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Outside the Ropes #1
Outside the Ropes
In the ring, Regan has control. Outside the ropes, she fights to survive.
Regan Sommers spent her life fighting. Fighting foster parents, kids in the group home, and classmates. But the night she has to fight for her life changes everything.
Now, she's fighting for money in the ring, and from the first punch she's addicted. Every addiction has a price though, and this one is the gym's star boxer, Gage Lawson. He may come in an enticing tattooed package, but his demands are more than she can handle.
The responding officer from that night, Anthony Fields, comes with no demands. He wants whatever she's willing to give, and Regan can handle that. She can definitely handle him.
But no help comes string free, and Regan's not the only one with a hard past and scars to cover. The life she was trying to escape is nothing compared to the danger she's in the middle of now, and she can't fight her way out.
***Reader please be aware: Story contains mature content such as: Drugs, sex, abuse, and explicit language that may be upsetting for some.****
Regan Sommers spent her life fighting. Fighting foster parents, kids in the group home, and classmates. But the night she has to fight for her life changes everything.
Now, she's fighting for money in the ring, and from the first punch she's addicted. Every addiction has a price though, and this one is the gym's star boxer, Gage Lawson. He may come in an enticing tattooed package, but his demands are more than she can handle.
The responding officer from that night, Anthony Fields, comes with no demands. He wants whatever she's willing to give, and Regan can handle that. She can definitely handle him.
But no help comes string free, and Regan's not the only one with a hard past and scars to cover. The life she was trying to escape is nothing compared to the danger she's in the middle of now, and she can't fight her way out.
***Reader please be aware: Story contains mature content such as: Drugs, sex, abuse, and explicit language that may be upsetting for some.****
345 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2015
323 people are currently reading
2182 people want to read
About the author
Ashley Claudy
7 books482 followersNew Adult Author.
New release, HUSTLE, will be published Nov 19th!
The Outside The Ropes Series:
http://amzn.com/B00Q7UR3B6
Outside The Ropes (Book 1)
Inside Danger (Book 2)
OtherSide Of Fear (Book 3)
Mother. Wife. Teacher. Proud UMD Terp. Perpetual learner. Wild imagination fueled by coffee. Occasional runner. Late night book junkie. Daytime dreamer.
New release, HUSTLE, will be published Nov 19th!
The Outside The Ropes Series:
http://amzn.com/B00Q7UR3B6
Outside The Ropes (Book 1)
Inside Danger (Book 2)
OtherSide Of Fear (Book 3)
Mother. Wife. Teacher. Proud UMD Terp. Perpetual learner. Wild imagination fueled by coffee. Occasional runner. Late night book junkie. Daytime dreamer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 187 reviews
February 11, 2015
★★★★ 3.5 - 4 Stars ★★★★
A great debut from Ashley Claudy, I had trouble putting this one down and will definitely recommend this to those who love a fast paced romantic suspense.
Regan Sommers is a nineteen year old girl struggling to survive after spending her childhood in the system. Her fortunes change however when she is mugged one night and makes the acquaintance of brothers, Gage and Dexter Lawson and their boxing trainer Silas. They see how strong she is and persuade her to come and fight for them in the women's boxing division.
Meanwhile, she finds herself in a relationship of sorts with the cop who was first on the scene at her attack and knowing she will never want anything serious with him, begins to use him for her own needs. Anthony offers her a place to stay when she needs somewhere to sleep and other benefits on top.
Her life seems to be on the up, she makes new friends within the boxing circle and she is starting to make decent money from her fights. Relationship lines are starting to blur with her and Anthony, and she also finds herself becoming attracted to Gage. Gage is quite indifferent towards her and you never really know what his feelings are but it's not long before he tells Regan that he wants her for himself.
Shit hits the fan quite considerably when Gage's history collides with Regan's present and he has to make some tough decisions in order to protect both her and his brother, Dexter. Regan is torn between helping her friend and standing by the man that has penetrated her heart so deeply.
_ _ _ _
This is very slow building romance but it's simmers quite nicely in the background whilst everything else that is going on in Regan's life is changing so rapidly. I really liked the side characters, especially Dexter - he is like the funny kid brother who want's everyone to be happy all the time.
If you are looking for a quick story where the MC's get together quite quickly and everything wraps up nicely then this probably isn't for you. It's quite a complex storyline and I am looking forward to continuing with books 2 & 3 to find out more about Gage's history within his criminal family.
Told in Regan's POV, this is the first in a trilogy and ends on a mild cliffhanger.
Review copy gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest review
A great debut from Ashley Claudy, I had trouble putting this one down and will definitely recommend this to those who love a fast paced romantic suspense.
Regan Sommers is a nineteen year old girl struggling to survive after spending her childhood in the system. Her fortunes change however when she is mugged one night and makes the acquaintance of brothers, Gage and Dexter Lawson and their boxing trainer Silas. They see how strong she is and persuade her to come and fight for them in the women's boxing division.
Meanwhile, she finds herself in a relationship of sorts with the cop who was first on the scene at her attack and knowing she will never want anything serious with him, begins to use him for her own needs. Anthony offers her a place to stay when she needs somewhere to sleep and other benefits on top.
Her life seems to be on the up, she makes new friends within the boxing circle and she is starting to make decent money from her fights. Relationship lines are starting to blur with her and Anthony, and she also finds herself becoming attracted to Gage. Gage is quite indifferent towards her and you never really know what his feelings are but it's not long before he tells Regan that he wants her for himself.
Shit hits the fan quite considerably when Gage's history collides with Regan's present and he has to make some tough decisions in order to protect both her and his brother, Dexter. Regan is torn between helping her friend and standing by the man that has penetrated her heart so deeply.
_ _ _ _
This is very slow building romance but it's simmers quite nicely in the background whilst everything else that is going on in Regan's life is changing so rapidly. I really liked the side characters, especially Dexter - he is like the funny kid brother who want's everyone to be happy all the time.
If you are looking for a quick story where the MC's get together quite quickly and everything wraps up nicely then this probably isn't for you. It's quite a complex storyline and I am looking forward to continuing with books 2 & 3 to find out more about Gage's history within his criminal family.
Told in Regan's POV, this is the first in a trilogy and ends on a mild cliffhanger.
Review copy gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest review
February 22, 2015
4 stars
Guess what it's time for?! a book review told through a bunch of gifs! YAY!
In this book, you will find...
an awesome heroine who kicks butt in and out of the ring
a mysterious and sexy hero...who is also a boxer...
a love triangle involving a cute cop who just can't seem to take a hint
a bunch of minor characters whose names I immediately forgot
a whole bunch of bad guys who DEF need to die
some sex scenes involving the heroine having meaningless sex...but were still hot nonetheless (good for her! about time a heroine takes what she wants!)
meaningful sex scenes that were steamy
and a cliffhanger that left me saying:
Highly recommend this book who would love to read a good action packed, sports themed, romance novel!
Guess what it's time for?! a book review told through a bunch of gifs! YAY!
In this book, you will find...
an awesome heroine who kicks butt in and out of the ring
a mysterious and sexy hero...who is also a boxer...
a love triangle involving a cute cop who just can't seem to take a hint
a bunch of minor characters whose names I immediately forgot
a whole bunch of bad guys who DEF need to die
some sex scenes involving the heroine having meaningless sex...but were still hot nonetheless (good for her! about time a heroine takes what she wants!)
meaningful sex scenes that were steamy
and a cliffhanger that left me saying:
Highly recommend this book who would love to read a good action packed, sports themed, romance novel!
December 10, 2015
Two words for ya....
This was not at all what I expected. I expected a sexy romance of a manwhore fighter and a downtrodden orphan female fighter. Although those shoes may fit, that barely scraped the surface of what all this book entails.
This story has layer after layer of angst, violence, f'd up baggage, distrust, mistrust, hard knocks, addiction, trauma, justice, guilt, immaturity, death, selfishness, selflessness, and pure craziness. It's like an angsty ghetto, boxing, mob soap opera.
