Status Dramaticus by Stephani Hecht
EMS Heat, Book 13
eXtasy Books
Gay Contemporary
ISBN 978-1-77111-119-5
Reviewed by Cassie

Dakota is new to the Flint EMS department, and already he has the unflattering nickname of Status Dramaticus, a name he considers totally unfair. Just because he’s crashed the rig a few times, had a big, public breakup with a firefighter, and tends to stumble into trouble constantly doesn’t make him dramatic. When he meets sexy cop Charlie at the scene of another one of his disasters, Dakota is sure he’s made the worst impression ever.

Police detective Charlie has never been the type of guy to settle down. He knows he’s attractive, and he uses his good looks to his advantage. Then he meets walking disaster Dakota. Against his will, Charlie finds himself attracted to the cute paramedic, and before he knows it he’s considering changing his love ‘em and leave ‘em ways. Unfortunately, Dakota’s knack for getting into dangerous situations might end their relationship before it begins…

Status Dramaticus is a quick, cute tale of a what happens when a guy who can’t seem to catch a break meets one who always seems to get what he wants. Dakota is a sweet guy who just wants to do his job, but due to his bad luck, everyone mocks him. Charlie is a player, and kind of arrogant, but meeting Dakota changes that quickly. There’s some job-related drama and family stress to add spice to the story, as well as many secondary characters (some familiar to me from previous books and others new to me). If you’re looking for a lot of backstory, slow developing emotions, or real angst, look elsewhere. Status Dramaticus is a pretty simple story. I would have preferred more development of Charlie and Dakota, with more explanation of how they became the men they are today, and a longer buildup for their relationship. Still, Status Dramaticus is a quick and fun read.