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Winning at Love #1
Worth the Fight
A bad boy who lives outside the law. A compassionate soul focused on helping others. Sometimes rules are meant to be broken... for love.
Caden
Helping my brother was my focus. He got into trouble and I’ve been using my skills in the ring to prevent loan sharks from breaking his kneecaps... or worse.
Until I met Noah.
He’s a good man who makes me want to be better. A man who doesn't lace up his gloves and step into underground rings. But I have one last fight coming. This time the stakes are higher than ever. What I have to do to save my brother could cost me the man I’m falling for.
Noah
I should have walked away and never looked back when I first met the MMA fighter with honey-gold eyes. Yet Caden’s charms are too appealing to ignore. As a social worker it's important for me to keep my nose clean.
And Caden is a red flag in every way.
Still, he’s hot as sin and I can't seem to stay away. I’m taking a risk by opening myself up to him, but I'm convinced beneath that bad boy exterior beats the heart of a good man who is worth the fight.
Worth the Fight is an opposites attract MM romance. It is book one of the Winning at Love series, a collection of standalone gay romance stories featuring MMA fighters and hockey and football playing heroes. Expect different tropes like enemies to lovers, GFY/bi-awakening, forbidden romance, single dads, found families and happily ever afters.
AUTHOR'S NOTE: A minor character uses hate speech. Fights in the ring are briefly described, but I promise there are no breaking of bones and none of the on-page characters dies. A happily ever after ending is guaranteed.
Caden
Helping my brother was my focus. He got into trouble and I’ve been using my skills in the ring to prevent loan sharks from breaking his kneecaps... or worse.
Until I met Noah.
He’s a good man who makes me want to be better. A man who doesn't lace up his gloves and step into underground rings. But I have one last fight coming. This time the stakes are higher than ever. What I have to do to save my brother could cost me the man I’m falling for.
Noah
I should have walked away and never looked back when I first met the MMA fighter with honey-gold eyes. Yet Caden’s charms are too appealing to ignore. As a social worker it's important for me to keep my nose clean.
And Caden is a red flag in every way.
Still, he’s hot as sin and I can't seem to stay away. I’m taking a risk by opening myself up to him, but I'm convinced beneath that bad boy exterior beats the heart of a good man who is worth the fight.
Worth the Fight is an opposites attract MM romance. It is book one of the Winning at Love series, a collection of standalone gay romance stories featuring MMA fighters and hockey and football playing heroes. Expect different tropes like enemies to lovers, GFY/bi-awakening, forbidden romance, single dads, found families and happily ever afters.
AUTHOR'S NOTE: A minor character uses hate speech. Fights in the ring are briefly described, but I promise there are no breaking of bones and none of the on-page characters dies. A happily ever after ending is guaranteed.
210 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 21, 2023
32 people are currently reading
197 people want to read
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March 11, 2023
Worth the Fight is the first book in the Winning at Love series. I was curious about this story because while I enjoy sports romance as much as the next person, we often see the same sports repeated (Hockey, American football, baseball), but in Worth the Fight, we have an MMA fighter!
We have Noah, a social worker working tirelessly to help struggling individuals in his community. He is overworked and exhausted, but he wants to give back and help someone as he was once helped during his darkest moments. Now, in comes Caden, a cocky raising MMA fighter from a rough background but trying to make it in the octagon. He has a brother who's constantly in trouble and is now out doing underground cage fights in order to help pay off his debts. These two come from different worlds, but the pull is hard to deny once their paths cross.
Overall I think this was a good story from Denver Shaw. It's plot-driven as Noah and Caden have to deal with and prevent the people in their lives from making decisions that would cost them their futures. I also appreciated how we had a black man whose mother is super religious but so loving as well, accepting him 100%. I love seeing accepting parents, especially those from religious backgrounds because they exist. I also liked how they addressed the issue of upwards mobility in society. Austin is a teen who has seen his father struggle and lives a life of crime; his father (despite thinking crime is equal to owning a business) wants his son not to struggle as he did. How he goes about it is totally wrong, but he's not an evil man. There is nothing black and white regarding this.
There is no graphic description of fights but I do think the sports aspect as with the romance took a back seat a bit. The spice was low, and I wish there had been more time for Noah and Caden to grow and deepen their relationship on page.
It was a quick, low angst read and I think a good start to this series.
We have Noah, a social worker working tirelessly to help struggling individuals in his community. He is overworked and exhausted, but he wants to give back and help someone as he was once helped during his darkest moments. Now, in comes Caden, a cocky raising MMA fighter from a rough background but trying to make it in the octagon. He has a brother who's constantly in trouble and is now out doing underground cage fights in order to help pay off his debts. These two come from different worlds, but the pull is hard to deny once their paths cross.
Overall I think this was a good story from Denver Shaw. It's plot-driven as Noah and Caden have to deal with and prevent the people in their lives from making decisions that would cost them their futures. I also appreciated how we had a black man whose mother is super religious but so loving as well, accepting him 100%. I love seeing accepting parents, especially those from religious backgrounds because they exist. I also liked how they addressed the issue of upwards mobility in society. Austin is a teen who has seen his father struggle and lives a life of crime; his father (despite thinking crime is equal to owning a business) wants his son not to struggle as he did. How he goes about it is totally wrong, but he's not an evil man. There is nothing black and white regarding this.
There is no graphic description of fights but I do think the sports aspect as with the romance took a back seat a bit. The spice was low, and I wish there had been more time for Noah and Caden to grow and deepen their relationship on page.
It was a quick, low angst read and I think a good start to this series.
March 10, 2023
Right off the bat this book has a lot going for it as I absolutely love MMA fighting. I was incredibly excited to read another book with a fighter and I was absolutely not disappointed with that aspect of this book. There were quite a few matches and I loved the action. This book also focused a lot on the plot so the romance between Caden and Noah took somewhat of a back seat for a good portion of the book. I actually was happy with that as the action was incredible. This book has a little bit of a Gone in 60 Seconds vibe to it which had me hooked. If you’re looking for something a little different I absolutely recommend this book!
There is an amazing side character in this book that I feel deserves her own shout-out. La Rosita might be one of my favourite characters from this book. She was a super bad-ass, powerful woman holding her own in the criminal world. She’s only in a few scenes but she stood out to me and I loved seeing a female character portrayed this way!
Since the romance wasn’t a huge part of the story during the middle part of the book I found I didn’t feel the connection between the two MCs as much as I should have. I do love though how Caden with no questions asked helped Noah with a problem he had. This is what started the action in my favourite part of the story. Once the action was over I could see their connection more and enjoyed reading about them being together.
I also had a hard time with the first part of the epilogue. I didn’t get it and was very confused and ended up reading ahead because it just didn’t make sense to me. The confusion I felt is explained in the second part of the epilogue but it just threw me out of the story. So if you’re confused just keep reading, all is cleared up!
Overall this was a great read. The beginning was excellent getting to know the characters and I loved all the action (makes me want to read other books with this kind of plot)! I definitely found myself getting more and more excited about the story as I read on. I look forward to reading more books by this author! On a side note this is another book that has perfect formatting for text messages! I wish all authors would use this formatting!