This is me at the end...
Rare form, people! Rare form!
However, I can understand why this book will not appeal to some reader's personal tastes simply because of the topics it covers.
Triggers and Sensitive Subjects
A note to sensitive readers (slight spoilers on MC sexual activities):
This book has a LOT of violence, some very difficult to stomach and one that leads to death (not an MC.) There is graphic violence against three different women.
There is drug use (not an MC) and drugs sold.
The MCs have a hate/attraction/hate type of relationship for the first portion of the book. So, I'll warn for readers expecting no ow/om...
The author insinuates the male MC has sex with other women after meeting the female MC, but before they have any 'relationship' themselves. This is never written in detail and left open for the reader to make the assumption.
The female MC does have detailed sex and a quid pro quo relationship with another man after meeting the male MC, but, again, this is before they have a 'relationship' themselves.
This was not at all what I expected. I expected a sexy romance of a manwhore fighter and a downtrodden orphan female fighter. Although those shoes may fit, that barely scraped the surface of what all this book entails.
This story has layer after layer of angst, violence, f'd up baggage, distrust, mistrust, hard knocks, addiction, trauma, justice, guilt, immaturity, death, selfishness, selflessness, and pure craziness. It's like an angsty ghetto, boxing, mob soap opera.
This is me at the end...
Rare form, people! Rare form!
However, I can understand why this book will not appeal to some reader's personal tastes simply because of the topics it covers.
Triggers and Sensitive Subjects
A note to sensitive readers (slight spoilers on MC sexual activities):
This book has a LOT of violence, some very difficult to stomach and one that leads to death (not an MC.) There is graphic violence against three different women.
There is drug use (not an MC) and drugs sold.
The MCs have a hate/attraction/hate type of relationship for the first portion of the book. So, I'll warn for readers expecting no ow/om...
The author insinuates the male MC has sex with other women after meeting the female MC, but before they have any 'relationship' themselves. This is never written in detail and left open for the reader to make the assumption.
The female MC does have detailed sex and a quid pro quo relationship with another man after meeting the male MC, but, again, this is before they have a 'relationship' themselves.
September 30, 2019
{Δεύτερο βιβλίο: 2/5 Τρίτο: 2.5/5}
3.5/5 (no spoilers)
Να πω ότι αυτό το βιβλίο δεν είναι για όσους επηρεάζονται εύκολα από ζητήματα όπως βία και χρήση ναρκωτικών. Οι χαρακτήρες έχουν θέματα εμπιστοσύνης, εθισμό, ψυχικά τραύματα και κουβαλάνε πολλά ψυχολογικά. Το box δεν είναι και από τα πιο γλυκανάλατα σπορ που υπάρχουν και είναι μεγάλο μέρος της ιστορίας από την αρχή έως το τέλος. Επίσης έχει πολύ γραφικό σεξ και αρκετές φορές δεν είναι στο πλαίσιο μιας σχέσης ή friends with benefits. Όλα αυτά τα αναφέρω γιατί το πρότεινα σε μια φίλη και αφού το διάβασε είχε σχόλιο για όλα αυτά και άρα προφανώς δεν ήταν του στυλ της οπότε ενημερώνω
Η Regan (Κύρια χαρακτήρας) δεν είναι και από τα πιο συμπαθή άτομα. Τα ψυχολογικά που έχει επηρεάζουν άμεσα τη συμπεριφορά της το οποίο για εμένα ήταν ρεαλιστικό. Με όσα έχει περάσει και ζει η κοπέλα θα ήταν ψεύτικο να είναι μέσα στην τρελή χαρά. Είναι δυνατή και βάζει πάνω από όλα τον εαυτό της, ούτε θέλει να της λύνουν άλλοι τα προβλήματα. Ωστόσο καμιά φορά ήταν για χαστούκια. Επίσης δεν μπορούσα να πιστέψω ότι χωρίς να χαλαρώσει λίγο κάποιος την ερωτεύτηκε και μάλιστα τόσο γρήγορα. Έσπρωχνε τους πάντες μακριά της από την αρχή και όταν ήθελε γινόταν αδικαιολόγητα σκύλα.
Ο Cage (το ερωτικό ενδιαφέρον)μου ήταν πολύ συμπαθής χωρίς όμως να προσπαθεί να είναι. Έχει τα μυστικά του, έχει κάποιο παρελθόν και έχει και ο ίδιος τραύματα όμως πάντα έμοιαζε ότι το μυαλό του είναι στο έδαφος και ούτε ήταν υπερβολικός. Ναι έλεγε ψέματα για να επωφεληθεί ή να προστατεύσει κάποιον όμως δεν σε πειράζει γενικά γιατί αυτό τον έκανε πολύ πιστευτό. Ο καθένας μας θα έκανε το ίδιο στη θέση του κατά πάσα πιθανότητα. Επίσης αν και είχε χρήματα και φήμη πάντα φαινόταν χαμηλών τόνων και δεν άφηνε την αναγνώριση που είχε ως μποξέρ να επηρεάσει την καθημερινότητά του. Δεν της αξίζει της Regan κατά την γνώμη μου.
Τώρα θεωρώ θα πρέπει να παραβλέψετε κάποια πράγματα που δεν είναι τόσο ρεαλιστικά. Για παράδειγμα η Regan ποτέ δεν είχε κάνει μποξ ή κάποιοι είδους άθλημα παλαιότερα ωστόσο κερδίζει με άνεση τις πρώτες της μάχες απέναντι σε μακράν πιο έμπειρες κοπέλες που έχουν χρόνια εξάσκησης ήδη. Και η Regan και ο Cage δεν συμπεριφέρονται καθόλου σαν την ηλικία τους. Μας θύμιζε η συγγραφέας ότι αυτή είναι 19 και αυτός 23 και κάθε φορά η δυσπιστία μου έφτανε στον ουρανό. Η Regan φέρεται σαν είναι 30 και ο Cage έχει την σοφία και την εμπειρία ενός 40χρονου. Μάλιστα τους φανταζόμουν σε αυτές τις ηλικίες. Μου ήταν αδύνατο να πάω πιο κάτω βάσει αυτών που διάβαζα.
Το προτείνω?
Πάει κάπως γρήγορα δηλαδή θα μπορούσε να προσθέσει λίγο περισσότερο ζουμί στην ιστορία και να το τραβήξει. Βέβαια είχε αρκετές εκπλήξεις και suspense κατά τη διάρκεια και το cliffhanger στο τέλος σίγουρα σε κάνει να θες να πιάσεις το επόμενο. Δεν είναι και από τα πιο αξιομνημόνευτα βιβλία ωστόσο διαφέρει από κάθε τι άλλο διαβάζω συνήθως και μου κράτησε το ενδιαφέρον από την αρχή μέχρι το τέλος.
3.5/5 (no spoilers)
Να πω ότι αυτό το βιβλίο δεν είναι για όσους επηρεάζονται εύκολα από ζητήματα όπως βία και χρήση ναρκωτικών. Οι χαρακτήρες έχουν θέματα εμπιστοσύνης, εθισμό, ψυχικά τραύματα και κουβαλάνε πολλά ψυχολογικά. Το box δεν είναι και από τα πιο γλυκανάλατα σπορ που υπάρχουν και είναι μεγάλο μέρος της ιστορίας από την αρχή έως το τέλος. Επίσης έχει πολύ γραφικό σεξ και αρκετές φορές δεν είναι στο πλαίσιο μιας σχέσης ή friends with benefits. Όλα αυτά τα αναφέρω γιατί το πρότεινα σε μια φίλη και αφού το διάβασε είχε σχόλιο για όλα αυτά και άρα προφανώς δεν ήταν του στυλ της οπότε ενημερώνω
Η Regan (Κύρια χαρακτήρας) δεν είναι και από τα πιο συμπαθή άτομα. Τα ψυχολογικά που έχει επηρεάζουν άμεσα τη συμπεριφορά της το οποίο για εμένα ήταν ρεαλιστικό. Με όσα έχει περάσει και ζει η κοπέλα θα ήταν ψεύτικο να είναι μέσα στην τρελή χαρά. Είναι δυνατή και βάζει πάνω από όλα τον εαυτό της, ούτε θέλει να της λύνουν άλλοι τα προβλήματα. Ωστόσο καμιά φορά ήταν για χαστούκια. Επίσης δεν μπορούσα να πιστέψω ότι χωρίς να χαλαρώσει λίγο κάποιος την ερωτεύτηκε και μάλιστα τόσο γρήγορα. Έσπρωχνε τους πάντες μακριά της από την αρχή και όταν ήθελε γινόταν αδικαιολόγητα σκύλα.
