Early ReviewersA. J. Otjen

Imagine the searing heat of a wildfire engulfing you, leaving you with unimaginable pain and a future shrouded in uncertainty.

This is the gripping true story of Dan Steffensen, a dedicated Montana firefighter who faced his worst nightmare during the "Summer of Hell" of 2021.

Burned Over! The Survival of Montana Firefighter chronicles Dan's harrowing journey after a burnover incident leaves him critically injured. The book captures the raw intensity of battling wildfires in the unforgiving Montana landscape, where danger lurks around every bend and the capricious nature of fire can turn a routine call into a life-or-death struggle.

Through vivid storytelling and intimate details, readers will witness Dan's excruciating recovery process, both physical and emotional. The story depicts the agonizing pain of wound care, the mental anguish of coming to terms with his injuries, and the unwavering support of his family, friends, and the tight-knit community of Red Lodge, Montana.

This is more than just a story of survival. It's a testament to the indomitable spirit of firefighters, the profound bonds forged in the face of adversity, and the unwavering strength of the human spirit.

Prepare to be captivated by Dan's extraordinary journey as he navigates the physical and emotional challenges of recovery, rediscovers the profound meaning of community, and ultimately confronts his own mortality to find a renewed purpose in life.

Advance Review:

"An emotional story filled with hope. This moving story chronicles the struggles of not only one firefighter's journey of recovery from severe burns but also the people of a small town in southern Montana. The story is researched thoroughly and conveys the emotions and courage of Dan, his co-workers and vast network of firefighters who supported him, as well as his friends and family. The story is also educational. I learned a lot about firefighting and the odds severely burned victims face in their recovery."

In 2021, Montana firefighter Dan Steffensen tried to outrun a sixty-mile-an-hour wall of fire.

But it overcame him, burning over 60% of his body. He should have died. The citizens of Red Lodge, Montana, needed him and prayed for his life. Three more tragedies hit his hometown during that Summer of Hell.

Drawing from a wealth of interviews and research, author A.J. Otjen tells the inspiring story of how often first responders, doctors, and hundreds of good people stepped up to greatness. All the while, Dan fought his own internal battle to live or die.