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Club Excelsior #1
Yield to Me
No-holds-barred attraction...
Amateur MMA fighter, Marcy Foster is determined to win the state championship. But dark secrets and a broken trust mean there's one submission she just can’t master. Fortunately Club Excelsior has hired a coach who knows all the right moves.
Sexy, confident and commanding, fight consultant Jax demands control, both in and out of the ring. But once he has Marcy against the ropes, Jax knows he’s in too deep. He has the dominance to give her what she needs, but once he unleashes her hidden passions, there's no going back.
Under Jax's skilled hands, Marcy submits to her deepest desires. But when her personal and professional worlds collide, she is forced to face a brutal truth — yielding to her darkest needs may be the one thing that costs her the fight...and her heart.
*This novella was originally published in the New York Times bestselling anthology, Unraveled, and now contains 50% new content*
Amateur MMA fighter, Marcy Foster is determined to win the state championship. But dark secrets and a broken trust mean there's one submission she just can’t master. Fortunately Club Excelsior has hired a coach who knows all the right moves.
Sexy, confident and commanding, fight consultant Jax demands control, both in and out of the ring. But once he has Marcy against the ropes, Jax knows he’s in too deep. He has the dominance to give her what she needs, but once he unleashes her hidden passions, there's no going back.
Under Jax's skilled hands, Marcy submits to her deepest desires. But when her personal and professional worlds collide, she is forced to face a brutal truth — yielding to her darkest needs may be the one thing that costs her the fight...and her heart.
*This novella was originally published in the New York Times bestselling anthology, Unraveled, and now contains 50% new content*
106 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 27, 2014
54 people are currently reading
1166 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Castille
29 books3,351 followersNew York Times and USA Today Bestselling author, Sarah Castille, writes contemporary erotic romance and romantic suspense featuring blazingly hot alpha heroes and the women who tame them. A recovering lawyer and caffeine addict, she worked and traveled abroad before trading her briefcase and stilettos for a handful of magic beans and a home near the Canadian Rockies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
April 29, 2015
3,5 Sexy Stars.
Marcy, amateur fighter trying to go PRO just got a new coach, Jax. What she didn’t expect was to find her coach so hot. Nor that he was as attracted to her, as she was to him. They find out they are pretty compatible inside the sheets, but outside things are a little more difficult.
If you’re looking for a quick and oh, so steamy reading, and this book is a perfect choice. Especially if you like sexy fighters. The writing is good, the characters are likable (the book is not long enough for you to be mad at them) and the fast-paced story is pretty engaging.
Definitely a series to keep up with when in need of a quick fix.
Rating: 3,5 Stars.
Steam: HOT!
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
Marcy, amateur fighter trying to go PRO just got a new coach, Jax. What she didn’t expect was to find her coach so hot. Nor that he was as attracted to her, as she was to him. They find out they are pretty compatible inside the sheets, but outside things are a little more difficult.
If you’re looking for a quick and oh, so steamy reading, and this book is a perfect choice. Especially if you like sexy fighters. The writing is good, the characters are likable (the book is not long enough for you to be mad at them) and the fast-paced story is pretty engaging.
Definitely a series to keep up with when in need of a quick fix.
Rating: 3,5 Stars.
Steam: HOT!
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
March 30, 2015
3.5 stars
Yield to Me is a hot little number about an amateur MMA fighter Marcy and Jax, a trained fight consultant. He is brought in to help Marcy get passed her mind block, every time she is put in a submissive position, she freezes. Denying her submissive sexual side, and fearing the repercussions of being her sexual nature has bled into her work life... freezing up could cost her, her life and it isn't something her friends or Jax is willing to risk. But Jax's a natural dominant, and his commands and words are more of a distraction than help...
His words and action cause a different desire and need, instead of wanting to fight, she finds herself wishing...
Would giving in to her need, allow her to move on, or will emotions come to play and ruin it all...
Yield to Me is a quick read, insta-lust, high sexual tension, slow build to a big explosion. I enjoyed this read, but there was something missing for me, we were introduced to the reasons they are the way they are but the process on how they were able to overcome it was a tad bit rushed. There isn't much BDSM play, more toying with the idea of control and submission. It is a short book, so I wasn't expecting too much detail, but I still look to give me that sense of justification when all is said and done. I enjoyed the secondary characters and look forward to getting to know them better. Perfect filler novella!
ARC kindly provided by Barclay Publicity, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
***Quotes above are taken from the ARC version of the book and may differ upon publication.
“Yield, little fighter.”
Yield to Me is a hot little number about an amateur MMA fighter Marcy and Jax, a trained fight consultant. He is brought in to help Marcy get passed her mind block, every time she is put in a submissive position, she freezes. Denying her submissive sexual side, and fearing the repercussions of being her sexual nature has bled into her work life... freezing up could cost her, her life and it isn't something her friends or Jax is willing to risk. But Jax's a natural dominant, and his commands and words are more of a distraction than help...
He handled me like a doll, lifting me, turning me, putting me on top of him. I had no control, and I’m not weak by any means. I could move only when he let me move.
His words and action cause a different desire and need, instead of wanting to fight, she finds herself wishing...
Bite me. Hurt me. Spank me. Whip me.
Would giving in to her need, allow her to move on, or will emotions come to play and ruin it all...