Ο Cage (το ερωτικό ενδιαφέρον)μου ήταν πολύ συμπαθής χωρίς όμως να προσπαθεί να είναι. Έχει τα μυστικά του, έχει κάποιο παρελθόν και έχει και ο ίδιος τραύματα όμως πάντα έμοιαζε ότι το μυαλό του είναι στο έδαφος και ούτε ήταν υπερβολικός. Ναι έλεγε ψέματα για να επωφεληθεί ή να προστατεύσει κάποιον όμως δεν σε πειράζει γενικά γιατί αυτό τον έκανε πολύ πιστευτό. Ο καθένας μας θα έκανε το ίδιο στη θέση του κατά πάσα πιθανότητα. Επίσης αν και είχε χρήματα και φήμη πάντα φαινόταν χαμηλών τόνων και δεν άφηνε την αναγνώριση που είχε ως μποξέρ να επηρεάσει την καθημερινότητά του. Δεν της αξίζει της Regan κατά την γνώμη μου.
Τώρα θεωρώ θα πρέπει να παραβλέψετε κάποια πράγματα που δεν είναι τόσο ρεαλιστικά. Για παράδειγμα η Regan ποτέ δεν είχε κάνει μποξ ή κάποιοι είδους άθλημα παλαιότερα ωστόσο κερδίζει με άνεση τις πρώτες της μάχες απέναντι σε μακράν πιο έμπειρες κοπέλες που έχουν χρόνια εξάσκησης ήδη. Και η Regan και ο Cage δεν συμπεριφέρονται καθόλου σαν την ηλικία τους. Μας θύμιζε η συγγραφέας ότι αυτή είναι 19 και αυτός 23 και κάθε φορά η δυσπιστία μου έφτανε στον ουρανό. Η Regan φέρεται σαν είναι 30 και ο Cage έχει την σοφία και την εμπειρία ενός 40χρονου. Μάλιστα τους φανταζόμουν σε αυτές τις ηλικίες. Μου ήταν αδύνατο να πάω πιο κάτω βάσει αυτών που διάβαζα.
Το προτείνω?
Πάει κάπως γρήγορα δηλαδή θα μπορούσε να προσθέσει λίγο περισσότερο ζουμί στην ιστορία και να το τραβήξει. Βέβαια είχε αρκετές εκπλήξεις και suspense κατά τη διάρκεια και το cliffhanger στο τέλος σίγουρα σε κάνει να θες να πιάσεις το επόμενο. Δεν είναι και από τα πιο αξιομνημόνευτα βιβλία ωστόσο διαφέρει από κάθε τι άλλο διαβάζω συνήθως και μου κράτησε το ενδιαφέρον από την αρχή μέχρι το τέλος.
February 24, 2015
I started this novel with no expectations because Ashley Claudy is a new author to me and this is her debut book. I figured it would be another figher novel since there seems to be a bunch of them lately but I saw it on Netgalley and I liked the blurb and the cover. I thank Netgalley for giving me the novel in exchange for an honest review. I admit I was pleasantly surprised! Outside the Ropes was a fresh take on the fighter story and Ashley Claudy has a real talent for writing interesting characters with hidden depth and dark edges. She manages to keep the mystery surrounding her male lead until well into the book.
Both the MC's are incredibly relatible and you you can slide into their headspace and understand why they are doing/feeling all the things that keep the story moving forward. I really loved that Gage was not squeeky clean and that he too had a darkness that made him strive to be better. I also liked that he was very close to his brother and not combative. Regan was a real jumble there was a time or two I wanted to kick her a$$ but then she would become a stronger person and I loved her...then she would do something and I wanted to smack her again. I really felt that she lead Anthony on and I had some sympathy for him but later in the book ...he lost it. I won't tell you why you will have to read the book to find out. Gage's brother Dexter was a hoot and he had me laughing out loud and I have to say this character gave me the biggest "what the hell" moment in the novel. I love when things like this happen and you just don't see it coming.
Now there were a few things that kinda annoyed me. I thought there was a bunch time spent to build Regan up as a Boxer but in the last half of the book it was just dropped like a hot potato. I would have liked to see this used a bit more in the last half of the book. I also thought the whole room mate drooling over the hero was not really necessary. There were a few other places that the story or character could have been fleshed out a bit more and it would have added another dimension to the story.
This is a strong 4 star read for me and as a debut novel it was a fantastic read. I can't wait to dig into more Ashley Claudy novels as she writes them. Looking for a fighter novel with a difference I give this a sparkling recommendation!
Both the MC's are incredibly relatible and you you can slide into their headspace and understand why they are doing/feeling all the things that keep the story moving forward. I really loved that Gage was not squeeky clean and that he too had a darkness that made him strive to be better. I also liked that he was very close to his brother and not combative. Regan was a real jumble there was a time or two I wanted to kick her a$$ but then she would become a stronger person and I loved her...then she would do something and I wanted to smack her again. I really felt that she lead Anthony on and I had some sympathy for him but later in the book ...he lost it. I won't tell you why you will have to read the book to find out. Gage's brother Dexter was a hoot and he had me laughing out loud and I have to say this character gave me the biggest "what the hell" moment in the novel. I love when things like this happen and you just don't see it coming.
Now there were a few things that kinda annoyed me. I thought there was a bunch time spent to build Regan up as a Boxer but in the last half of the book it was just dropped like a hot potato. I would have liked to see this used a bit more in the last half of the book. I also thought the whole room mate drooling over the hero was not really necessary. There were a few other places that the story or character could have been fleshed out a bit more and it would have added another dimension to the story.
This is a strong 4 star read for me and as a debut novel it was a fantastic read. I can't wait to dig into more Ashley Claudy novels as she writes them. Looking for a fighter novel with a difference I give this a sparkling recommendation!
April 15, 2015
Advance Readers Copy (ARC) provide to me by the lovely author Ashley Claudy. Thank you
Title: Outside The Ropes
Series: Book #1
Author: Ashley Claudy
Page Length: 438
Genre: New Adult
Source: eARC
Release Date: January 1st, 2014
Overall Rating:
Character Casting:
Character casting & Review to come...
Title: Outside The Ropes
Series: Book #1
Author: Ashley Claudy
Page Length: 438
Genre: New Adult
Source: eARC
Release Date: January 1st, 2014
Overall Rating:
Character Casting:
Character casting & Review to come...
January 6, 2015
3.5 - 4 stars
I started this one expecting yet another "fighter" book but what we get is actually a fresh new take. While boxing has a strong hold during the story, it actually became an after thought for me while reading. It's the road our characters travel while doing it that is the more focal point.
We meet 19 year old Regan Sommers who has never had it easy in life and this is shown pretty much throughout the book. You can clearly see the effects it holds on all her relationships with the people around her, be it friends or romantically. She has major trust issues but you can't fault her that, I would too. While walking home after a shift at the resturant she works at, Regan is randomly attacked by a group of teenage boys. Because of the life she has lived, Regan has somewhat good knowledge of how to defend herself and fights back as much she can but is ultimately saved by 3 strangers who are leaving the building nearby. Which introduces us to our hero, Gage Lawson.
