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Fight for Me #1
Fight for Me
Raised in the streets, Knox is a battle-worn MMA fighter with no past, present, or future. Fighting every day just to survive, Knox owns nothing but the pride in his victories and the scars on his hands. When his control snaps and he must flee the city to keep his life, he runs into a stunning woman with the same intent. All big eyes and delicate features, she's not cut out to survive on her own. And when finding her own inner strength leads to a shocking act of violence, Knox knows he must protect her at all costs...
Natalie couldn't spend another day under her father's lock and key. Raised to be the perfect picture of wealth and sophistication, she detests the dark, ugly side of her father's greed. Refusing to be held captive by her life a moment longer, she escapes his fortress - and runs right into the arms of the strongest, most dangerous, most desirable man she's ever met. As instant attraction leads to explosive passion, Natalie finds she cannot leave his side. But as their pursuers loom closer and threaten to tear them apart, Natalie and Knox have to is it easier to stand apart? Or is a love this strong worth the fight?
Natalie couldn't spend another day under her father's lock and key. Raised to be the perfect picture of wealth and sophistication, she detests the dark, ugly side of her father's greed. Refusing to be held captive by her life a moment longer, she escapes his fortress - and runs right into the arms of the strongest, most dangerous, most desirable man she's ever met. As instant attraction leads to explosive passion, Natalie finds she cannot leave his side. But as their pursuers loom closer and threaten to tear them apart, Natalie and Knox have to is it easier to stand apart? Or is a love this strong worth the fight?
249 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 30, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
August 27, 2016
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Well lets just say that this book has a lot of action. Not that I mind that, I actually love that in my books but beside that there is also a lot of angst and suspense and of course sexy times. To be honest almost a bit too much of everything for me. It's a good read for those who really like to read about life on a run and how the get their freedom back (if they get it), but for me this book wasn't so on point as I'd love it to be. I don't know, maybe it's just me but I just couldn't connect with the story as much as I wanted.
The blurb already gives a lot away at what happens. Natalie's father is one big greedy human waste of space and he uses his daughter as a golden goose. Since she got all the money from her passed away mother but can't officially use it till she's thirty, her father makes sure he controls her life to the max. That is till Natalie decides that she wants to actually live her life freely and without her controling father. So, what does a girl to do? Right, run away. Now if only it would be that easy. One mistake almost costs her everything but luckily she meets Knox or rather he meets her. And together they kinda end up on the run from the whole town.
Where to start with Knox? I actually liked him. He's I guess not your usually MMA fighter. His past wasn't that pretty and the only thing that made sense to him at that time was to get into fighting. But lately he's tired of X's constant controling personality and he just wants to get out of that world. When he sees Natalie he's a gonner. I'm so glad we got his POV and he really cares for her. He shows that with his action over and over and I'm so happy for him to finally have found somebody like her. And as for Natalie, she's a smart young woman and I really liked her spirit. She fights for what she wants and is super loyal and just a great person.
The plot is super intense and both have to go through a lot to get to where they end up. I enjoyed the story and I for those who like a good action/suspense/romance story this is definitely a book they should read. :)
Well lets just say that this book has a lot of action. Not that I mind that, I actually love that in my books but beside that there is also a lot of angst and suspense and of course sexy times. To be honest almost a bit too much of everything for me. It's a good read for those who really like to read about life on a run and how the get their freedom back (if they get it), but for me this book wasn't so on point as I'd love it to be. I don't know, maybe it's just me but I just couldn't connect with the story as much as I wanted.
The blurb already gives a lot away at what happens. Natalie's father is one big greedy human waste of space and he uses his daughter as a golden goose. Since she got all the money from her passed away mother but can't officially use it till she's thirty, her father makes sure he controls her life to the max. That is till Natalie decides that she wants to actually live her life freely and without her controling father. So, what does a girl to do? Right, run away. Now if only it would be that easy. One mistake almost costs her everything but luckily she meets Knox or rather he meets her. And together they kinda end up on the run from the whole town.
Where to start with Knox? I actually liked him. He's I guess not your usually MMA fighter. His past wasn't that pretty and the only thing that made sense to him at that time was to get into fighting. But lately he's tired of X's constant controling personality and he just wants to get out of that world. When he sees Natalie he's a gonner. I'm so glad we got his POV and he really cares for her. He shows that with his action over and over and I'm so happy for him to finally have found somebody like her. And as for Natalie, she's a smart young woman and I really liked her spirit. She fights for what she wants and is super loyal and just a great person.
The plot is super intense and both have to go through a lot to get to where they end up. I enjoyed the story and I for those who like a good action/suspense/romance story this is definitely a book they should read. :)
August 8, 2016
DNF @ 50%.
Action, suspense, drama and passion are all elements I like in a book and Fight for Me sounded my cuppa. However, there's fast-paced and action-packed, and there's just far fetched and unfortunately this fell into the latter for me.
"I've lived my entire life feeling dead inside. But you make me feel alive."
Knox and Natalie meet after he's kicked seven bells out of the bloke who runs his MMA career and she's legged it from her tyrannical father and, over blasted-out-brain-matter, they meet and fall in love. Because this couple bring a whole new meaning to the word insta and he goes into full-on protector mode within five minutes of meeting her, and within ten he's stripping her for a shower, washing her down, sharing a bed and spooning. Add in some guns, crushed windpipes, the discovery she's a virgin, an orgasm, diving out of windows, fleeing the law, realising they've forgotten their guns, breaking into a family friend's house, a car chase and are you following? Because I was sure as hell sat here thinking SLOW DOWN FFS PLEASE.