Yield to Me is a quick read, insta-lust, high sexual tension, slow build to a big explosion. I enjoyed this read, but there was something missing for me, we were introduced to the reasons they are the way they are but the process on how they were able to overcome it was a tad bit rushed. There isn't much BDSM play, more toying with the idea of control and submission. It is a short book, so I wasn't expecting too much detail, but I still look to give me that sense of justification when all is said and done. I enjoyed the secondary characters and look forward to getting to know them better. Perfect filler novella!
ARC kindly provided by Barclay Publicity, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
***Quotes above are taken from the ARC version of the book and may differ upon publication.
April 26, 2015
Yield to me is the love story between Jax, an MMA coach (and ex-fighter) and licensed psychologist, and Marcy, an amateur badass MMA fighter. Jax is hired by her manager and friend Reid to coach her and help her with her training.
At the beginning, Marcy isn’t willing to follow his orders and his advice on her submission issues on ring. Marcy is a beautiful distraction and soon things heat up between them.
Jax, who practices BDSM, soon feels the need to sexually dominate her. She surrenders to Jax in every way; he is a dominant, and Marcy becomes his submissive, yielding her body to his every desire. She isn’t much experienced so she has the will to explore her submissive nature and bdsm play with him.
This book wasn’t what I expected. It had a little bit of everything, but that was also its weakness. It had a little bit of sport romance, fighting, angst and love. The storyline wasn’t deep enough and bdsm aspect was too light. Also, I needed more of Jax and Nancy’s history, of their family and secrets of the past. I liked the plot but I think it wasn’t enough developed, so I couldn’t connect with the main characters and feel their agony. It had a little bit of kink, dull dialogue and I felt it was a bit rushed. It was definitely interesting but I needed more information and deeper connection. It was an easy, light BDSM read, enough engaging and enjoyable!
I received a copy via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
At the beginning, Marcy isn’t willing to follow his orders and his advice on her submission issues on ring. Marcy is a beautiful distraction and soon things heat up between them.
Jax, who practices BDSM, soon feels the need to sexually dominate her. She surrenders to Jax in every way; he is a dominant, and Marcy becomes his submissive, yielding her body to his every desire. She isn’t much experienced so she has the will to explore her submissive nature and bdsm play with him.
This book wasn’t what I expected. It had a little bit of everything, but that was also its weakness. It had a little bit of sport romance, fighting, angst and love. The storyline wasn’t deep enough and bdsm aspect was too light. Also, I needed more of Jax and Nancy’s history, of their family and secrets of the past. I liked the plot but I think it wasn’t enough developed, so I couldn’t connect with the main characters and feel their agony. It had a little bit of kink, dull dialogue and I felt it was a bit rushed. It was definitely interesting but I needed more information and deeper connection. It was an easy, light BDSM read, enough engaging and enjoyable!
I received a copy via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
August 1, 2015
I love Castille’s take on MMA & the look at women fighting. It’s empowering without going overboard. The theme of accepting who you are and using it to your advantage also heightened my enjoyment of the story. I was absolutely entranced by Castille’s writing. I simply couldn’t look away. Not only is the story well written & edited, the plot is solid & exciting. Her narrative and descriptions bring this novella to life in a very vivid and enticing manner. The fight scenes are just as vivid and captivating and the erotic ones. Castille takes an extremely unique look at the world of domination and submission, creating a unique niche for herself in a flooded market.
The dual perspectives in this tale gives a well-rounded impression of the main characters and their stories. The contrast & similarities between the two makes you see how they’d make a great couple, while their antagonism towards one another sets the chemistry aflame. Backed by the family and loyalty at Excelsior, these characters really make you want to come back for more.
Castille’s work never fails to captivate her audience but she steps above and beyond with this one. It is a fantastic start to a series that I will be avidly following. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this to others.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
The dual perspectives in this tale gives a well-rounded impression of the main characters and their stories. The contrast & similarities between the two makes you see how they’d make a great couple, while their antagonism towards one another sets the chemistry aflame. Backed by the family and loyalty at Excelsior, these characters really make you want to come back for more.
Castille’s work never fails to captivate her audience but she steps above and beyond with this one. It is a fantastic start to a series that I will be avidly following. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this to others.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
December 17, 2015
this was a phenomenaly written novella.
short by number of pages but very well paced in content, I never felt I was being rushed by the flow of the story...
it was about chemistry, lust, dealing with personal issues that one must overcome to be "the best" in and out, personaly and professionaly...
and I have a soft spot for men in sports of any kind...
all I can say now, in a yielding manner, is this:
"hi, my name is Snježana and I'm a MMA fighter addict..."
short by number of pages but very well paced in content, I never felt I was being rushed by the flow of the story...
it was about chemistry, lust, dealing with personal issues that one must overcome to be "the best" in and out, personaly and professionaly...
and I have a soft spot for men in sports of any kind...
all I can say now, in a yielding manner, is this:
"hi, my name is Snježana and I'm a MMA fighter addict..."
April 29, 2015
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Yield to Me (Club Excelsior, #1) by Sarah Castille
PLOT: 4
CHARACTERS: 4
COVER: 4
OVERALL RATING: 4
Yield To Me was a great book which was has a very unique plot because female MMA fighters are something that I haven't ever read in a book before. Although it was a novella, I didn't feel anything was rushed which usually happens when it comes to novellas and it's something that I was very thankful for.