There are many things to like with this book, there is a bunch of great characters and some bad seeds that you just know are out to fuck everything up now that Regan is finally having good things happen. There was a few twists and turns I never saw coming and so many questions and stories left to come to light in the upcoming sequel. UGH, CLIFFHANGERS!!
An enjoyable debut novel, pacing is was good to start but I did notice it slowed down a little in the middle, it wasn't a burning up the pages romance just yet but there is a sequel so I am sure it's on the way with the way things progressed and were left hanging.
I started this one expecting yet another "fighter" book but what we get is actually a fresh new take. While boxing has a strong hold during the story, it actually became an after thought for me while reading. It's the road our characters travel while doing it that is the more focal point.
We meet 19 year old Regan Sommers who has never had it easy in life and this is shown pretty much throughout the book. You can clearly see the effects it holds on all her relationships with the people around her, be it friends or romantically. She has major trust issues but you can't fault her that, I would too. While walking home after a shift at the resturant she works at, Regan is randomly attacked by a group of teenage boys. Because of the life she has lived, Regan has somewhat good knowledge of how to defend herself and fights back as much she can but is ultimately saved by 3 strangers who are leaving the building nearby. Which introduces us to our hero, Gage Lawson.
There are many things to like with this book, there is a bunch of great characters and some bad seeds that you just know are out to fuck everything up now that Regan is finally having good things happen. There was a few twists and turns I never saw coming and so many questions and stories left to come to light in the upcoming sequel. UGH, CLIFFHANGERS!!
An enjoyable debut novel, pacing is was good to start but I did notice it slowed down a little in the middle, it wasn't a burning up the pages romance just yet but there is a sequel so I am sure it's on the way with the way things progressed and were left hanging.
Read
February 10, 2015I read about 35% of this book. It's a rambling story. There is a flashback that didn't feel right in the story. The heroine is sleeping with some sleazy cop. Barely know the hero. Heroine just doesn't seem smart. DNFing.
January 1, 2015
4.5 awesome debut novel hearts!
I'm going to say it again, I love discovering new authors! When Ashley emailed the blog about reading/reviewing her debut novel, one look at the synopsis told me that this one was going to be good!
In all honesty, I never put my iPad back down once I started reading it. These characters - oh goodness! So here are my pics for character casting ~
I seriously could not stop picturing Jennifer Garner during her Elektra phase when I was reading Regan. She is just a bad ass character with a crappy past but determined to make the best out of what life has dealt her.
Regan has spent most of her life in foster homes. No longer in the system, Regan questions every day where she will sleep, her only source of food coming from the restaurant she works at. One terrible night on the way to a friends couch, she becomes part of a ridiculous game of video taping the brutal beating of an unsuspecting victim. But Regan fights back. It doesn't matter that she is obviously outnumbered, every cell in her body refuses to be the victim, refuses to be brutalized again without going down fighting.
This is the exact moment that Regan's life changes forever. Anthony, the sweet, responsible cop, Silas, the gym owner and boxing manager, Gage, the tattooed, sex on a stick boxer, and Dexter, the goofy, playful younger brother of Gage, enters her life. After weeks of recovery, each one of these men will play a very important part in her future.
Anthony wants to be her knight in shining armor. He is consistently there, offering her a place to stay, a shoulder to lean on and eventually a man to fall in love with. When Regan makes it clear that she can't handle that kind of commitment, Anthony assures her that a friends with benefits relationship would be okay with him, but will it?
Silas co-owns The Boxing Club with Gage and offers Regan the chance of lifetime. He wants to train her and enter her into local boxing matches, guaranteeing her ongoing money and the ability to use her desire to fight back for a more worthwhile purpose. For the first time there is true hope for Regan. She can finally afford a place to live.
However with the training comes more and more time around Gage. This is the only draw back as the sexual tension is definitely there but Gage treats Regan with disdain all while moving closer and closer. Every bone in Regan's body knows that getting involved with Gage can only lead to disaster and possibly derail the one positive thing that has happened in her life.
But then an unexpected twist happens and danger like she has never known enters Regan's life changing everything she thought she knew about the people in her life and the choices she was set to make.
Will Regan give in to the temptation that is Gage or will she choose the safe and loving arms of Anthony? Will the danger lurking around the corner change everything that Regan was hoping for?
I expected this book to be out a fighter and how she got there but there was so much more to it. There is a significant amount of suspense (Gage likes to keep things close to his chest) and a whole love of steamy drama! There is a cliffhanger but it wasn't a throw your iPad across the room kinda cliff. You will definitely be left wanting more and craving to know what comes next. I truly can't wait to see what Ashley delivers next and totally fell for her writing style and story telling. Easily added to my must watch authors! OH! and the best part, she is really funny! I love when a book unexpectedly gives me a ridiculous amount of humor especially tied to a main character like Dex.
Favorite scene ever ~
(Backstory - Regan lives out of her backpack. Everything she owns can be found in there so she never leaves it)
➡ This and all reviews can be found on the blog at A Love Affair With Books.
I'm going to say it again, I love discovering new authors! When Ashley emailed the blog about reading/reviewing her debut novel, one look at the synopsis told me that this one was going to be good!
In all honesty, I never put my iPad back down once I started reading it. These characters - oh goodness! So here are my pics for character casting ~
I seriously could not stop picturing Jennifer Garner during her Elektra phase when I was reading Regan. She is just a bad ass character with a crappy past but determined to make the best out of what life has dealt her.
Regan has spent most of her life in foster homes. No longer in the system, Regan questions every day where she will sleep, her only source of food coming from the restaurant she works at. One terrible night on the way to a friends couch, she becomes part of a ridiculous game of video taping the brutal beating of an unsuspecting victim. But Regan fights back. It doesn't matter that she is obviously outnumbered, every cell in her body refuses to be the victim, refuses to be brutalized again without going down fighting.
This is the exact moment that Regan's life changes forever. Anthony, the sweet, responsible cop, Silas, the gym owner and boxing manager, Gage, the tattooed, sex on a stick boxer, and Dexter, the goofy, playful younger brother of Gage, enters her life. After weeks of recovery, each one of these men will play a very important part in her future.
Anthony wants to be her knight in shining armor. He is consistently there, offering her a place to stay, a shoulder to lean on and eventually a man to fall in love with. When Regan makes it clear that she can't handle that kind of commitment, Anthony assures her that a friends with benefits relationship would be okay with him, but will it?
Silas co-owns The Boxing Club with Gage and offers Regan the chance of lifetime. He wants to train her and enter her into local boxing matches, guaranteeing her ongoing money and the ability to use her desire to fight back for a more worthwhile purpose. For the first time there is true hope for Regan. She can finally afford a place to live.
However with the training comes more and more time around Gage. This is the only draw back as the sexual tension is definitely there but Gage treats Regan with disdain all while moving closer and closer. Every bone in Regan's body knows that getting involved with Gage can only lead to disaster and possibly derail the one positive thing that has happened in her life.
But then an unexpected twist happens and danger like she has never known enters Regan's life changing everything she thought she knew about the people in her life and the choices she was set to make.
Will Regan give in to the temptation that is Gage or will she choose the safe and loving arms of Anthony? Will the danger lurking around the corner change everything that Regan was hoping for?
I expected this book to be out a fighter and how she got there but there was so much more to it. There is a significant amount of suspense (Gage likes to keep things close to his chest) and a whole love of steamy drama! There is a cliffhanger but it wasn't a throw your iPad across the room kinda cliff. You will definitely be left wanting more and craving to know what comes next. I truly can't wait to see what Ashley delivers next and totally fell for her writing style and story telling. Easily added to my must watch authors! OH! and the best part, she is really funny! I love when a book unexpectedly gives me a ridiculous amount of humor especially tied to a main character like Dex.
Favorite scene ever ~
(Backstory - Regan lives out of her backpack. Everything she owns can be found in there so she never leaves it)
"Can Rea stay with one you tonight so that Trich can come home with me?"
"My bag and things are at your house," I interjected.
"Calm down Dora. You can go without your backpack for one night."