There is an amazing side character in this book that I feel deserves her own shout-out. La Rosita might be one of my favourite characters from this book. She was a super bad-ass, powerful woman holding her own in the criminal world. She’s only in a few scenes but she stood out to me and I loved seeing a female character portrayed this way!
Since the romance wasn’t a huge part of the story during the middle part of the book I found I didn’t feel the connection between the two MCs as much as I should have. I do love though how Caden with no questions asked helped Noah with a problem he had. This is what started the action in my favourite part of the story. Once the action was over I could see their connection more and enjoyed reading about them being together.
I also had a hard time with the first part of the epilogue. I didn’t get it and was very confused and ended up reading ahead because it just didn’t make sense to me. The confusion I felt is explained in the second part of the epilogue but it just threw me out of the story. So if you’re confused just keep reading, all is cleared up!
Overall this was a great read. The beginning was excellent getting to know the characters and I loved all the action (makes me want to read other books with this kind of plot)! I definitely found myself getting more and more excited about the story as I read on. I look forward to reading more books by this author! On a side note this is another book that has perfect formatting for text messages! I wish all authors would use this formatting!
April 9, 2023
2,75*.
Although both MCs were adorable, the plot felt rushed and something just didn't click. Also the epilogue confused me in not a great way at first 🫣 I'm happy Noah and Caden found their HEA but it wasn't so swoon worthy.
Although both MCs were adorable, the plot felt rushed and something just didn't click. Also the epilogue confused me in not a great way at first 🫣 I'm happy Noah and Caden found their HEA but it wasn't so swoon worthy.
March 15, 2023
This is the first book I read by Denver Shaw and I really enjoyed it. The fact one of the MCs is a MMA fighter called out to me immediately and the story didn't disappoint.
Caden is a fighter that needs money desperately to help his brother and Noah is a social worker that gives all his free time to helping others. I loved the way they met and how Caden showed from the first moment that he was interested in Noah. I liked that Caden didn't mind that it was known that he was gay, which could have been an issue for him to make a career in sports.
This is a beautiful book with two MCs that are drawn to each other, trying to fit their feelings into their lives. There were difficult situations, but I loved reading how they both supported one another each time. Also, the secondary characters were a good addition to the plot and made the story realistic and believable.
It is a slow burn, low angst, opposites attract story with sweet moments, quite a bit of action and a beautiful love story. I really liked the plot, the sports part about the fights and the training, and mostly how Caden and Noah fall in love despite being so different.
Caden is a fighter that needs money desperately to help his brother and Noah is a social worker that gives all his free time to helping others. I loved the way they met and how Caden showed from the first moment that he was interested in Noah. I liked that Caden didn't mind that it was known that he was gay, which could have been an issue for him to make a career in sports.
This is a beautiful book with two MCs that are drawn to each other, trying to fit their feelings into their lives. There were difficult situations, but I loved reading how they both supported one another each time. Also, the secondary characters were a good addition to the plot and made the story realistic and believable.
It is a slow burn, low angst, opposites attract story with sweet moments, quite a bit of action and a beautiful love story. I really liked the plot, the sports part about the fights and the training, and mostly how Caden and Noah fall in love despite being so different.
March 8, 2023
“𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝗻𝗼 𝗯𝗲𝗮𝘂𝘁𝘆 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗺𝘆 𝗡𝗼𝗮𝗵; 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗝𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝗺𝗼𝗮!”
———
𝗖𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗝𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀, 𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗻’𝘁 𝘀𝗲𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴.
Worth the Fight is book 1 in the brand new Winning at Love Series by a new-to-me author. It centers around social worker, Noah, and MMA fighter, Caden. Noah is straight-laced but drawn to the gorgeous cage fighter. Caden is fighting dirty to save his brother but all he wants is Noah. These two navigate some major push and pull for half the book but their chemistry is constantly simmering in the background. Their love was genuine and sweet and passionate.
So I REALLY like both MCs. Noah is true to himself and seems compassionate and sincere in everything he does. Caden is bound by familial pulls but is the best guy deep down. He’s willing to do what he can to win Noah over and even though Noah fights it, he can’t resist the pull eventually.
This honestly felt more plot heavy. Noah job as a social worker, his past with his father, Caden’s family, and Noah’s protection of Austin are all more page time than the romance. But there’s quite a few sexy times and while I wish we got more on page relationship development, I enjoyed the story.
QUOTE HIGHLIGHTS: 17
POV: 1st, Dual
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
TROPES: MM, Opposites Attract
🅁🄰🅃🄸🄽🄶: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙛𝙧𝙚𝙚. 𝙈𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬 𝙞𝙨 𝙫𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙮.
———
𝗖𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗝𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀, 𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗻’𝘁 𝘀𝗲𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴.
Worth the Fight is book 1 in the brand new Winning at Love Series by a new-to-me author. It centers around social worker, Noah, and MMA fighter, Caden. Noah is straight-laced but drawn to the gorgeous cage fighter. Caden is fighting dirty to save his brother but all he wants is Noah. These two navigate some major push and pull for half the book but their chemistry is constantly simmering in the background. Their love was genuine and sweet and passionate.
So I REALLY like both MCs. Noah is true to himself and seems compassionate and sincere in everything he does. Caden is bound by familial pulls but is the best guy deep down. He’s willing to do what he can to win Noah over and even though Noah fights it, he can’t resist the pull eventually.
This honestly felt more plot heavy. Noah job as a social worker, his past with his father, Caden’s family, and Noah’s protection of Austin are all more page time than the romance. But there’s quite a few sexy times and while I wish we got more on page relationship development, I enjoyed the story.
QUOTE HIGHLIGHTS: 17
POV: 1st, Dual
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
TROPES: MM, Opposites Attract
🅁🄰🅃🄸🄽🄶: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙛𝙧𝙚𝙚. 𝙈𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬 𝙞𝙨 𝙫𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙮.
March 17, 2023
I was ridiculously intrigued by this one the second I saw it was a social worker and an MMA fighter!! Such an interesting dynamic, and it freaking WORKED!!
Noah is a social worker whose sole purpose is to help others. He meets Caden Jones, one of the top MMA fighters in the circuit, and as much as he tries to stay away, Caden will not allow it! One thing that I REALLY loved about this book was that Denver stuck as close to the truth as possible. You can tell that the research was done; as someone who works in a career similar to a social worker, I was in AWE of the details surrounding Noah’s career!! And Noah is the EPITOME of a social worker; wanting to help no matter what, and sticking to his morals. I loved Noah and everything that we got with him!!
Caden, the smooth talking MMA fighter is somewhat of a conundrum! He loves what he does but he has secrets. Secrets that will definitely hinder his relationship with Noah, but he is willing to do all that he can to get Noah in his life. Their relationship growth and the way in which Denver built it up was realistic, and so freaking wholesome!! The banter and push and shove was immaculate! This book is plot driven, and it did not bother me one bit!! The sweetness and love between Noah and Caden was enough for me. The action that splays across the pages kept me hooked!!
This book felt like a real life love story was playing out in front of my eyes; it made sense, it was wholesome but also had some surprises within the pages!! Denver Shaw is a new author to me, but I enjoyed this book so much!