The characters were very well written and there decisions were something that I could relate to making them more real to me.
Although I have never read any book by Castille, I was still able to enjoy the book.
Received digital edition from publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Yield to Me (Club Excelsior, #1) by Sarah Castille
PLOT: 4
CHARACTERS: 4
COVER: 4
OVERALL RATING: 4
Yield To Me was a great book which was has a very unique plot because female MMA fighters are something that I haven't ever read in a book before. Although it was a novella, I didn't feel anything was rushed which usually happens when it comes to novellas and it's something that I was very thankful for.
The characters were very well written and there decisions were something that I could relate to making them more real to me.
Although I have never read any book by Castille, I was still able to enjoy the book.
Received digital edition from publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
June 15, 2014
Sarah does it again! Loved this book.
A lot of attraction, a little BDSM, great characters.
BRING ON BOOK 2!
A lot of attraction, a little BDSM, great characters.
BRING ON BOOK 2!
June 1, 2015
Kitty's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
Wow ... Jax had me the minute he walked into the ring. Strong, capable, hot, muscled male. Dominate in the way he takes control of Marcy when he firsts meets her and even more dominate when he takes control of her out of the ring.
Jax always kept his private and professional life separate. He doesn't stay in one place to make attachments. But, he may have met the one person who has him thinking about putting down roots again. Now, can he train her to go to the championships without letting the lines blur between submissive and submission.
Marcy has a deep dark secret. She wants kink. She actually needs it. In the ring, she's a fierce fighter, she can hold her own until the minute her opponent puts her in a submission hold. He mind turns off and she gives in. She has no idea how to stop this from happening. Jax ... the one man that could fulfill her and her need for kink. But, as he tells her that she's a Submissive and may never get over her problems in the ring, she knows that there is no way that she could train with him or be with him again. It's time to overcome her fear and face the problem head on.
Good Lord! What a pair these two made. There was no way that they were going to keep their hands to themselves outside of the MMA ring. The electricity between the two of them jumped off my Kindle the first time they layed eyes on each other. And, it's Sarah Castille writing this story.
I knew that this would be a great read with hot sex, a hot male and a strong female. The three predominate things that make a story interesting. But, what Sarah does best is bring these three main ingredients and mixes them with a story that will always keep you captivated. Her back-stories and her style of writing always have me looking for a new book by her. I know that I will pick the book up and not put it down until I'm finished with it. She always has a way of holding my attention and bringing me an ending that not only satisfies my cravings but keeps me craving more.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
Wow ... Jax had me the minute he walked into the ring. Strong, capable, hot, muscled male. Dominate in the way he takes control of Marcy when he firsts meets her and even more dominate when he takes control of her out of the ring.
Jax always kept his private and professional life separate. He doesn't stay in one place to make attachments. But, he may have met the one person who has him thinking about putting down roots again. Now, can he train her to go to the championships without letting the lines blur between submissive and submission.
Marcy has a deep dark secret. She wants kink. She actually needs it. In the ring, she's a fierce fighter, she can hold her own until the minute her opponent puts her in a submission hold. He mind turns off and she gives in. She has no idea how to stop this from happening. Jax ... the one man that could fulfill her and her need for kink. But, as he tells her that she's a Submissive and may never get over her problems in the ring, she knows that there is no way that she could train with him or be with him again. It's time to overcome her fear and face the problem head on.
Good Lord! What a pair these two made. There was no way that they were going to keep their hands to themselves outside of the MMA ring. The electricity between the two of them jumped off my Kindle the first time they layed eyes on each other. And, it's Sarah Castille writing this story.
I knew that this would be a great read with hot sex, a hot male and a strong female. The three predominate things that make a story interesting. But, what Sarah does best is bring these three main ingredients and mixes them with a story that will always keep you captivated. Her back-stories and her style of writing always have me looking for a new book by her. I know that I will pick the book up and not put it down until I'm finished with it. She always has a way of holding my attention and bringing me an ending that not only satisfies my cravings but keeps me craving more.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
April 19, 2015
I think she should sell sport gym memberships... I' in
Want to read
June 3, 2014Just bought this. I hope it's good!! *prays*
October 19, 2014
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ADD TO GOODREADS
Another 5 star Sizzler!!!
I was totally sucked in right away with this steamy and energetic read. A female fighter. But a submissive in the bedroom. Wow what a combination. I loved the passion of these fighters. How Jax and Marcy couldn't fight their chemistry and for every time they tried it just consumed them. Some really steamy scenes and this one burned up my kindle.
Sarah writes MMA romance like no other and this one may have been a shorter story but didn't lack in depth and romance. When the fights started it felt like I was there and I found myself holding my breath quite a few times. I'm a Sarah Castille addict and my name is Nichole
Nichole's Sizzling Reviews
Sizzling Pages @ Facebook
Twitter:@Sizzlingpages
Email: sizzlingpages@gmail.com
ADD TO GOODREADS
Another 5 star Sizzler!!!
I was totally sucked in right away with this steamy and energetic read. A female fighter. But a submissive in the bedroom. Wow what a combination. I loved the passion of these fighters. How Jax and Marcy couldn't fight their chemistry and for every time they tried it just consumed them. Some really steamy scenes and this one burned up my kindle.