I dropped my head, to hide my amusement while giving him the middle finger.
Humor was clear in his voice as he continued, "I've got maps. We can get it in the morning. It's all good, Boots has this under control."
➡ This and all reviews can be found on the blog at A Love Affair With Books.
April 19, 2020
I always love it when I find a book that I just can’t put down. Work and everything else gets put on hold until I finish the book. This was definitely one of those books. From beginning to end, I was utterly sucked in, constantly wondering what is going to happen next. This was the first book I’ve read by Ashley Cluady, but it will absolutely not be the last!
I think my favorite thing about this book was that, that Regan was anything but a damsel in distress. She was strong and did anything she had to, to survive. Though you might always agree with what she does, you were always rooting for her to persevere. Regan never had a stable home or a steady income, but one night after being severely beaten, totally changes her life.
Regan gets invited to join a gym and is offered to fight. She agrees, needing the money right away because where she’s staying now isn’t really safe. She’ll do anything to get enough money to get away from her past and everything surrounding it.
When Regan meets Gage, you can almost feel the passion between the two. You know that once these two get together, they’re going to be hot and never be the same. But with Regan being Regan, she fights what she feels for Gage. She doesn’t want to be controlled by a man and she knows that he will try to take control.
Once Regan finally gives in to Gage, it’s like you expected. The pages explode with heat, but it doesn’t last long. Regan and Gage’s past collide and may just tear these two apart. Will they be able to be strong enough to fight their way to be together, or will the past have a stronger hold that rips them apart?
Like I said before I seriously loved this book! I’ve already pre-ordered book two and anxiously counting down the days until release so I can see what happens next with Regan and Gage. Though the ending is sort of a cliff hanger, DO NOT let it stop you from picking up this book! I have just become a HUGE fan of Ashely Claudy, and can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
**ARC was provided thru NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
I think my favorite thing about this book was that, that Regan was anything but a damsel in distress. She was strong and did anything she had to, to survive. Though you might always agree with what she does, you were always rooting for her to persevere. Regan never had a stable home or a steady income, but one night after being severely beaten, totally changes her life.
Regan gets invited to join a gym and is offered to fight. She agrees, needing the money right away because where she’s staying now isn’t really safe. She’ll do anything to get enough money to get away from her past and everything surrounding it.
When Regan meets Gage, you can almost feel the passion between the two. You know that once these two get together, they’re going to be hot and never be the same. But with Regan being Regan, she fights what she feels for Gage. She doesn’t want to be controlled by a man and she knows that he will try to take control.
Once Regan finally gives in to Gage, it’s like you expected. The pages explode with heat, but it doesn’t last long. Regan and Gage’s past collide and may just tear these two apart. Will they be able to be strong enough to fight their way to be together, or will the past have a stronger hold that rips them apart?
Like I said before I seriously loved this book! I’ve already pre-ordered book two and anxiously counting down the days until release so I can see what happens next with Regan and Gage. Though the ending is sort of a cliff hanger, DO NOT let it stop you from picking up this book! I have just become a HUGE fan of Ashely Claudy, and can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
**ARC was provided thru NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Want to read
March 12, 2017
FREE: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU
In the ring, Regan has control. Outside the ropes, she fights to survive.
Regan Sommers spent her life fighting. Fighting foster parents, kids in the group home, and classmates. But the night she has to fight for her life changes everything.
Now, she's fighting for money in the ring, and from the first punch she's addicted. Every addiction has a price though, and this one is the gym's star boxer, Gage Lawson. He may come in an enticing tattooed package, but his demands are more than she can handle.
The responding officer from that night, Anthony Fields, comes with no demands. He wants whatever she's willing to give, and Regan can handle that. She can definitely handle him.
But no help comes string free, and Regan's not the only one with a hard past and scars to cover. The life she was trying to escape is nothing compared to the danger she's in the middle of now, and she can't fight her way out.
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Want to read
April 22, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/22/2019)! 🎁
May 10, 2015
3.5 stars Review in progress
January 19, 2015
if it feels like wattpad, reads like wattpad, well, it is probably wattpad! And though wattpad can be edited, it still smells of wattpad. That does not mean the author does not have talent and won't be able to write better books later on. But Wattpad is published day after day, or week after week, and you expect suspense from such short passages. Wattpad readers want something amazing with every update, cliff hanging until the next chapter comes and they usually don't read back what was published a few days ago. The style therefore is emphatic, yet using simple words so that anyone may understand. Obviously, the book is meant for teenagers, not for adults. And it reminds me of After, though you have some differences. Gage is not abusive, neither is Anthony. The abuse and violence come from outside, Regan's past and the drug gangs surrounding some of her friends. Boxing is actually very secondary in the story. As usual now, it's the first part of a trilogy, and the other tomes will be published in a few weeks.
The heroine, Regan is not better than Charles Dickens' characters: no money, no home, no way to manage. But an I pod! Regan is miserable when she meets Gage, just after being attacked by four wild and violent teenagers. She's an orphan, has lived in foster homes her whole life, has been so badly hurt that she does not want to care for anybody anymore -but she will fall for Gage. A lo of twists and tuns (to be expected with Wattpad) until they find each other while their lives are threatened by drug gangs. Is the story believable? not if you think more than a minute. She has never boxed, but is so naturally talented that she will win her first fights, even against experienced girls. She is 19, but acts as if she were 36. Gage is 23 with the confidence, wisdom and experience of a 40-year-old man. His younger brother Dexter goes to college -but when? he trains every morning and parties every night... and deals with drugs during his free time.
They all get in trouble, deserved for some, not for the others, and... the rest is in the other books.
I did not like the violence underlying the book, mostly when think the readers will be teenagers. I did not like the huge part played by drug gangs. I did not like the complete lack of credibility of the book. I did not like the typos left (here for hear, or apostrophes missing, etc). I can believe boxing may be exciting for some, to watch or practice, but what an example! to hit another person just because you can? And, as usual, I did not like reading one third of a book.
The heroine, Regan is not better than Charles Dickens' characters: no money, no home, no way to manage. But an I pod! Regan is miserable when she meets Gage, just after being attacked by four wild and violent teenagers. She's an orphan, has lived in foster homes her whole life, has been so badly hurt that she does not want to care for anybody anymore -but she will fall for Gage. A lo of twists and tuns (to be expected with Wattpad) until they find each other while their lives are threatened by drug gangs. Is the story believable? not if you think more than a minute. She has never boxed, but is so naturally talented that she will win her first fights, even against experienced girls. She is 19, but acts as if she were 36. Gage is 23 with the confidence, wisdom and experience of a 40-year-old man. His younger brother Dexter goes to college -but when? he trains every morning and parties every night... and deals with drugs during his free time.
They all get in trouble, deserved for some, not for the others, and... the rest is in the other books.
I did not like the violence underlying the book, mostly when think the readers will be teenagers. I did not like the huge part played by drug gangs. I did not like the complete lack of credibility of the book. I did not like the typos left (here for hear, or apostrophes missing, etc). I can believe boxing may be exciting for some, to watch or practice, but what an example! to hit another person just because you can? And, as usual, I did not like reading one third of a book.
January 11, 2016
Why oh why do I break my rules when it always ends in disappointment? This book started of great super tough heroine who had the spotlight an interesting backstory being hinted at. I didn't like the love interest at the start and the writing was a little stiff but i was very intrigued by the idea of such a powerful heroine so i powered through. Then around 30/40% it went to shit. The author just crapped all over the very idea of spellcheck and had no clue how to use apostrophes or to/too and effect/affect (like literally was used incorrectly every single time). But because i was so intrigued i once again broke my 5 error rule and was quite unhappy with the results. What started off as a powerful story focused on the strength of the heroine turned into a love sick girl making questionable choices for the boy who let's face it was the real focus of the story. Don't let the blurb fool you this is not a story about a female boxer. That was just a way to get the couple together once they are its pretty much all about the hero. We never actually get the backstory that's hinted at and it ended on a pretty shitty cliffhanger which is obnoxious since there's 0 chance of me reading the next one so i'll never know what happened. The sex scenes in the second half were hot but the ones in the first half were a little disturbing in their total detachedness (is that a word?). The couple really didn't work together-he had no concept of how to be a partner despite his use of the l-word and she either didn't trust enough or trusted to much depending on the part of the book. The plot had potential but it was ruined by sloppy execution both substantively and syntactically. Wouldn't recommend
April 13, 2015
4+*
Wow, this book really took me by surprised! If you're looking for a raw, gritty, story with a strong, take-no-prisoners heroine, this is the book for you.