Noah is a social worker whose sole purpose is to help others. He meets Caden Jones, one of the top MMA fighters in the circuit, and as much as he tries to stay away, Caden will not allow it! One thing that I REALLY loved about this book was that Denver stuck as close to the truth as possible. You can tell that the research was done; as someone who works in a career similar to a social worker, I was in AWE of the details surrounding Noah’s career!! And Noah is the EPITOME of a social worker; wanting to help no matter what, and sticking to his morals. I loved Noah and everything that we got with him!!
Caden, the smooth talking MMA fighter is somewhat of a conundrum! He loves what he does but he has secrets. Secrets that will definitely hinder his relationship with Noah, but he is willing to do all that he can to get Noah in his life. Their relationship growth and the way in which Denver built it up was realistic, and so freaking wholesome!! The banter and push and shove was immaculate! This book is plot driven, and it did not bother me one bit!! The sweetness and love between Noah and Caden was enough for me. The action that splays across the pages kept me hooked!!
This book felt like a real life love story was playing out in front of my eyes; it made sense, it was wholesome but also had some surprises within the pages!! Denver Shaw is a new author to me, but I enjoyed this book so much!
March 24, 2023
Caden is an MMA cage fighter, but due to his brother getting into some trouble he’s been having to do some illegal fights which he’s not happy about but has no choice because you do what you have to for family. He has a legal fight locally and he bumps into a hot guy in a sexy suit looking for his seat which happened to be ring side! He’s instantly attracted to him but he likes that he has to work to get this man attention!
Noah is a social worker who’s constantly snowed under with work, he’s exhausted and rarely takes a day off, but through his work helping Austin a young man who had some troubles, he’s gained a “nephew”. When Austin invites him to attend a cage fight, he can’t say no! Here he meets a smooth talker who he thinks just wants a hook up which he’s not down for, little did he realise he’s just pied off the man he’s about to watch fight!!
This was a quick lower angst read, with found family vibes which I love, there’s not to much fight action as it’s more about the MC but enough to keep you interested, I loved La Rosita and her secrets!! I could of done with more spice and more details but that’s the Smutt in me!!!
The epilogue threw me though, I was like what heck? What did I miss!!! But the second part clears it up!!
I look forward to the next book in the series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Book content-
🥊MMA fighter
🥊Found family
🥊Moderate angst
🥊Humour
🥊Opposites attract
🥊Interracial
Noah is a social worker who’s constantly snowed under with work, he’s exhausted and rarely takes a day off, but through his work helping Austin a young man who had some troubles, he’s gained a “nephew”. When Austin invites him to attend a cage fight, he can’t say no! Here he meets a smooth talker who he thinks just wants a hook up which he’s not down for, little did he realise he’s just pied off the man he’s about to watch fight!!
This was a quick lower angst read, with found family vibes which I love, there’s not to much fight action as it’s more about the MC but enough to keep you interested, I loved La Rosita and her secrets!! I could of done with more spice and more details but that’s the Smutt in me!!!
The epilogue threw me though, I was like what heck? What did I miss!!! But the second part clears it up!!
I look forward to the next book in the series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Book content-
🥊MMA fighter
🥊Found family
🥊Moderate angst
🥊Humour
🥊Opposites attract
🥊Interracial
March 22, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.25 stars
The writing is decent, the pace is good, and the overall plot holds together fairly well. While I wasn’t a fan of Noah and Caden, I’m interested enough in this author’s work to look forward to the next book in the Winning At Love series.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
3.25 stars
The writing is decent, the pace is good, and the overall plot holds together fairly well. While I wasn’t a fan of Noah and Caden, I’m interested enough in this author’s work to look forward to the next book in the Winning At Love series.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
December 30, 2023
MMA fighter and social worker .. such an interesting mix. It was an interesting step into the (octagon … cage ???) with Cade when he lays it all on the line for the people he loves. Noah is also a great character encouraging others through his job, but also Case to be the best man he can be.
‘I started thinking about how I could be a better version of the man you distrusted and what I could do to be the man you deserved’
‘I started thinking about how I could be a better version of the man you distrusted and what I could do to be the man you deserved’
March 24, 2023
Cant wait for book #2
Oh my. A melt your heart type of book if I ever did say. Caden and Noah are absolutely adorable together and it was so amazing watching them find their HEA.
Oh my. A melt your heart type of book if I ever did say. Caden and Noah are absolutely adorable together and it was so amazing watching them find their HEA.
March 22, 2023
4.5 stars
A great start as Noah and Caden first meet, and the banter flies between them.
Noah was a public service man and was invited to the Diggs by his adopted nephew. Noah meets a guy at the door who starts flirting with him; I loved that and what happens shortly after.
Caden was a heavyweight fighter who wanted to get to know Noah but had a few secrets.
Being set up by a nephew after a grilling from Caden was comical in the scene.
A perfect opposite attracts romance with fires blazing between them, some good and some bad. However, I felt Noah needed an explanation if their relationship wanted to get off the ground, second chances and all that when things go wrong.
Caden was helping his brother out of a bad situation of owing money and putting him in danger.
Worth the Fight is an enjoyable book with both povs, and it ends with a HEA. I loved the epilogue finish.
A great start as Noah and Caden first meet, and the banter flies between them.
Noah was a public service man and was invited to the Diggs by his adopted nephew. Noah meets a guy at the door who starts flirting with him; I loved that and what happens shortly after.
Caden was a heavyweight fighter who wanted to get to know Noah but had a few secrets.
Being set up by a nephew after a grilling from Caden was comical in the scene.
A perfect opposite attracts romance with fires blazing between them, some good and some bad. However, I felt Noah needed an explanation if their relationship wanted to get off the ground, second chances and all that when things go wrong.
Caden was helping his brother out of a bad situation of owing money and putting him in danger.
Worth the Fight is an enjoyable book with both povs, and it ends with a HEA. I loved the epilogue finish.
March 31, 2023
Worth the Fight by Denver Shaw centers around the relationship between MMA fighter Caden and social worker Noah, and their journey to overcome their differences and find love. The chemistry between the two main characters is compelling, and their love story is sweet and passionate. Caden's rough exterior hides a soft heart, and Noah's compassion and sincerity shines through. The characters captured my heart like a hot fudge sundae. But hey, that's just me. The concept of an MMA fighter and a social worker falling in love is like a classic romantic comedy, and these two opposites attract each other like magnets. Caden is a fighter, and not just in the ring; he's fighting for his brother's life, while Noah is fighting to make the world a better place.
Despite their differences, they're drawn to each other, and their chemistry is hotter than a jalapeño pepper. The plot is is compelling with all the MMA fighting, social work, family drama, and past issues. But there's enough romance and sexy time to balance it out, and that added whipped cream to my coffee.
Compared to other books in the sports and contemporary romance genre, Worth the Fight stands out for its focus on the MMA world and Noah's occupation. I loved Denver Shaw's writing style in a story low on angst and highly enjoyable. I thought the story interesting and Shaw provided enough deepening to the characters and the MMA world to make the story compelling. While some secondary characters could have been fleshed out more, Caden and Noah's relationship is the highlight of the book. And rightly so. The push and pull between the two is magnetic, and the slow burn worked for their relationship. The characters captured my heart like a hot fudge sundae would. But hey, that's just me.
The concept of an MMA fighter and a social worker falling in love is like a classic romantic comedy, and these two opposites attract each other like magnets. Caden is a fighter, and not just in the ring, as he's fighting for his brother's life, while Noah is fighting to make the world a better place.
