Where There’s Smoke Returns Jan 31, 2026

You may remember Zoe Andrews and Mason Ramsey. If so, you’re in for a surprise.

I’ve reimagined Where There’s Smoke with fresh twists, deeper emotional beats, and a storyline that burns a little hotter. This new edition is the version I always meant to write—and I’m thrilled to share it with you finally.

Whether you’re returning or reading it for the first time, this book brings you straight into the heart of Hammond’s Bend—a small town with its own rhythm, its own rules, and a growing fire no one saw coming.

A Firefighter, a Stranger, and a String of Arsons…

Zoe Andrews is used to handling emergencies. She’s a firefighter, a paramedic, and a protector by nature. But when a string of suspicious fires begins sweeping across her hometown, even Zoe starts to question whether she’s in over her head.

Enter Mason Ramsey—the newest medic on her crew with a calm confidence and something dark behind his eyes. He says he’s here to help. He says he’s one of them.

But Zoe can’t shake the feeling he’s hiding something…And she’s right.

What’s New in This Edition?

If you read the earlier version of Where There’s Smoke, this one brings:-

Stronger romantic tension between Zoe and Mason-

Expanded twists behind Mason’s undercover mission-

Deeper emotional growth for Zoe as she confronts her past and her fear of failure

It’s not just a polish. It’s a true reimagining—with updated scenes, fresh danger, and a version of Zoe that’s more vulnerable, more determined, and more in control of her story.

🗓 Save the Date: January 31, 2026

This is the first full-length book in the Heroes of Hammond’s Bend series, and I can’t wait to start this journey with you.

Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing: - Behind-the-scenes peeks into Zoe & Mason’s partnership - Teaser scenes and quotes - Bonus content just for newsletter subscribers (including that cookie bonus 🍪)

If you’re not already on the list, you can join below. I can promise you that this is NOT a spammy newsletter list. Who has time for that? I'm busy working on book two and beyond for the series!

Tell Me…

Are you a returning reader? Did you meet Zoe (Previously known as Annie) and Mason in the original version? Or is this your first time heading into Hammond’s Bend?

I’d love to know what you’re most excited to read—and what kind of romantic suspense you reach for when you want a story that burns in all the right ways.

Please drop a comment below or come hang out with me over on Facebook, Instagram, and Substack ( https://substack.com/@anniebancroftauthor2025 ) Facebook and Instagram links are below, right next to the email list sign-up for the newsletter.

See you soon—with fire, secrets, and a love worth risking everything for.

,Annie