, is the Fire Marshall and is gruff, rude and withdrawn.  He thinks nobody likes him and that is fine with him.  His lover betrayed him and he is not going to put himself in a position where he lets someone else close again, ever.  Zach is a policeman who is sick of hook-ups and is looking for long term commitment.  He approaches Daryl because a mutual friend thinks they would be good together.  Zach isn't sure because Daryl is a grumpy cuss that has sour puss down to a fine art.  Against his better judgement he goes to Daryl who shoots him down in his usual fashion - Zach knew that was a bad idea.  So why, when Zach is injured in the line of duty at a fire does Daryl go all caring on his butt? Why does he go to the hospital to make sure Zach is ok and spend lots of time there?  Turns out Daryl is a big ole grumpy pants with everyone...except Zach.  Daryl constantly says the wrong thing and antagonizes everyone so he is constantly holding back but that means inappropriate things slip out.This is a well written story with depth and pace.  The characters are likable and Morticia Knight allows us to look into the relationship and motivations in a way you become invested in the story.  I have a few from the series and have to say I am thoroughly enjoying them.