The secondary characters, Sampson and Pax, are like two peas in a pod, and I wished they could punch some sense into each other. But the main characters, Caden and Noah carried the story and rightly so, and made it worth reading.
The ending for me is like finally solving the Rubik's cube. Satisfying. The HEA was well-deserved and made me smile like a Cheshire cat. I wanted more Caden and Noah time, like a second cup of coffee. This book is like taking a dip in a warm pool on a sunny day.
A work in the same genre is "Against the Cage" by Sidney Halston, which centers around the relationship between an MMA fighter and a makeup artist. While the gender roles are reversed compared to "Worth the Fight," the book still features a similar theme of a fighter falling in love with someone outside of the fighting world. However, "Against the Cage" centers around the fight and not so much the romance and this is where I must dip my hat to Denver Shaw for exploring a compelling romance.
Another book, "In the Ring" by Rie Warren is another gay MMA romance novel. The book centers around a former Marine who becomes an MMA fighter and the relationship he develops with his coach. The book features plenty of steamy romance and a focus on the intense physical and emotional tolls of MMA fighting. However, there are so many books that develop romantic relationships between fighter and coach, and Denver Shaw breaks that chain quite admirably.
Keep in mind there aren't many gay MMA romance novels as there are heterosexual ones.
Denver Shaw is a new-to-me author, and I'm excited to read more of their work.
IN ORDER TO REACH A FIVE STAR RATING EACH PRINCIPLE BELOW MUST HAVE 5 POSITIVE REACTIONS.
Characters: Intimate. Flawed. Compelling. Deepening. Presence.
Plot: Conflict. Action. Reaction. Clear goals. Evoke emotional responses.
Dialogue: Shows conflict. Moves story forward. Shows characters. No unnecessary conversations. No author intrusion.
Scene: Stimulating. Action scenes. Goal Scenes. Reaction scenes Emotional scenes. Decision scenes.
Pacing: Slow angst. Engaging. Bond established between reader and characters. Flashback scenes not incidental adds to pacing.
Despite their differences, they're drawn to each other, and their chemistry is hotter than a jalapeño pepper. The plot is is compelling with all the MMA fighting, social work, family drama, and past issues. But there's enough romance and sexy time to balance it out, and that added whipped cream to my coffee.
Compared to other books in the sports and contemporary romance genre, Worth the Fight stands out for its focus on the MMA world and Noah's occupation. I loved Denver Shaw's writing style in a story low on angst and highly enjoyable. I thought the story interesting and Shaw provided enough deepening to the characters and the MMA world to make the story compelling. While some secondary characters could have been fleshed out more, Caden and Noah's relationship is the highlight of the book. And rightly so. The push and pull between the two is magnetic, and the slow burn worked for their relationship. The characters captured my heart like a hot fudge sundae would. But hey, that's just me.
The concept of an MMA fighter and a social worker falling in love is like a classic romantic comedy, and these two opposites attract each other like magnets. Caden is a fighter, and not just in the ring, as he's fighting for his brother's life, while Noah is fighting to make the world a better place.
The secondary characters, Sampson and Pax, are like two peas in a pod, and I wished they could punch some sense into each other. But the main characters, Caden and Noah carried the story and rightly so, and made it worth reading.
The ending for me is like finally solving the Rubik's cube. Satisfying. The HEA was well-deserved and made me smile like a Cheshire cat. I wanted more Caden and Noah time, like a second cup of coffee. This book is like taking a dip in a warm pool on a sunny day.
A work in the same genre is "Against the Cage" by Sidney Halston, which centers around the relationship between an MMA fighter and a makeup artist. While the gender roles are reversed compared to "Worth the Fight," the book still features a similar theme of a fighter falling in love with someone outside of the fighting world. However, "Against the Cage" centers around the fight and not so much the romance and this is where I must dip my hat to Denver Shaw for exploring a compelling romance.
Another book, "In the Ring" by Rie Warren is another gay MMA romance novel. The book centers around a former Marine who becomes an MMA fighter and the relationship he develops with his coach. The book features plenty of steamy romance and a focus on the intense physical and emotional tolls of MMA fighting. However, there are so many books that develop romantic relationships between fighter and coach, and Denver Shaw breaks that chain quite admirably.
Keep in mind there aren't many gay MMA romance novels as there are heterosexual ones.
Denver Shaw is a new-to-me author, and I'm excited to read more of their work.
IN ORDER TO REACH A FIVE STAR RATING EACH PRINCIPLE BELOW MUST HAVE 5 POSITIVE REACTIONS.
Characters: Intimate. Flawed. Compelling. Deepening. Presence.
Plot: Conflict. Action. Reaction. Clear goals. Evoke emotional responses.
Dialogue: Shows conflict. Moves story forward. Shows characters. No unnecessary conversations. No author intrusion.
Scene: Stimulating. Action scenes. Goal Scenes. Reaction scenes Emotional scenes. Decision scenes.
Pacing: Slow angst. Engaging. Bond established between reader and characters. Flashback scenes not incidental adds to pacing.
March 28, 2023
Caden fights legally and illegally. His legal MMA fights are well-attended, well-paying and well within the law. His illegal, no-holds barred fights are even better attended, better paying and well outside of the law. The reason he fights underground? His brothers owes a lot of money to bad people. What he needs is one big fight, one big payday to pay off the debt and he can get on the right side of the law in his fights and in life. What he doesn’t see coming is someone who makes him want to walk away from all fighting in the ring and fight for love.
When Noah meets Caden before a fight he goes to with a former client and client’s stepdad, he doesn’t realize he’s the fighter he’s there to see. Caden hits on Noah, but Noah has a caseload so overfull that he doesn’t even time to flirt with the idea of flirting. However, seeing Caden fight gets Noah a bit riled up and when Caden convinces Noah’s young client to give him the info on where Noah can be found, Noah doesn’t stand a chance at resisting sweet, handsome and charming Caden.
However, when Noah overhears Caden’s brother talking about his debts and illegal fights, he has no choice but to walk away from the fragile foundation he’s started to build with Caden. Caden’s underground fighting is not compatible with Noah’s responsibilities in his role as a social worker. When Noah’s impressionable former client is wooed into bad decisions by his bio-dad, Noah has no choice but to turn to Caden to help the teen off of the path he’s headed down before he winds up in prison like his father before him. Noah realizes that Caden is a truly good person and that he’s fallen in love with him.
Caden’s last underground fight is exceptionally dangerous and there’s a good chance that if Caden doesn’t win the fight, he’ll lose more than the fight – only leaving the ring in a body bag. Can Caden win the fight and have his Happily Ever After with Noah or will this last battle be a total knockout?
I received a complimentary copy of this book and, as always, my review is unpaid and honest.
Worth the Fight
Denver Shaw
When Noah meets Caden before a fight he goes to with a former client and client’s stepdad, he doesn’t realize he’s the fighter he’s there to see. Caden hits on Noah, but Noah has a caseload so overfull that he doesn’t even time to flirt with the idea of flirting. However, seeing Caden fight gets Noah a bit riled up and when Caden convinces Noah’s young client to give him the info on where Noah can be found, Noah doesn’t stand a chance at resisting sweet, handsome and charming Caden.