Sarah writes MMA romance like no other and this one may have been a shorter story but didn't lack in depth and romance. When the fights started it felt like I was there and I found myself holding my breath quite a few times. I'm a Sarah Castille addict and my name is Nichole
May 31, 2014
I have to say between the innuendos and the heat between Jax and Marcy this is the naughtiest book Sarah has written thus far and well I enjoyed every minute of it, and especially that first encounter with the two characters, "on your back. Legs apart. I'll mount you and take the dominant position." She startled at his abrupt command, and heat flooded her veins, pooling between her thighs. Flustered at her body's unexpected response to words she heard every day in practice," Jax he's a total dominant you can get that feeling from how he walks, acts, and talks, "wrong." He cupped her cheek, tracing along the curve of her jaw with his thumb, burning a trail across her skin, his gaze intent, focused. "I came to set things right between you and Reid and convince you to train with me, and yet somehow I wound up asking you out for dinner. But dinner isn't really what I want." I get the feeling the boy isn't really fond of the panties Marcy wears, "eff." Jax slammed her against the door and slide his fingers along the edge of her panties. "You got any sentimental attachment to these?" Sometimes the boy has to find a way to convince his woman that he loves her, and what better way than show her, "he clasped her hand and skimmed it down his body to the bulge in his jeans. "Definitely hard enough." I love reading Sarah's books because you never know what you're going to get, one minute it can be a semi-sweet story the next a naughty one such as this. I know that she has a reader for life.
March 30, 2015
Interesting, steamy story. We have Marcy, who wants to be a pro fighter, but she's a sexual submissive, so when an opponent puts a submissive hold on her, she freezes, which can be devastating both to her career as well as her health. Even when not in the ring, she tries to hide her sexual nature, because it's only caused her problems in the past. Her coach brought Jax in to help her get past this submissive hold issue. Wouldn't you know, he's a sexual dominant and recognizes Marcy's submissive nature right away. Cue the fireworks. Problem is, Jax never stays in one place for too long. If he can't get close to anyone, it can't hurt so bad when they're gone, right? But something about Marcy calls to him. I was happy with where this ended up. I'm not certain I'll continue the series, but it was definitely interesting.
May 9, 2015
YIELD TO ME is a quick enjoyable read with a nice twist in that the heroine is a MMA fighter as well. This is the first time that I have read one of the sports romances where the heroine is actually part of all of the physical action. Marcy is determined to be a success at her chosen passion despite feeling that she is a disappointment to her family. Jax is a no nonsense coach that is willing to push Marcy out of her comfort zone both in and out of the ring. Castille definitely has a nice way of weaving a realistic plot with a bit of steaminess which made this short read a winner for me. YIELD TO ME is a nice set up to Castille's new series and I will definitely be sticking around for more of the action!
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
You can find more from me at Monlatable Book Reviews
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
You can find more from me at Monlatable Book Reviews
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
June 11, 2015
**Copy provided by Barclay Publicity via NetGalley for an honest review**
Two things: a female MMA fighter who is submissive in the bedroom. Is there anything else you need to know? Because that right there should be enough to intrigue the heck out of you. It did me! AND, it's not overly long as well. So if you haven't had a taste of Sarah Castille's work, then this is a phenomenal place to start!
I've already read her greatness and I am slowly and steadily becoming an addict! This woman can write some STEAM ya'll! YIKES! The passion between Jax and Marcy was like fireworks IN the ring and OUT! What a fantastic read! Great start to what I KNOW will be an excellent series!
Two things: a female MMA fighter who is submissive in the bedroom. Is there anything else you need to know? Because that right there should be enough to intrigue the heck out of you. It did me! AND, it's not overly long as well. So if you haven't had a taste of Sarah Castille's work, then this is a phenomenal place to start!
I've already read her greatness and I am slowly and steadily becoming an addict! This woman can write some STEAM ya'll! YIKES! The passion between Jax and Marcy was like fireworks IN the ring and OUT! What a fantastic read! Great start to what I KNOW will be an excellent series!
May 24, 2015
ARC received via NetGalley
I enjoyed this book. It was a quick, hot little read. I liked the combination of dominate/submissive and fighting. I liked the plot but felt that it wasn't developed enough and I felt like you couldn't completely connect to the characters. Overall, I thought the book was a bit short...I would have liked for it to have been longer. I also wanted more background on the characters to be able to know them better plus more of the bdsm element as I thought there wasn't enough of it.
I enjoyed this book. It was a quick, hot little read. I liked the combination of dominate/submissive and fighting. I liked the plot but felt that it wasn't developed enough and I felt like you couldn't completely connect to the characters. Overall, I thought the book was a bit short...I would have liked for it to have been longer. I also wanted more background on the characters to be able to know them better plus more of the bdsm element as I thought there wasn't enough of it.
March 31, 2015
ARC received for review
I almost never read the publisher notes before the actually book, but I did this time. I found out that this was originally a novella published in Unraveled. It said that it was 50% new. I just wish the new part had included a better ending. I liked it but his halfway BDSM and her fighting his training just got old. I will read the next book in the series cause I'm hoping it will be Reid.
I almost never read the publisher notes before the actually book, but I did this time. I found out that this was originally a novella published in Unraveled. It said that it was 50% new. I just wish the new part had included a better ending. I liked it but his halfway BDSM and her fighting his training just got old. I will read the next book in the series cause I'm hoping it will be Reid.