Regan hasn't had the best life, she was bounced around in the foster care system before finally emancipating herself. She's surrounded by lowlife characters, druggies, and crooks, not knowing where she'll sleep from one night to the next, but she's doing the best she can for herself.
One night her world is turned upside down, and as a result she's presented with an opportunity to take control of her life and maybe, finally, make something of herself/for herself.
This book is not an easy read, it's tough at times to see what she goes through, and some of the choices she makes for herself. She has people who are on her side now, but she doesn't easily trust...she still does what she wants, on her own terms.
So many intense feelings and emotions were going through me as I read, I was completely sucked into Regan's world. I wanted her to do some things differently, but totally understand why she did what she did. I was happy to see her finally opening up a bit as the book went along, letting someone in and care for her- not just there for a bit of fun. Although she still isn't able to let the walls completely down, she is slowly believing that maybe there are people out to help her, not just out get her.
I cannot wait to read the rest of this series...I need, and want more, of Regan and Gage's story, I need to know how things turn out for everyone involved.
Wow, this book really took me by surprised! If you're looking for a raw, gritty, story with a strong, take-no-prisoners heroine, this is the book for you.
Regan hasn't had the best life, she was bounced around in the foster care system before finally emancipating herself. She's surrounded by lowlife characters, druggies, and crooks, not knowing where she'll sleep from one night to the next, but she's doing the best she can for herself.
One night her world is turned upside down, and as a result she's presented with an opportunity to take control of her life and maybe, finally, make something of herself/for herself.
This book is not an easy read, it's tough at times to see what she goes through, and some of the choices she makes for herself. She has people who are on her side now, but she doesn't easily trust...she still does what she wants, on her own terms.
So many intense feelings and emotions were going through me as I read, I was completely sucked into Regan's world. I wanted her to do some things differently, but totally understand why she did what she did. I was happy to see her finally opening up a bit as the book went along, letting someone in and care for her- not just there for a bit of fun. Although she still isn't able to let the walls completely down, she is slowly believing that maybe there are people out to help her, not just out get her.
I cannot wait to read the rest of this series...I need, and want more, of Regan and Gage's story, I need to know how things turn out for everyone involved.
February 5, 2015
First, I'm the author so... I love Outside The Ropes. But here's some teasers to help you decide if you want to give it a chance.
January 3, 2015
I could not put this book down. I loved everything about it. The characters and the story line had me drawn in from the very beginning. Once you thought you knew where the story was going, there was a twist and threw you off. Anyone looking for a good book with a great story, this is for you. I am definitely looking forward to the next installment.
January 9, 2015
Couldn't stand either of the MCs, they both made stupid decisions and were thick as pig shit.
And don't even get me started on the heroine's tendencies to use and abuse everyone in her life and push people away! ARGH!
Will definitely NOT be reading book 2.
And don't even get me started on the heroine's tendencies to use and abuse everyone in her life and push people away! ARGH!
Will definitely NOT be reading book 2.
July 30, 2022
2/3 of the book was so good. Didn't like where it was going after that
March 28, 2025
I don’t know why I even finished this book. I didn’t like a single character and literally never understood the plot. I had no idea who people were, and it wasn’t explained until like 80% but even then I was like I don’t even care to understand it. Honestly this book just made me mad.
Also I assumed this series was gonna be a different book ab each character in their world, not a trilogy ab this same plot. IMO only fantasy, dystopian, etc type books need more than one book.
Idk how people gave this 5 stars.
Also I assumed this series was gonna be a different book ab each character in their world, not a trilogy ab this same plot. IMO only fantasy, dystopian, etc type books need more than one book.
Idk how people gave this 5 stars.
May 15, 2015
Where the hell do I begin?!
Heartbreaking.
Sexy.
Hot.
Unforgiving.
Intense.
Sad.
Raw.
Beautiful.
Powerful.
Just simply too good to pass up
I absolutely got addicted and hooked from the first page, not kidding in the least! First I just want to say that I do not give 5 stars that often but with saying that, I also give them for various reasons. One book can be completely different in what it is about or what the characters are about - yet I could give them both a 5! There's just something about finding out a story or a moment in the book or/and even a characters personality that makes you fall head over heels for the book. And "Outside The Ropes"? It is definitely one of them.
I didn't think that I would so easily be able to read it and so quickly at that - when I have a pile of too many books to count on my TBR.
I was not disappointed in the least with this book. Not. At. All. From the sexy yet beautifully done artwork of the cover, to reading an intriguing synopsis and now, to finding out this book has become one of my favourites.
I won't explain what the book is about, because obviously we have the synopsis for that, plus I wouldn't wont to spoil anything because even getting through the first few chapters I could tell that I would easily spoil something since I just want to tell everyone how amazing it is. You know that feeling you have when you've read a great book and you just want to keep talking about it to everyone? But it sucks that they have yet to read it so you have to keep your mouth shut? Well, this is sort of like that..
Anyway, I could obviously talk for hours about what I liked about this book.
From the great pacing between not only the scenes but also between each chapter and the characters development.
The build up to the ending of the book was so intense but at the same time, the author managed to slow down the pace and at times make it breathable for the reader, which only emphasised what the characters were going through. Being a writer myself, I was told from my Literature lecturers that because I am more naturally drawn towards an empathetic type of writing, that I should mix that with the raw intensity of action which will make for a perfect combination. I have always kept that in mind and I guess because empathy towards what I write, how I think and also what I am addicted in reading, I found Outside The Ropes PERFECT in that sense.
On the more technical aspects of the book, I found the sentence structure makes it easy to read but also the way Ashley Claudy writes simple and to the point sentences results in delivering powerful narration.
The writing is engaging with the audience.
I loved that the author was able to transit from the mindset of a fighter - having to constantly empower herself in needing and wanting to win - towards that of a girl that just wants to have a place to call home.. No wanting to give any spoilers, hoping that I managed that so far, I will just say that I can only wish to be as talented as Ashley Claudy is.
Regan's story is anything but a walking dream, and if anything, at times I just had to put my phone down and really think about the "What if's.." of life. This may be a work of fiction but hell if it didn't after my thoughts even after I finished it.
I had so many questions running through my mind and most of them were answered through the roller-coaster ride that the characters seemed to always be involved in. Speaking of, the evolution between all the relationships was just fun to read and although heartbreaking, shocking or/and tear jerking at times, it was also sexy and cute! I just can't express how much I liked reading this book.
The only aspect that I didn't like? That it ended... I want more... :)
Thank you Ashley Claudy for creating such an amazing world even if it was just for the during of the pages written! I cannot wait to purchase a print copy and read it again and again.. Its simply one of those books that are easy to read but that you will remember for a long long time.
Heartbreaking.
Sexy.
Hot.
Unforgiving.
Intense.
Sad.
Raw.
Beautiful.
Powerful.
Just simply too good to pass up
I absolutely got addicted and hooked from the first page, not kidding in the least! First I just want to say that I do not give 5 stars that often but with saying that, I also give them for various reasons. One book can be completely different in what it is about or what the characters are about - yet I could give them both a 5! There's just something about finding out a story or a moment in the book or/and even a characters personality that makes you fall head over heels for the book. And "Outside The Ropes"? It is definitely one of them.
I didn't think that I would so easily be able to read it and so quickly at that - when I have a pile of too many books to count on my TBR.