However, when Noah overhears Caden’s brother talking about his debts and illegal fights, he has no choice but to walk away from the fragile foundation he’s started to build with Caden. Caden’s underground fighting is not compatible with Noah’s responsibilities in his role as a social worker. When Noah’s impressionable former client is wooed into bad decisions by his bio-dad, Noah has no choice but to turn to Caden to help the teen off of the path he’s headed down before he winds up in prison like his father before him. Noah realizes that Caden is a truly good person and that he’s fallen in love with him.
Caden’s last underground fight is exceptionally dangerous and there’s a good chance that if Caden doesn’t win the fight, he’ll lose more than the fight – only leaving the ring in a body bag. Can Caden win the fight and have his Happily Ever After with Noah or will this last battle be a total knockout?
I received a complimentary copy of this book and, as always, my review is unpaid and honest.
Worth the Fight
Denver Shaw
October 17, 2025
Caden is an MMA fighter turned cage fighter to earn money to help his little brother from getting beat down or worse by bookies that he owes a lot of money to. Noah is a straight laced social worker who got out of what could have been a bad life if not for his father and doesn't plan for anything to disrupt that even if his life is work, home and predictable. But when Noah and Caden meet Noah can't help but be a bit charmed by the man he doesn't know is about to be fighting in the ring the night they met. He turns Caden down at first even though he likes what he sees but Caden is nothing if not determined and persistent and with a little help from Noah's nephew he puts his plan into action to get Noah to let him take him out. They have great chemistry and the attraction is there but the darker part of Caden's life and what he does to be able to help his brother are what makes Noah want to put up a wall. I will say I understand Noah's reasoning but I just feel like he was kind of a jerk and pretty judgmental by making assumptions about Caden which made me take a second to warm up to him. Caden isn't perfect but he sees something in Noah and believes he can finally have something real and his and he fights for Noah's love. In turn Noah gives his back as well. I wish there was a little more added to the story to show their connection a bit more and flesh it out and I felt like more could be added to Caden and Pax's relationship as well since to me Pax felt super selfish and like he didnt care if his brother was hurt as long as he was safe. But I really enjoyed the book and the way these two men fight for what they want deep down even when things get rocky.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 22, 2023
4 stars
This book was a pleasant surprise, I didn't think I could be so invested in a book with a MMA fighter.
Caden is a wonderful man, he seems cocky and arrogant, but instead is a dedicated athlete, a man who supports his family, a man capable of loving deeply. Noah is also dedicate to his job at the risk of losing his personal life; the scars he bears run deeply, but his father's exemple helps him navigating all the difficuties of his job.
I loved that there's no judgement in this book: for Caden's side job, for Austin's father's poor choices.
And I really loved how Caden and Noah were enticed to each other. I would have liked more romance, though: more dates, more times spent together. Sometimes all the rest of the side characters' problems (especially Paxton and Austin's) move the love story to the background.
The spice level is low, there are only two sex scenes, but that doesn't diminish the romance: their first time together is so sweet and emotional!
The side characters are interesting too (especially La Rosita), I hope we'll see more about Paxton's redemption in the future. Sully is also great, but his story made me a little sad.
I have to be honest, the first epilogue was difficult to understand and it didn't add anything interesting to the story. I would have preferred something different.
I'll definitely read the following books of this series and in the meantime I surely recommend this one.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
This book was a pleasant surprise, I didn't think I could be so invested in a book with a MMA fighter.
Caden is a wonderful man, he seems cocky and arrogant, but instead is a dedicated athlete, a man who supports his family, a man capable of loving deeply. Noah is also dedicate to his job at the risk of losing his personal life; the scars he bears run deeply, but his father's exemple helps him navigating all the difficuties of his job.
I loved that there's no judgement in this book: for Caden's side job, for Austin's father's poor choices.
And I really loved how Caden and Noah were enticed to each other. I would have liked more romance, though: more dates, more times spent together. Sometimes all the rest of the side characters' problems (especially Paxton and Austin's) move the love story to the background.
The spice level is low, there are only two sex scenes, but that doesn't diminish the romance: their first time together is so sweet and emotional!
The side characters are interesting too (especially La Rosita), I hope we'll see more about Paxton's redemption in the future. Sully is also great, but his story made me a little sad.
I have to be honest, the first epilogue was difficult to understand and it didn't add anything interesting to the story. I would have preferred something different.
I'll definitely read the following books of this series and in the meantime I surely recommend this one.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
March 28, 2023
3 - 3.5 Stars
This is the first book in a new sports series, this book featuring an MMA fighter and it's definitely an interesting start. It's also got the opposites attract thing going for it too. This book features Noah, a hardworking social worker determined to help people and make a difference and Caden, a cocky MMA fighter on the rise who may be outstanding in the ring but faces some major challenges trying to help his younger brother with a serious debt. These two meet at a fight, Noah just trying to find his seat and Caden the star of the night and it may be lust at first sight but if these two stand a chance at anything real, well that'll be the real fight.
I liked both of these guys, they are definitely strong characters with strong personalities. There's a lot of drama to their story, Noah has very high moral standards and expectations for his life and even though he's trying to help his brother Caden operates in a grey area when it comes to his choices. But, these two share a strong connection they can't seem to deny are determined to figure out how to make it work.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and was interested in seeing how it was all going to play out for these two. There were some moments where I really questioned how these two very different men could end up together, but in the end I was happy with their story. There were some times when things felt a bit rushed or unfinished, but in general there was a good flow and pace. I'm definitely curious to see what other stories are coming for this series.
This is the first book in a new sports series, this book featuring an MMA fighter and it's definitely an interesting start. It's also got the opposites attract thing going for it too. This book features Noah, a hardworking social worker determined to help people and make a difference and Caden, a cocky MMA fighter on the rise who may be outstanding in the ring but faces some major challenges trying to help his younger brother with a serious debt. These two meet at a fight, Noah just trying to find his seat and Caden the star of the night and it may be lust at first sight but if these two stand a chance at anything real, well that'll be the real fight.
I liked both of these guys, they are definitely strong characters with strong personalities. There's a lot of drama to their story, Noah has very high moral standards and expectations for his life and even though he's trying to help his brother Caden operates in a grey area when it comes to his choices. But, these two share a strong connection they can't seem to deny are determined to figure out how to make it work.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and was interested in seeing how it was all going to play out for these two. There were some moments where I really questioned how these two very different men could end up together, but in the end I was happy with their story. There were some times when things felt a bit rushed or unfinished, but in general there was a good flow and pace. I'm definitely curious to see what other stories are coming for this series.
May 14, 2023
There is a lot about this book to like, between interesting characters and strong pacing.
“Worth the Fight” is the story of MMA fighter Caden and a big-hearted social worker, Noah. Noah’s mentoring one of his former clients, Austin, who takes him to a fight, where he catches the eye of Caden, who immediately starts hitting on him. But Noah’s too busy with work to date, and Caden worries about if he ever learned the truth of Caden’s illegal cage fight sideline, he won’t want anything to do with him.
There was enough to like about this book to finish, but I didn’t care for the growth of Caden and Noah’s relationship. The chemistry between them seemed purely superficial, despite small details that made him deeper than the tough fighter, like Caden’s talent for cooking and keeping houseplants.