November 6, 2014
Absolutely loved this short, definitely hot story - with the MMA fighter being a woman this time. I love Sarah's books - and this one did not disappoint at all. Can't wait for more from this series.
December 30, 2015
i wish it was a bit longer though - however for a short book she packed a lot in
December 12, 2024
WHERE IS THE 2ND BOOK....I NEED IT
May 25, 2017
I've promoted Sarah Castille's books over and over. This is my 1st time getting down the business and finding the mins. to start reading one of her must read books ... I loved this read. Such a fan. I would say there are NOT going to be many folks who will not fall in lust or love with Jax, hot ... steamy-ness fill up these pages. Such a great read, couldn't put it down. Can't wait to see where this series goes . . .
( :
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April 15, 2015
Review copy courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley.
I'm definitely a fan of this author and of her Redemption series. I'm such a big fan that I chose this book, knowing that it was a novella! Of course, the last time I checked, it was NOT listed as a novella but as Book 1 of her new Club Excelsior series. To me, 106 pages is a novella, but what do I know? ;)
Marcy is a heroine unlike any I've read before. She's training to be an MMA fighter. I love strong heroines so it was easy for me to like her from the start. As the book progressed, I never stopped liking her but I felt like maybe, just maybe, she lost some of her femininity. But that could definitely be my OWN bias coming in to play so I don't put too much stock in those feelings. Marcy is a natural submissive (sexually) so she's having some issues with her submission game inside the ring. It was fun but also occasionally frustrating to watch her struggle with and work on these issues both inside and outside of the ring.
Jax seemed to be a pretty cool guy. I felt like I didn't get enough of his history though. There was some of his personal history, like his mom and sister, but not much beyond that. As it was, I really liked Jax because not only was he an MMA fighter, he was also a licensed psychologist! What a great idea! To have a coach who knows MMA in and out and also can help fighters with their mental game could be an essential part of a fighter's team. I've never even thought of it but it's brilliant! I liked that even though Jax is a psychologist, he's no expert on relationships or in handling women. I think he would have come off smarmy and less likable if he was. He had a good mix of knowledge and cluelessness that made him kind of irresistible!
The Sexy Time between Marcy and Jax was pretty hot. There wasn't a lot of it but I didn't worry about that with the book only being 106 pages. There's a little BDSM exploration and I think it wouldn't be too much for those who are uninitiated into the BDSM romance world. Jax is just a little bossy. LOL! There wasn't a lot of time for their relationship to grow slowly and naturally so a lot of the relationship building stuff happens when they're apart. Weird, I know, but it worked!
I don't like short books. I feel like I needed more time and more information to know Marcy and Jax better. I think this book would have been better if it was longer. But if I'm going to judge this book for what it IS instead of what I wanted it to be, I'd say that I enjoyed it. There's quite a bit of MMA practice and a couple of fights so although a love of MMA is not even remotely necessary, potential readers should be open to it...or at least not turned off by it! Great secondary characters who provide comic relief were a lot of fun too. I think this author is continuing to tell great stories and as long as the next book is closer to 200 pages, I'll definitely be continuing on with this series! LOL!
I'm definitely a fan of this author and of her Redemption series. I'm such a big fan that I chose this book, knowing that it was a novella! Of course, the last time I checked, it was NOT listed as a novella but as Book 1 of her new Club Excelsior series. To me, 106 pages is a novella, but what do I know? ;)
Marcy is a heroine unlike any I've read before. She's training to be an MMA fighter. I love strong heroines so it was easy for me to like her from the start. As the book progressed, I never stopped liking her but I felt like maybe, just maybe, she lost some of her femininity. But that could definitely be my OWN bias coming in to play so I don't put too much stock in those feelings. Marcy is a natural submissive (sexually) so she's having some issues with her submission game inside the ring. It was fun but also occasionally frustrating to watch her struggle with and work on these issues both inside and outside of the ring.
Jax seemed to be a pretty cool guy. I felt like I didn't get enough of his history though. There was some of his personal history, like his mom and sister, but not much beyond that. As it was, I really liked Jax because not only was he an MMA fighter, he was also a licensed psychologist! What a great idea! To have a coach who knows MMA in and out and also can help fighters with their mental game could be an essential part of a fighter's team. I've never even thought of it but it's brilliant! I liked that even though Jax is a psychologist, he's no expert on relationships or in handling women. I think he would have come off smarmy and less likable if he was. He had a good mix of knowledge and cluelessness that made him kind of irresistible!
The Sexy Time between Marcy and Jax was pretty hot. There wasn't a lot of it but I didn't worry about that with the book only being 106 pages. There's a little BDSM exploration and I think it wouldn't be too much for those who are uninitiated into the BDSM romance world. Jax is just a little bossy. LOL! There wasn't a lot of time for their relationship to grow slowly and naturally so a lot of the relationship building stuff happens when they're apart. Weird, I know, but it worked!
I don't like short books. I feel like I needed more time and more information to know Marcy and Jax better. I think this book would have been better if it was longer. But if I'm going to judge this book for what it IS instead of what I wanted it to be, I'd say that I enjoyed it. There's quite a bit of MMA practice and a couple of fights so although a love of MMA is not even remotely necessary, potential readers should be open to it...or at least not turned off by it! Great secondary characters who provide comic relief were a lot of fun too. I think this author is continuing to tell great stories and as long as the next book is closer to 200 pages, I'll definitely be continuing on with this series! LOL!