I was not disappointed in the least with this book. Not. At. All. From the sexy yet beautifully done artwork of the cover, to reading an intriguing synopsis and now, to finding out this book has become one of my favourites.
I won't explain what the book is about, because obviously we have the synopsis for that, plus I wouldn't wont to spoil anything because even getting through the first few chapters I could tell that I would easily spoil something since I just want to tell everyone how amazing it is. You know that feeling you have when you've read a great book and you just want to keep talking about it to everyone? But it sucks that they have yet to read it so you have to keep your mouth shut? Well, this is sort of like that..
Anyway, I could obviously talk for hours about what I liked about this book.
From the great pacing between not only the scenes but also between each chapter and the characters development.
The build up to the ending of the book was so intense but at the same time, the author managed to slow down the pace and at times make it breathable for the reader, which only emphasised what the characters were going through. Being a writer myself, I was told from my Literature lecturers that because I am more naturally drawn towards an empathetic type of writing, that I should mix that with the raw intensity of action which will make for a perfect combination. I have always kept that in mind and I guess because empathy towards what I write, how I think and also what I am addicted in reading, I found Outside The Ropes PERFECT in that sense.
On the more technical aspects of the book, I found the sentence structure makes it easy to read but also the way Ashley Claudy writes simple and to the point sentences results in delivering powerful narration.
The writing is engaging with the audience.
I loved that the author was able to transit from the mindset of a fighter - having to constantly empower herself in needing and wanting to win - towards that of a girl that just wants to have a place to call home.. No wanting to give any spoilers, hoping that I managed that so far, I will just say that I can only wish to be as talented as Ashley Claudy is.
Regan's story is anything but a walking dream, and if anything, at times I just had to put my phone down and really think about the "What if's.." of life. This may be a work of fiction but hell if it didn't after my thoughts even after I finished it.
I had so many questions running through my mind and most of them were answered through the roller-coaster ride that the characters seemed to always be involved in. Speaking of, the evolution between all the relationships was just fun to read and although heartbreaking, shocking or/and tear jerking at times, it was also sexy and cute! I just can't express how much I liked reading this book.
The only aspect that I didn't like? That it ended... I want more... :)
Thank you Ashley Claudy for creating such an amazing world even if it was just for the during of the pages written! I cannot wait to purchase a print copy and read it again and again.. Its simply one of those books that are easy to read but that you will remember for a long long time.
October 10, 2024
This book was good. I was really invested in the story. But ngl, I preferred the other love interest more than the H in this. I haven't warmed up to Gage yet. And the development was better between Anthony and Regan imo. He was the safer choice, so the irony of her getting involved with Gage and the havoc it caused her was not lost on me. But this wouldn't be the story that it was if she went with the safe choice. 🙄
April 13, 2015
***ARC kindly given by Netgally for a honest review.. ***
I absolutely loved this book. Once I started I could not put my Ipad down. Ashley Claudy can write some amazing characters and tell a story that will draw you in..
Regan “Rae” Sommers had a hard life growing up. She was in and out of the foster care system then dumped into the real world with no high school degree, no money, and no family.. Going from couch to Couch and working a dead end jobs is her only means of survival.
On her way “home” one night from work with very little cash in her pockets she is heading to her friend’s house to crash for the night.. she is attacked and becomes part of a ridiculous game of videotaping the brutal beating of an unsuspecting victim. It doesn't matter that she is severely outnumbered, every cell in her body she refuses to be the victim again so she fights back..
This is when Regan meets 4 men who will change her life forever..
Anthony – is a SUPER SWEET Cop. He is helping assist on her attack case.. He is always there for her.. Offering her a place to stay, a shoulder to lean on, an ear to talk to.. he wants to be the man she can fall in love with.. But Regan has made it clear from the get go she does not want that kind of relationship.. so they agree on a “friends with benefits relationship”..
Silas is the Co-Owner of The Boxing Club and he offers her the chance of a lifetime - He has offered to train her and enter her in some local boxing matches.. This guarantees her some money and the ability to learn some amazing fighting skills.
Dexter “Dex” is the sweet loving goofball of a friend who is there to help her learn some new fighting techniques and to be her trainer along with Silas..
Gage is the Sexy as sin boxer who acts as though he cannot stand Regan but whenever she turns around there he is.. Gage repeatedly reminds Regan she doesn’t know anything about the sport. But all it takes is one fight, and Regan knows she’s not about to give up.
Regan knows she should steer clear of Gage but her body keeps fighting her mind.. which will win out.. ?
There are soooo many twist and turns in this book.. It will keep you on the edge of your seat.. This book was released in January.. There is a slight Cliffy at the end but book 2 was released in march and book 3 is due out soon (June I believe)
I highly recomend adding to your TBR!!
I absolutely loved this book. Once I started I could not put my Ipad down. Ashley Claudy can write some amazing characters and tell a story that will draw you in..
Regan “Rae” Sommers had a hard life growing up. She was in and out of the foster care system then dumped into the real world with no high school degree, no money, and no family.. Going from couch to Couch and working a dead end jobs is her only means of survival.
On her way “home” one night from work with very little cash in her pockets she is heading to her friend’s house to crash for the night.. she is attacked and becomes part of a ridiculous game of videotaping the brutal beating of an unsuspecting victim. It doesn't matter that she is severely outnumbered, every cell in her body she refuses to be the victim again so she fights back..
This is when Regan meets 4 men who will change her life forever..
Anthony – is a SUPER SWEET Cop. He is helping assist on her attack case.. He is always there for her.. Offering her a place to stay, a shoulder to lean on, an ear to talk to.. he wants to be the man she can fall in love with.. But Regan has made it clear from the get go she does not want that kind of relationship.. so they agree on a “friends with benefits relationship”..
Silas is the Co-Owner of The Boxing Club and he offers her the chance of a lifetime - He has offered to train her and enter her in some local boxing matches.. This guarantees her some money and the ability to learn some amazing fighting skills.
Dexter “Dex” is the sweet loving goofball of a friend who is there to help her learn some new fighting techniques and to be her trainer along with Silas..
Gage is the Sexy as sin boxer who acts as though he cannot stand Regan but whenever she turns around there he is.. Gage repeatedly reminds Regan she doesn’t know anything about the sport. But all it takes is one fight, and Regan knows she’s not about to give up.
Regan knows she should steer clear of Gage but her body keeps fighting her mind.. which will win out.. ?
There are soooo many twist and turns in this book.. It will keep you on the edge of your seat.. This book was released in January.. There is a slight Cliffy at the end but book 2 was released in march and book 3 is due out soon (June I believe)
I highly recomend adding to your TBR!!
August 20, 2015
Regan is fierce both inside and outside the ring. She has had to be in order to survive. A childhood spent in foster care, emancipated at seventeen, and always struggling to keep safe. She doesn't trust anyone really and is only close to one person who is even more at risk. After she is beaten and robbed, she discovers boxing and views it as her way out of this kind of life. She also meets two men - Anthony and Gage. Anthony is a cop and feels safe. She knows what he wants. Gage is way too intense and is not a risk she wants to take.
The book is really intense and I am so happy to have discovered this author. I couldn't stop until I finished the book and am eager to see what is next for Regan. She is a complicated, conflicted young woman who deserves much more than she has been given. The author is great at conveying the emotional state of Regan and revealing the motivation for her actions. There is still a lot of her history to discover. The other characters are just as complicated and it is exciting to discover more about them. Gage is more like Regan that you realize at first. You can really feel their chemistry sizzle. Anthony is still more of a mystery. Just when you think you understand him, he reveals a different side.
I highly recommend this book. I really loved it and am happy to discover a new favorite author. I loved the emotional ride and didn't want it to end. I received a copy in return for a honest review.
The book is really intense and I am so happy to have discovered this author. I couldn't stop until I finished the book and am eager to see what is next for Regan. She is a complicated, conflicted young woman who deserves much more than she has been given. The author is great at conveying the emotional state of Regan and revealing the motivation for her actions. There is still a lot of her history to discover. The other characters are just as complicated and it is exciting to discover more about them. Gage is more like Regan that you realize at first. You can really feel their chemistry sizzle. Anthony is still more of a mystery. Just when you think you understand him, he reveals a different side.