Caden also has anger issues that he turns to violence to address, and he thinks if he’s just open about his issues then they’ll be dealt with; but I didn’t see enough character development or transformation with him. His persistence also verged on the creepy because I didn’t understand his motivations. Likewise, Noah’s struggles with his work schedule was never dealt with, and I felt he was a little too quick to forgive Caden. Their relationship just felt superficial to me.
That said if you like steamy instalove sports romances then again, there’s a lot to appreciate here. The back story between Austin and his criminal father and the side characters were intriguing. I’d still read more by this author.
“Worth the Fight” is the story of MMA fighter Caden and a big-hearted social worker, Noah. Noah’s mentoring one of his former clients, Austin, who takes him to a fight, where he catches the eye of Caden, who immediately starts hitting on him. But Noah’s too busy with work to date, and Caden worries about if he ever learned the truth of Caden’s illegal cage fight sideline, he won’t want anything to do with him.
There was enough to like about this book to finish, but I didn’t care for the growth of Caden and Noah’s relationship. The chemistry between them seemed purely superficial, despite small details that made him deeper than the tough fighter, like Caden’s talent for cooking and keeping houseplants.
Caden also has anger issues that he turns to violence to address, and he thinks if he’s just open about his issues then they’ll be dealt with; but I didn’t see enough character development or transformation with him. His persistence also verged on the creepy because I didn’t understand his motivations. Likewise, Noah’s struggles with his work schedule was never dealt with, and I felt he was a little too quick to forgive Caden. Their relationship just felt superficial to me.
That said if you like steamy instalove sports romances then again, there’s a lot to appreciate here. The back story between Austin and his criminal father and the side characters were intriguing. I’d still read more by this author.
May 7, 2023
If there’s one thing I love about a sports romance, it’s the actual scenes describing sport. I don’t only mean in the bedroom. I mean actual, realistic depictions.
The fight scenes in this book were excellently described. They were very realistic and vivid, and I more than once sensed the sound of flesh colliding with flesh or sensed the metalic smell of blood.
The love story was very sweet - on the surface opposites attract but both MCs have experienced loss in life and are seeking a deeper connection with someone. To Caden, the fighter, it is insta-lust when he encounters the more reluctant Noah, the social worker with a heart of gold. However, Noah doesn’t need a lot of convincing.
I really loved the chemistry between Noah & Caden. The need and will to make this relationship work in spite of difficulties. Compromise becomes the keyword for these two as especially Noah accepts parts of Caden, which he’s always regarded as deal breakers.
There was a sweetness to this low-steam romance, which we don’t often see in romance anymore. There was an insistance on making this relationship work, which I found very realistic and frankly quite moving.
So, here we go:
Plot: 🩷🩷🩷🩷
Steam: ❤️🔥
Swoon: 💕💕💕
Angst: 😨
Bonus points: the cactus scene! 🫠🫠🫠
And the fact that Denver Shaw is a kick-ass writer. I love her style, the flow and the banter.
I can’t wait to read the next in the series ☺️🩷
*Check trigger warnings even though this is a low-angst book
March 20, 2023
3.5 stars
Noah and Caden both grew up struggling, and now both are good, likeable, hard working men.
Noah does everything he can for his community as a social worker.
Caden works hard as an MMA fighter, but in order to get his brother out of debt from loan sharks, he fights in illegal cage fights.
When Noah discovers this, he doesn't give Caden the chance to explain why he does it, he just ends their dating that had barely begun. However, when Noah needs help, he calls on Caden who doesn't hesitate to help. When this situation is resolved, Noah gives Caden his chance to explain, and Noah decides to stick by him.
There is a lot of drama around Caden's last cage fight, and as expected, there is a fair amount of violence that goes with it.
I loved Noah and Caden individually but I didn't really feel the connection between them, or the speed with which they were exchanging I love you's. They needed more than three interactions for this to feel genuine.
There were many secondary characters that added depth to this story - whether good or bad.
I will say that the epilogue was great and gave our MC's a sweet HEA.
I received an ARC of this book through GRR, this is my honest opinion.
Noah and Caden both grew up struggling, and now both are good, likeable, hard working men.
Noah does everything he can for his community as a social worker.
Caden works hard as an MMA fighter, but in order to get his brother out of debt from loan sharks, he fights in illegal cage fights.
When Noah discovers this, he doesn't give Caden the chance to explain why he does it, he just ends their dating that had barely begun. However, when Noah needs help, he calls on Caden who doesn't hesitate to help. When this situation is resolved, Noah gives Caden his chance to explain, and Noah decides to stick by him.
There is a lot of drama around Caden's last cage fight, and as expected, there is a fair amount of violence that goes with it.
I loved Noah and Caden individually but I didn't really feel the connection between them, or the speed with which they were exchanging I love you's. They needed more than three interactions for this to feel genuine.
There were many secondary characters that added depth to this story - whether good or bad.
I will say that the epilogue was great and gave our MC's a sweet HEA.
I received an ARC of this book through GRR, this is my honest opinion.
March 15, 2023
An MMA fighter involved in illegal fights falls for a heart of gold social worker.
First in series (Winning at Love). Instalove. Slow burn. POC representation. Dual POV. MMA fighter Caden is instantly attracted to the stunning Noah when he sees him at his fight and makes every effort to get to know him better. Noah is a workaholic social worker with no time for dating, but Caden slips through his walls because under the tough confident fighter is a sweet protective man. This story was instantly engaging due to outside forces revolving around their lives, both Caden and Noah have emotional backgrounds and family that support them or they are supporting which helps to explain their personalities and motivations. Strength of character, loyalty, commitment, strong morals embody both Caden and Noah. An interesting secondary cast of characters and problems to overcome together gave this story depth. Caden is dedicated in his pursuit of Noah, and Noah does not lower his hopes and expectations in order to be with Caden. Two deserving men that find a partner and get their swoony HEA. 4.5 rounded up
First in series (Winning at Love). Instalove. Slow burn. POC representation. Dual POV. MMA fighter Caden is instantly attracted to the stunning Noah when he sees him at his fight and makes every effort to get to know him better. Noah is a workaholic social worker with no time for dating, but Caden slips through his walls because under the tough confident fighter is a sweet protective man. This story was instantly engaging due to outside forces revolving around their lives, both Caden and Noah have emotional backgrounds and family that support them or they are supporting which helps to explain their personalities and motivations. Strength of character, loyalty, commitment, strong morals embody both Caden and Noah. An interesting secondary cast of characters and problems to overcome together gave this story depth. Caden is dedicated in his pursuit of Noah, and Noah does not lower his hopes and expectations in order to be with Caden. Two deserving men that find a partner and get their swoony HEA. 4.5 rounded up
March 22, 2023
Worth the Fight was the perfect mix of fluff and rough. It provided just enough insight into the MMA world to give depth to Caden’s character, while portraying the beautiful romance that developed between him and Noah. Despite his profession, I really liked the way the author made Caden’s character smooth, instead of rough, and made him a perfect complement to Noah’s character.
A couple of characters, Sampson and Pax, made me wish they could spend some time in a ring to have some sense knocked into them. I like when I can really get into the secondary characters in a book. However, I had a hard time connecting with those types of characters in this book. Austin came closest for me, and even he was touch and go. That being said, the two MCs totally carried this book and made it an enjoyable read.