May 2, 2015
Well to be honest, I read this one a few days ago and I'm not completely sure how I feel about it. Did I like it? Yes. Did it hold my attention? Yes. Were the sexy times smoking hot? Hell yes! But, unfortunately I found the characters and the romance lacking... All that said, that makes writing a review kinda difficult.
So let's start with the story... Jax is a former fighter turned coach that was brought into Club Excelsior to work with a couple of fighters, including up and coming MMA fighter Marcy, for a couple weeks. Yes, you heard that right... The heroine is the fighter in this romance and I absolutely loved that aspect. There's an instant attraction between Jax and Marcy that has both of them questioning whether or not working together is actually a good idea, and while both attempt to keep it professional they fail miserably.
Which brings us to the sexy times and let me tell you, Ms. Castille did not disappoint in that particular department. Marcy is a natural submissive in the bedroom but after being burned by her ex, she tries to hide that part of herself from others. Jax is naturally controlling and can tell right away what kind of kink Marcy is into. And when these two bring out each others desire? Explosive!
Because this is novella length we don't get a lot of character development which is one of my main issues with this book. I really didn't connect with Marcy or Jax, and other than loving that Marcy was kickass, I didn't really care for them one way or the other.
My other issue is the relationship between the two... The insta-lust was apparent but other than that I didn't find the romance believable. I mean, they hang out for a couple weeks, have sex a couple times, but they really end up spending more of the book apart than they do together. We get a nice HFN ending, but in the end it didn't satisfy my need for more.
I know there are more books planned for this series but I'm not sure if they're a continuation of Jax and Marcy's story or if they'll revolve around other Club Excelsior fighters. I can say that I'll probably at least check out the next one though to see where this series goes.
*ARC kindly provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
So let's start with the story... Jax is a former fighter turned coach that was brought into Club Excelsior to work with a couple of fighters, including up and coming MMA fighter Marcy, for a couple weeks. Yes, you heard that right... The heroine is the fighter in this romance and I absolutely loved that aspect. There's an instant attraction between Jax and Marcy that has both of them questioning whether or not working together is actually a good idea, and while both attempt to keep it professional they fail miserably.
Which brings us to the sexy times and let me tell you, Ms. Castille did not disappoint in that particular department. Marcy is a natural submissive in the bedroom but after being burned by her ex, she tries to hide that part of herself from others. Jax is naturally controlling and can tell right away what kind of kink Marcy is into. And when these two bring out each others desire? Explosive!
Because this is novella length we don't get a lot of character development which is one of my main issues with this book. I really didn't connect with Marcy or Jax, and other than loving that Marcy was kickass, I didn't really care for them one way or the other.
My other issue is the relationship between the two... The insta-lust was apparent but other than that I didn't find the romance believable. I mean, they hang out for a couple weeks, have sex a couple times, but they really end up spending more of the book apart than they do together. We get a nice HFN ending, but in the end it didn't satisfy my need for more.
I know there are more books planned for this series but I'm not sure if they're a continuation of Jax and Marcy's story or if they'll revolve around other Club Excelsior fighters. I can say that I'll probably at least check out the next one though to see where this series goes.
*ARC kindly provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 28, 2015
Goodness gracious, I am absolutely falling in love with Sarah Castille and her amazing writing. It doesn’t hurt that her men are deliciously alpha or that her stories are action packed and smoking hot!
“You’re afraid of submission.”
Sarah’s fighter books have me hooked and while I am not usually a fan of novellas I just had to pick this one up. I admit my curiosity and love for all fighter books overtook my distaste for novellas and I am so glad that it did. Because this short and arousing story was damn good!
“Some needs aren’t meant to be denied.”
Marcy is training for the state championship and Jax is her brand “spanking” new coach. (hehe) Jax and Marcy both feel an instant connection that makes rolling around on the mats during practice a bit awkward. Jax immediately sees the submissive in Marcy that she has yet to fully capitulate to. He wants to let Marcy’s naughty girl tendencies out but he has demons of his own and is apprehensive about crossing professional lines. But when he does, boy, this story heats up!
“Who’s in charge?”
“Yes, that’s right. Me. You do what I say when I say, and you get only what I want to give.”
The BDSM aspect of the story wasn’t over the top or unbelievable. It was very sensual and tastefully done. That is one of the main reasons I enjoy Sarah’s alphas so much. They do not come off and crass or trashy. They are just large and in charge with really big hearts.
“Should I spank you, little fighter? Punish you for hitting me?”
Even though Yield To Me is a novella, it in no way felt rushed or forced. The story was engaging and continued along at a normal and consistent pace. There is no cliffy. You get a complete story with endearing happily-ever-after. If you have enjoyed Sarah’s Redemption Series, then I definitely recommend picking this one up.
~Amie
“You’re afraid of submission.”
Sarah’s fighter books have me hooked and while I am not usually a fan of novellas I just had to pick this one up. I admit my curiosity and love for all fighter books overtook my distaste for novellas and I am so glad that it did. Because this short and arousing story was damn good!
“Some needs aren’t meant to be denied.”
Marcy is training for the state championship and Jax is her brand “spanking” new coach. (hehe) Jax and Marcy both feel an instant connection that makes rolling around on the mats during practice a bit awkward. Jax immediately sees the submissive in Marcy that she has yet to fully capitulate to. He wants to let Marcy’s naughty girl tendencies out but he has demons of his own and is apprehensive about crossing professional lines. But when he does, boy, this story heats up!