I highly recommend this book. I really loved it and am happy to discover a new favorite author. I loved the emotional ride and didn't want it to end. I received a copy in return for a honest review.
June 13, 2015
I received a copy from the publisher (via netgalley) in exchange for a honest review.
I'm always dubious reading a debut authors book, past experiences where I couldn't connect with the author or writing has really put me off reading debut them, but I always like to give any author a chance and this dragged me in just from the blurb and cover picture and I'm so glad I went for it. Ashley is a new author to watch out for, I couldn't put this book down I love it and Ashley is defiantly a future author to keep a watch on.
This is based on Regan and i loved her from the start. Regan's had a tough life, tough upbringing pushed around from different foster homes and not finishing high school because of it. One night after finishing the late shift at work she gets attacked but doesn't go down without a fight. Luckily professional boxers Gage, Dexter and Silas come across the attack and help her. All this leads her into a dangerous tangled web and the start of 2 sexy guys vying for her, question is will either win her heart
Outside The Ropes is a fresh and different take on the typical fighter story and is a real gripping and raw throughout. A detailed deep and emotion debut edgy novel, I can't wait for the next.
I'm always dubious reading a debut authors book, past experiences where I couldn't connect with the author or writing has really put me off reading debut them, but I always like to give any author a chance and this dragged me in just from the blurb and cover picture and I'm so glad I went for it. Ashley is a new author to watch out for, I couldn't put this book down I love it and Ashley is defiantly a future author to keep a watch on.
This is based on Regan and i loved her from the start. Regan's had a tough life, tough upbringing pushed around from different foster homes and not finishing high school because of it. One night after finishing the late shift at work she gets attacked but doesn't go down without a fight. Luckily professional boxers Gage, Dexter and Silas come across the attack and help her. All this leads her into a dangerous tangled web and the start of 2 sexy guys vying for her, question is will either win her heart
Outside The Ropes is a fresh and different take on the typical fighter story and is a real gripping and raw throughout. A detailed deep and emotion debut edgy novel, I can't wait for the next.
August 3, 2015
This book is the kind of story that I did not want to put down. It sucked me right in and grabbed my attention from the first chapter. The author created a dark, but intense story full of engaging characters.
Regan has been in and out of foster care most of her life. She finally emancipated herself and is having a rough time with life. She encounters a dangerous situation one night and fights back instead of cowering in fear. Her attackers are scared off by four men who enter her life. Together, they teach her how to box, how to love, and how she should be treated. I love how each one brought something different into the equation. Gage is grumpy, but there is a lot of tension between him and Reagan. Dexter is the big brother type and protective of her. Anthony is a sweet guy who want to help her change her ways and have a better life. Then there is Silas – he wants to train her and enter her into boxing contests for money. He sees her potential and wants to help her create a career.
T
he story does end with a cliffhanger, but it is what makes me want to grab the next book and read it right away!! There is so much action, danger, and romance within these pages that you won’t be disappointed by picking up this book.
*A copy was provided for review
Regan has been in and out of foster care most of her life. She finally emancipated herself and is having a rough time with life. She encounters a dangerous situation one night and fights back instead of cowering in fear. Her attackers are scared off by four men who enter her life. Together, they teach her how to box, how to love, and how she should be treated. I love how each one brought something different into the equation. Gage is grumpy, but there is a lot of tension between him and Reagan. Dexter is the big brother type and protective of her. Anthony is a sweet guy who want to help her change her ways and have a better life. Then there is Silas – he wants to train her and enter her into boxing contests for money. He sees her potential and wants to help her create a career.
T
he story does end with a cliffhanger, but it is what makes me want to grab the next book and read it right away!! There is so much action, danger, and romance within these pages that you won’t be disappointed by picking up this book.
*A copy was provided for review
October 15, 2015
I've been meaning to write this review and I felt awful that I haven't done it when I've read it a while back.
This book is from the woman’s POV and she is the female boxer. I like that more authors are writing very strong female character lately and Regan Sommers is certainly that.
Getting to know Regan and Gage now that they’ve been actually published was almost as wonderful as being introduced to them in Wattpad.
The story follows 19-yr old Regan Sommers who has done a fair amount of maturing; due to living a hard life growing up in a foster care system. She works as a waitress, struggling to make ends meet. She found a career as a boxer but also found herself inside dangerous circumstances.
She met Anthony, the overly clingy nice cop and Gage, the bad ass gym owner. She was drawn to him like a magnet. It had a great secondary cast of characters from allies to villains too!
I loved and hated these characters which makes them more believable to me.
The storyline was very interesting. There's more to it than boxing and romance.
If you're looking for strong perfectly flawed female characters. I recommend giving this book a try.
This book is from the woman’s POV and she is the female boxer. I like that more authors are writing very strong female character lately and Regan Sommers is certainly that.
Getting to know Regan and Gage now that they’ve been actually published was almost as wonderful as being introduced to them in Wattpad.
The story follows 19-yr old Regan Sommers who has done a fair amount of maturing; due to living a hard life growing up in a foster care system. She works as a waitress, struggling to make ends meet. She found a career as a boxer but also found herself inside dangerous circumstances.
She met Anthony, the overly clingy nice cop and Gage, the bad ass gym owner. She was drawn to him like a magnet. It had a great secondary cast of characters from allies to villains too!
I loved and hated these characters which makes them more believable to me.
The storyline was very interesting. There's more to it than boxing and romance.
If you're looking for strong perfectly flawed female characters. I recommend giving this book a try.
April 8, 2015
This was a great read from start to finish, definitely one of those hard to put down page turners. Ashley Claudy has created an exciting romance novel that has substance, depth of character, intrigue, laugh and cry moments, along with exciting action scenes. I have read a few sports/romance books in my time and this one is probably the best I've ever read.
I loved the characters. Gage is a bad ass alpha male but he is also so much more and Reagan, our heroine, is no shrinking violet. Infact all the characters throughout the book really come to life. The author is skilled at dialogue, throughout the story I found it all very believable.
When I first started reading I was a little unsure if I would like the first person point of view as I tend not to like reading in this pov. But once past the first page I'd have had to think twice about which pov it was written in. It completely disappeared. Kudos to the author.
My only negative about the whole book is that this is book 1 and I have to wait until March for the second part!
I loved the characters. Gage is a bad ass alpha male but he is also so much more and Reagan, our heroine, is no shrinking violet. Infact all the characters throughout the book really come to life. The author is skilled at dialogue, throughout the story I found it all very believable.
When I first started reading I was a little unsure if I would like the first person point of view as I tend not to like reading in this pov. But once past the first page I'd have had to think twice about which pov it was written in. It completely disappeared. Kudos to the author.
My only negative about the whole book is that this is book 1 and I have to wait until March for the second part!
April 18, 2015
This book was a big surprise for me - I snagged it in a string of Kindle Unlimited reads I've been downing one after the other this week, and this one REALLY stands out in the crowd. It didn't feel like it followed normal 'romance novel' trends or patterns. Instead we have characters who feel REAL, facing gritty and realistic situations. And it was because of that I was drawn in and couldn't put the book down. Don't get me wrong, there's romance in it, but it was never that cheesy crap where like five chapters in and the dude is like I'm-going-to-change-my-manwhore-ways-suddenly-because-this-woman-is-a-goddess! thing.
No. Instead, the transitions and development of feelings were realistic. The character's insecurities and fears were always there. Real life kept getting in the way of things. It was SO refreshing people!!! Can't give this book high enough praise and now I'm diving right into the second book.
No. Instead, the transitions and development of feelings were realistic. The character's insecurities and fears were always there. Real life kept getting in the way of things. It was SO refreshing people!!! Can't give this book high enough praise and now I'm diving right into the second book.
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