The epilogue was interesting but cute. I had to go back and look to make sure I had the timeline correct and then just follow along to see what the conclusion was. I didn’t like feeling confused, but the resolution was both satisfactory and explanatory. I also liked that it didn’t leave ends dangling. It was a very well deserved HEA that put a smile on my face.
A couple of characters, Sampson and Pax, made me wish they could spend some time in a ring to have some sense knocked into them. I like when I can really get into the secondary characters in a book. However, I had a hard time connecting with those types of characters in this book. Austin came closest for me, and even he was touch and go. That being said, the two MCs totally carried this book and made it an enjoyable read.
The epilogue was interesting but cute. I had to go back and look to make sure I had the timeline correct and then just follow along to see what the conclusion was. I didn’t like feeling confused, but the resolution was both satisfactory and explanatory. I also liked that it didn’t leave ends dangling. It was a very well deserved HEA that put a smile on my face.
March 23, 2023
I was attracted from this book by the fact that one of the main characters was an MMA fighter. I always loved combat sports, and, for me, it was a plus to the story.
Here we meet Caden, who is an MMA fighter struggling to get some money to help his brother, and Noah, a social worker really dedicated to his job.
When they first meet, they are phisically attracted from each other, but Noah pulls the break a little bit, because he’s not too much into fighters, while Caden tries immediately to get Noah’s telephone number and to find out some information about him.
It is a slow burn story, and I liked the fact that Caden is not afraid to show his sexuality in his world, because, unfortunately, it’s something that doesn’t happen really often in reality. He’s really self confident, also a little arrogant, but this is just an armour, because we discover that he has a big heart and is really protective. I loved Noah, his dedication and his way to take care of everyone around him. I also loved the side characters, who show, in their personal way, how they care for the two men mentioned above. Well done!
Here we meet Caden, who is an MMA fighter struggling to get some money to help his brother, and Noah, a social worker really dedicated to his job.
When they first meet, they are phisically attracted from each other, but Noah pulls the break a little bit, because he’s not too much into fighters, while Caden tries immediately to get Noah’s telephone number and to find out some information about him.
It is a slow burn story, and I liked the fact that Caden is not afraid to show his sexuality in his world, because, unfortunately, it’s something that doesn’t happen really often in reality. He’s really self confident, also a little arrogant, but this is just an armour, because we discover that he has a big heart and is really protective. I loved Noah, his dedication and his way to take care of everyone around him. I also loved the side characters, who show, in their personal way, how they care for the two men mentioned above. Well done!
March 23, 2023
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New-to-me author Denver Shaw brings us an intriguing story of a gorgeous and confident MMA fighter, and a very dapper Social Worker.
Caden is extremely curious about the man he met at one of his fights. Noah seems hesitant though, so Caden comes up with a plan to woo the man.
As a social worker, Noah is worried about getting involved with this man he knows little about and is probably trouble. But he can’t help the draw to Caden.
So when he discovers what he’s doing for his brother, it’ll take a really big gesture from Caden to prove he’s worth it.
I enjoyed these two guys, from different worlds. The push and pull between them was magnetic, and I loved how they worked through it all, without compromising themselves, for their happy ending.
PS. I’m pissed at Caden’s brother, he doesn’t deserve Caden. (I feel better now, lol)
New-to-me author Denver Shaw brings us an intriguing story of a gorgeous and confident MMA fighter, and a very dapper Social Worker.
Caden is extremely curious about the man he met at one of his fights. Noah seems hesitant though, so Caden comes up with a plan to woo the man.
As a social worker, Noah is worried about getting involved with this man he knows little about and is probably trouble. But he can’t help the draw to Caden.
So when he discovers what he’s doing for his brother, it’ll take a really big gesture from Caden to prove he’s worth it.
I enjoyed these two guys, from different worlds. The push and pull between them was magnetic, and I loved how they worked through it all, without compromising themselves, for their happy ending.
PS. I’m pissed at Caden’s brother, he doesn’t deserve Caden. (I feel better now, lol)
May 9, 2025
'Most people had two smiles: real and fake. Noah had a whole range of smiles, it seemed to me. One for when he thought something was funny, one for when something made him happy. One for when he was surprised, and one for when he was being polite. Now I knew he had one for when I made him feel good.
I wanted to smell Noah, touch him, feel him, hear his voice, see that smile more. All the time. He was a drug I was still high on.'
I really loved this book. Two different men, both fighters in different ways. Yet they connected so beautifully, drawn to each other. As an MMA fighter trying to pay off his brother's debts, Caden had a lot on his shoulders. As a social worker, Noah worked hard to try and help people. There were things he wouldn't accept, and so this wasn't an easy road for these too. But the situations, dynamic, and emotions felt realistic and relatable to me.
I liked a number of the supporting characters, and I really enjoyed the scenes with Noah and his mom. Just the way they spent time together and talked just felt so heartwarming to me.
With the fights, the story was suspenseful and I was eager to see how they would work out and balance. 5 stars.
I wanted to smell Noah, touch him, feel him, hear his voice, see that smile more. All the time. He was a drug I was still high on.'
I really loved this book. Two different men, both fighters in different ways. Yet they connected so beautifully, drawn to each other. As an MMA fighter trying to pay off his brother's debts, Caden had a lot on his shoulders. As a social worker, Noah worked hard to try and help people. There were things he wouldn't accept, and so this wasn't an easy road for these too. But the situations, dynamic, and emotions felt realistic and relatable to me.
I liked a number of the supporting characters, and I really enjoyed the scenes with Noah and his mom. Just the way they spent time together and talked just felt so heartwarming to me.
With the fights, the story was suspenseful and I was eager to see how they would work out and balance. 5 stars.
March 8, 2023
This book is a great example that secrets hurt. Caden is man trying to do his best to help his brother but at what cost. Noah has integrity and a lingering grief from losing his father; which I feel gives him a skewed opinion. He is quick to jump to protect mode, shutting down all emotion he feels for Caden, when he finds out about Caden's secret life. The reader is given the gift of knowledge, we have a dual POV so we can be more objective and actually be cross with Noah for reacting without talking, but he doesn't know the reasons for Caden's secrets so we understand why he is so disappointed. It is double standards though when he calls Caden to help him with a problem. We wait for quite some time for the MC's to get intimate but the scene is sped up and rather glazed over so we don't get the full emotion between them which I feel the reader needs. The emotions and intimate bond came at the end when the two sorted themselves out and we got the HEA ending confirmed in the epilogue. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 20, 2023
4 stars
I really liked Caden, but Noah, well, I liked him at first, but he was sort of self-righteous and he looked down on Caden, and walked away from him, once he found out what he did, well, the illegal part of it, which is perfectly fine, until he needed Caden’s help. He didn’t hesitate to ask him to help and that rubbed me the wrong way.
I thought both men had interesting backstories and I liked the story’s plot. It was interesting, had some action, and was a bit suspenseful, but the romantic portion of the story progressed way too fast.
Caden and Noah had only 2 or 3 interactions and both are already thinking love thoughts. It wasn’t fully believable and I wanted more romance. I wanted to watch them get to know one another and see them fall in love more organically. Although things were a bit rushed in my opinion, Caden and Noah had good chemistry.