“Who’s in charge?”
“Yes, that’s right. Me. You do what I say when I say, and you get only what I want to give.”
The BDSM aspect of the story wasn’t over the top or unbelievable. It was very sensual and tastefully done. That is one of the main reasons I enjoy Sarah’s alphas so much. They do not come off and crass or trashy. They are just large and in charge with really big hearts.
“Should I spank you, little fighter? Punish you for hitting me?”
Even though Yield To Me is a novella, it in no way felt rushed or forced. The story was engaging and continued along at a normal and consistent pace. There is no cliffy. You get a complete story with endearing happily-ever-after. If you have enjoyed Sarah’s Redemption Series, then I definitely recommend picking this one up.
~Amie
March 29, 2015
“You’re afraid of submission”
Marcy Foster is an MMA fighter with Club Excelsior. She is in the middle of her training preparing for state championships when she heard those words. She doesn’t know this man standing here watching her. What is his deal anyway? She is at the top of her game she is 4-0 by knockout. Unaware that Reid hired him to help her. Marcy comes from a high achieving family. She likes fighting and doesn’t want to work on Wall Street like the rest of them. No she didn’t want that. She wanted the excitement of fighting she loves the thrill.
Jax Stratham stood watching Marcy he was to be her new coach if she was to go all the way with MMA she needed him she just doesn't know it yet. Reid Callaghan the owner of the Club Excelsior hired him for the next six weeks to help them up their game. Jax is an ex MMA fighter who is now using his psychology degree to help other fighters. He signed on for six weeks with Reid to help his team but Marcy has quickly become someone he wants to know more about. She is a distraction for him and he is for her.
Things heat up between Jax and Marcy she wants him and she knows he can handle her darkest fantasies. Jax knows what Marcy wants and what she needs he knows his dominant side is screaming to be let out with her. Strong sexual desires for each other a need to be dominated and a need to be submissive; she wants to submit to him. She needs to work out her issue in the ring otherwise she will lose the big fight! Can she do it?
This book rocked! I want more!!
Marcy Foster is an MMA fighter with Club Excelsior. She is in the middle of her training preparing for state championships when she heard those words. She doesn’t know this man standing here watching her. What is his deal anyway? She is at the top of her game she is 4-0 by knockout. Unaware that Reid hired him to help her. Marcy comes from a high achieving family. She likes fighting and doesn’t want to work on Wall Street like the rest of them. No she didn’t want that. She wanted the excitement of fighting she loves the thrill.
Jax Stratham stood watching Marcy he was to be her new coach if she was to go all the way with MMA she needed him she just doesn't know it yet. Reid Callaghan the owner of the Club Excelsior hired him for the next six weeks to help them up their game. Jax is an ex MMA fighter who is now using his psychology degree to help other fighters. He signed on for six weeks with Reid to help his team but Marcy has quickly become someone he wants to know more about. She is a distraction for him and he is for her.
Things heat up between Jax and Marcy she wants him and she knows he can handle her darkest fantasies. Jax knows what Marcy wants and what she needs he knows his dominant side is screaming to be let out with her. Strong sexual desires for each other a need to be dominated and a need to be submissive; she wants to submit to him. She needs to work out her issue in the ring otherwise she will lose the big fight! Can she do it?
This book rocked! I want more!!
July 15, 2015
Yield to Me by Sarah Castille is friendship, romance, fears, MMA, a little dab of light kink mixed in to 100 pages.
Marcy is fighter. A fighter that will do anything to get to the top. And she will get to the top, if she can just get past her fear of submission. When put in a submissive position on the mat, she freezes. Friend and gym owner hires a psychologist with unique ways to help Marcy work through these potentially deadly brain blocks. Jax is strong, confident, and definitely dominant. He wants to help Marcy. And even though strong willed Marcy wants nothing to do with him or his training, she cannot seem to fight the feelings that occur when they're together.
A few parts of this was slow for me and some of the friendships that Marcy had with the other gym guys felt too forced. However, the relationship between Jax and Marcy builds quickly and simmers. And Jax teaches her more about submisson - not only at the gym -- but in the bedroom. Some back story was given for the characters, but I was wanting a little more. I really enjoyed their love/lust moments, and would recommend this book for anyone looking for a quick, steamy read (who of course loves the MMA/fighter setting).
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishor for providing this copy in exchange for an honest review.
Marcy is fighter. A fighter that will do anything to get to the top. And she will get to the top, if she can just get past her fear of submission. When put in a submissive position on the mat, she freezes. Friend and gym owner hires a psychologist with unique ways to help Marcy work through these potentially deadly brain blocks. Jax is strong, confident, and definitely dominant. He wants to help Marcy. And even though strong willed Marcy wants nothing to do with him or his training, she cannot seem to fight the feelings that occur when they're together.
A few parts of this was slow for me and some of the friendships that Marcy had with the other gym guys felt too forced. However, the relationship between Jax and Marcy builds quickly and simmers. And Jax teaches her more about submisson - not only at the gym -- but in the bedroom. Some back story was given for the characters, but I was wanting a little more. I really enjoyed their love/lust moments, and would recommend this book for anyone looking for a quick, steamy read (who of course loves the MMA/fighter setting).