Even though I wanted more romance, this was still was an enjoyable read that I’d recommend.
* Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. *
I really liked Caden, but Noah, well, I liked him at first, but he was sort of self-righteous and he looked down on Caden, and walked away from him, once he found out what he did, well, the illegal part of it, which is perfectly fine, until he needed Caden’s help. He didn’t hesitate to ask him to help and that rubbed me the wrong way.
I thought both men had interesting backstories and I liked the story’s plot. It was interesting, had some action, and was a bit suspenseful, but the romantic portion of the story progressed way too fast.
Caden and Noah had only 2 or 3 interactions and both are already thinking love thoughts. It wasn’t fully believable and I wanted more romance. I wanted to watch them get to know one another and see them fall in love more organically. Although things were a bit rushed in my opinion, Caden and Noah had good chemistry.
Even though I wanted more romance, this was still was an enjoyable read that I’d recommend.
* Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. *
March 22, 2023
This is a fast paced fairly short story with a good plot.
Noah and Caden deal with and keep the people in their lives from making decisions that would hurt them.
I liked that a black man thats mother is super religious was so loving and accepting. I liked that neither man, though Noah had a degree and Caden was a prize fighter, was wealthy. I like stories of normal people and deal with down to earth, lifestyle topics.
As for the Characters I did like them all. I liked Caden’s cockiness it was very fitting, and Noah’s down to earth, good heart, but still tough exterior.
What I missed was the romance. There was a little with the chase Caden put forth to win Noah over but it took a backseat to the rest. I’d loved to seen a bit more even if it made the story longer since after the big fight everything seemed a bit rushed after. The book was good enough to pull this out more.
If you like blue collar workers, social workers, MMA/Cage fighters, family, and a decent romance with a good HEA this is for you.
Noah and Caden deal with and keep the people in their lives from making decisions that would hurt them.
I liked that a black man thats mother is super religious was so loving and accepting. I liked that neither man, though Noah had a degree and Caden was a prize fighter, was wealthy. I like stories of normal people and deal with down to earth, lifestyle topics.
As for the Characters I did like them all. I liked Caden’s cockiness it was very fitting, and Noah’s down to earth, good heart, but still tough exterior.
What I missed was the romance. There was a little with the chase Caden put forth to win Noah over but it took a backseat to the rest. I’d loved to seen a bit more even if it made the story longer since after the big fight everything seemed a bit rushed after. The book was good enough to pull this out more.
If you like blue collar workers, social workers, MMA/Cage fighters, family, and a decent romance with a good HEA this is for you.
March 24, 2023
Worth the Fight follows a conventional trope in an unconventional way. Noah and Caden compliment each other in the best way possible. My favorite character in the book is Noah. I love the fact that he does not mould the principles he truly believes in, in order to fit into the definition of love. His kindness ricochets and reverberates through the book. As a person who has seen the darkness that humanity is capable of executing, he still believes in the goodness of humanity, this is truly a beautiful take on a character endowed with both courage and kindness. I love the way he inspires Caden, believes the goodness that lies within him and fight for it. The conventional bad boy/ good boy trope is given an unconventional shape in the sense that Caden's inherent sense of goodness shapes who he is as a person and not the circumstances and situations that he finds him in. Noah on the other hand is a character brewed with kindness and courage, he never needs a knight in shining armor to rescue him from peril, he is a kind soul who sees the light in everyone despite the circumstances.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2023
If you’re into quick, smooshy, streamlined romances, then this is a good pick. There was lots of story and sweet times packed into this short read.
I liked both Caden and Noah as characters - they’re just a couple of squishy boys looking for their HEA. The little bit of drama keeping them apart throughout the story actually played out really well.
The MVP here goes to Austin 🥹 loved how his storyline was seamlessly injected into the main story! Such a cute kid. I wouldn’t mind a story 10 years into the future with this kid at the helm.
Not an overly spicy read, but the drama keeps you occupied. Given how short the book was, it did feel a bit “insta-love”-ey but with the short and sweet ones I guess you’ve gotta fast track it to the finish line 🤷♀️
I have one GLARING issue…
“I like my steak well done.”
👀👀👀 Excuse me?! Wot? WOTTTTTT?!?!?? I will never forgive such blasphemy. What a waste of a good steak.
I received an ARC for this book and these are my honest opinions.
I liked both Caden and Noah as characters - they’re just a couple of squishy boys looking for their HEA. The little bit of drama keeping them apart throughout the story actually played out really well.
The MVP here goes to Austin 🥹 loved how his storyline was seamlessly injected into the main story! Such a cute kid. I wouldn’t mind a story 10 years into the future with this kid at the helm.
Not an overly spicy read, but the drama keeps you occupied. Given how short the book was, it did feel a bit “insta-love”-ey but with the short and sweet ones I guess you’ve gotta fast track it to the finish line 🤷♀️
I have one GLARING issue…
“I like my steak well done.”
👀👀👀 Excuse me?! Wot? WOTTTTTT?!?!?? I will never forgive such blasphemy. What a waste of a good steak.
I received an ARC for this book and these are my honest opinions.
March 27, 2023
Worth The Fight is book 1 in the Winning at Love series. It’s an mma MM romance.
Caden is a strong and fierce fighter. In the ring, he is known as The King. He’s confident and brave. We find that he is also sweet and passionate about protecting those he loves.
Noah is a social worker, responsible and strong. He loves his job, but it’s consuming his life. He has made a big connection with one of his former clients, Austin.
I really enjoyed the plot of this story. It was strongly focussed on mma, the training and the fights. There was a lot of action and some surprises as well.
There were moments throughout the story where you had glimpses of Noah and Caden’s blossoming relationship, along with a few smutty scenes and some banter between them. The best display of their connection was when Noah asked for help, Caden jumped in with no questions asked.
The side characters really helped to enhance the story. Between Sully and Austin and Nikki, both Noah and Caden had great support in found family. But the character that stole the show was La Rosalita. She was only in a few scenes but commanded respect. She was powerful and not afraid to wield her power. Even though she was older, she exudes a quiet confidence that was great to read.
I could have done without Caden’s epilogue, but Noah’s epilogue was sweet and romantic.
This was a good read and I’m interested to see what comes next in the series!
Caden is a strong and fierce fighter. In the ring, he is known as The King. He’s confident and brave. We find that he is also sweet and passionate about protecting those he loves.
Noah is a social worker, responsible and strong. He loves his job, but it’s consuming his life. He has made a big connection with one of his former clients, Austin.
I really enjoyed the plot of this story. It was strongly focussed on mma, the training and the fights. There was a lot of action and some surprises as well.
There were moments throughout the story where you had glimpses of Noah and Caden’s blossoming relationship, along with a few smutty scenes and some banter between them. The best display of their connection was when Noah asked for help, Caden jumped in with no questions asked.
The side characters really helped to enhance the story. Between Sully and Austin and Nikki, both Noah and Caden had great support in found family. But the character that stole the show was La Rosalita. She was only in a few scenes but commanded respect. She was powerful and not afraid to wield her power. Even though she was older, she exudes a quiet confidence that was great to read.
I could have done without Caden’s epilogue, but Noah’s epilogue was sweet and romantic.
This was a good read and I’m interested to see what comes next in the series!
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