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishor for providing this copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 5, 2015
Yield to me was actually my very first Sarah Castille book and WOW was it hot and sexy. I am a sucker for a fighter book and Sarah did a great take on this with the heroine in the story being the fighter.
Jax is a sexy dominant alpha of a man and as it turns out Marcy's new coach who knows how to push all her buttons (even those she doesn't want to admit to wanting pushed.)
Marcy is a strong fighter but yearns to hand over some of the control and strength in the bedroom that she yields in the ring. When an ex she thought she could trust ruined that by making her ashamed of what she enjoys she decided to push all those thoughts aside and focus on becoming the best fighter she can be.
All Jax wants to do when he arrives at the gym is to teach Marcy how to submit when necessary when fighting but it doesn't take but a few touches between the two for him to see how much he wants her to submit elsewhere too.
This short read was super steamy and very well written. The characters grabbed me and got me all kinds of excited. I do wish there was more to it but for a first taste at a new series I can honestly say I am super excited to see how the secondary characters in this story develop in their own books.
Jax is a sexy dominant alpha of a man and as it turns out Marcy's new coach who knows how to push all her buttons (even those she doesn't want to admit to wanting pushed.)
Marcy is a strong fighter but yearns to hand over some of the control and strength in the bedroom that she yields in the ring. When an ex she thought she could trust ruined that by making her ashamed of what she enjoys she decided to push all those thoughts aside and focus on becoming the best fighter she can be.
All Jax wants to do when he arrives at the gym is to teach Marcy how to submit when necessary when fighting but it doesn't take but a few touches between the two for him to see how much he wants her to submit elsewhere too.
This short read was super steamy and very well written. The characters grabbed me and got me all kinds of excited. I do wish there was more to it but for a first taste at a new series I can honestly say I am super excited to see how the secondary characters in this story develop in their own books.
April 10, 2015
Having read two books in this author's Redemption series I was interested to see what she did with a new series where the books are shorter but still centred around MMA.
Yield to Me hooked me from the start. I like the tension between Jax and Marcy and want intrigued to see how their relationship would develop. There was a clear spark and chemistry with them and it was only enhanced by the fight training. I liked the fire Marcy had despite being a submissive.
However, whilst I like around two thirds of this book, it did lose my interest towards the end. I think it was because of the length really. The author kept throwing in statements like "couldn't save them" or "haven't spoken to them in years" but we never got to feel the pain or emotion. They were casual statements that didn't really bring anything to the book and I think it would have been better if they weren't included. It would have meant my attention probably would have stayed on the book rather than wishing for a deeper connection and more information.
Anyway, overall, whilst I preferred the author's other work, it was still an easy read. It was okay to break up the time and it may interest you.
Yield to Me hooked me from the start. I like the tension between Jax and Marcy and want intrigued to see how their relationship would develop. There was a clear spark and chemistry with them and it was only enhanced by the fight training. I liked the fire Marcy had despite being a submissive.
However, whilst I like around two thirds of this book, it did lose my interest towards the end. I think it was because of the length really. The author kept throwing in statements like "couldn't save them" or "haven't spoken to them in years" but we never got to feel the pain or emotion. They were casual statements that didn't really bring anything to the book and I think it would have been better if they weren't included. It would have meant my attention probably would have stayed on the book rather than wishing for a deeper connection and more information.
Anyway, overall, whilst I preferred the author's other work, it was still an easy read. It was okay to break up the time and it may interest you.
November 28, 2015
First, I've just got to pant a little over that cover. Holy cow but Yield to Me is fucking gorgeous! Total #Covergasm. And the set up was fantastic with Marcy being a female MMA fighter in training--you just don't see that often--and Jax coming in to consult on issues she was having. Unfortunately, the novella wasn't quite for me. I've been wanting to try Castille for a while now. Everything about her books so screams Anna! You must read me!! lol But I ended up not feeling much about this one overall. There was no spark for me. The romance was light, the sports a little too heavy, the characters didn't snag my attention. The sex was scorching hot though. Yums! I do want to try one of Castille's full length novels. Hopefully they'll click with me a bit better.
April 20, 2015
Yield to me was a wonderful and perfectly steamy novella. I have fallen head over heals in love with author Sarah Castille and her characters. This novella is Marcy and Jax’s story and I blew through every word in record time. I simply could not put it down.
Marcy is a wonderful, strong woman that is full of ambition and fire. Jax is supposed to be her coach and help her figure out how to tackle her demons so that she can finally win in the ring. Jax has a past he is also trying to run from. Will Marcy finally be the woman to get him to quit running away?
The chemistry between these two characters will have you fanning yourself from beginning to end. I loved every minute of reading this book. If I were to have just one critique, it would be that I wanted MORE! I always find myself feeling this way in a really well written short story and this was one of the best! Do yourself a favor and pick this one up!
Marcy is a wonderful, strong woman that is full of ambition and fire. Jax is supposed to be her coach and help her figure out how to tackle her demons so that she can finally win in the ring. Jax has a past he is also trying to run from. Will Marcy finally be the woman to get him to quit running away?
The chemistry between these two characters will have you fanning yourself from beginning to end. I loved every minute of reading this book. If I were to have just one critique, it would be that I wanted MORE! I always find myself feeling this way in a really well written short story and this was one of the best! Do yourself a favor and pick this one up!
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