All by 30%.
And by 50% she's in love with him. As I say there's insta and there's insta and this just didn't work at all for me. It's not badly written, it's the pacing that is my whole issue here and had that been different, I may well have enjoyed this.
Copy received courtesy of St. Martins Press for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Action, suspense, drama and passion are all elements I like in a book and Fight for Me sounded my cuppa. However, there's fast-paced and action-packed, and there's just far fetched and unfortunately this fell into the latter for me.
"I've lived my entire life feeling dead inside. But you make me feel alive."
Knox and Natalie meet after he's kicked seven bells out of the bloke who runs his MMA career and she's legged it from her tyrannical father and, over blasted-out-brain-matter, they meet and fall in love. Because this couple bring a whole new meaning to the word insta and he goes into full-on protector mode within five minutes of meeting her, and within ten he's stripping her for a shower, washing her down, sharing a bed and spooning. Add in some guns, crushed windpipes, the discovery she's a virgin, an orgasm, diving out of windows, fleeing the law, realising they've forgotten their guns, breaking into a family friend's house, a car chase and are you following? Because I was sure as hell sat here thinking SLOW DOWN FFS PLEASE.
All by 30%.
And by 50% she's in love with him. As I say there's insta and there's insta and this just didn't work at all for me. It's not badly written, it's the pacing that is my whole issue here and had that been different, I may well have enjoyed this.
Copy received courtesy of St. Martins Press for an honest and unbiased opinion.
August 30, 2016
3 ~ Sweet and Crazy ~ Stars
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This story starts off with a shot of intrigue, a high dose of adrenaline and a punch of bloody-in-your-face danger. Escaping her gilded cage and her heartless father, Natalie's grab for freedom begins with a back alley fight for her life that quickly spirals her into a world far from her sheltered upbringing. Her knight in shining armor comes in the form of Knox, a street fighting warrior with a heart of gold.
Knox has never had to worry about anyone but himself, not after the hard lessons he's learned from childhood. Running from his past of violence and crime, he didn't count on coming to the rescue of a damsel in distress. But one look at the doe eyed beauty facing off a brute with a gun, and Knox knows he can't walk away.
Now they're both on the run, each trying to out run their own demons. Life isn't black and white, and these two are navigating the dangerous gray. Will good triumph over evil or will these two come to a dead end?
This was a really great read. I liked the slow burn between the MCs. It was insta-lust and love for these two but they didn't immediately jump each other. I liked that they got to know each other before mixing business with pleasure. Knox was a great H and I liked Natalie too. Some of the things that kind of made the flow of the story a bit choppy was the introduction of side characters that didn't amount to much and the sometimes irrational and spontaneous actions of both the H and h.
If you need facts and realistic outcomes this one might be a pass. I had to suspend disbelief on this one a few times. But overall an enjoyable read.
Safety: Yes
ARC provided for an honest review
This story starts off with a shot of intrigue, a high dose of adrenaline and a punch of bloody-in-your-face danger. Escaping her gilded cage and her heartless father, Natalie's grab for freedom begins with a back alley fight for her life that quickly spirals her into a world far from her sheltered upbringing. Her knight in shining armor comes in the form of Knox, a street fighting warrior with a heart of gold.
Knox has never had to worry about anyone but himself, not after the hard lessons he's learned from childhood. Running from his past of violence and crime, he didn't count on coming to the rescue of a damsel in distress. But one look at the doe eyed beauty facing off a brute with a gun, and Knox knows he can't walk away.
Now they're both on the run, each trying to out run their own demons. Life isn't black and white, and these two are navigating the dangerous gray. Will good triumph over evil or will these two come to a dead end?
This was a really great read. I liked the slow burn between the MCs. It was insta-lust and love for these two but they didn't immediately jump each other. I liked that they got to know each other before mixing business with pleasure. Knox was a great H and I liked Natalie too. Some of the things that kind of made the flow of the story a bit choppy was the introduction of side characters that didn't amount to much and the sometimes irrational and spontaneous actions of both the H and h.
If you need facts and realistic outcomes this one might be a pass. I had to suspend disbelief on this one a few times. But overall an enjoyable read.
Safety: Yes
ARC provided for an honest review
August 31, 2016
Rating 3.5
There are so many things that I really like about this book.
Natalie is a bit of a sheltered, do what's right and never question her father kind of girl, but lately she's feeling that things aren't what they should be and her father is definitely not his public persona. In public he's charming and all smiles while at home he's not much of a father. He sure is enjoying living on Natalie's trust fund though. She has become a prisoner in her own home. Her mother passed away when she was a young girl and it's just been her and her dad, along with all the security for many years. She is now decided that enough is enough and she will head south to an aunt's to live for four years until she turns thirty and receives the rest of her inheritance. But that doesn't work out quite the way she planned.
Knox is an underground street fighter who has made his trainer/owner/father figure a ton of money but he's tired of only getting a small portion of the winnings. When X wants him to throw a fight that is the final straw and an altercation happens and he beats up X and takes all the money and walks away for good; or so he thinks.
When Natalie is chased after running and is attacked in an alley by one of the guards he dad has hired Knox steps in to keep her from getting hurt and she is so thankful. Now they are on the run together since she shot the guard and killed him and Knox is running from X.
Things get way more complicated from here and she and Knox end up going to one of her mom's old friends, Amelia, who she hasn't seen in forever, because her father didn't like Amelia and she certainly did not like him. She decides to help them.
Okay so Amelia might be my favorite character in this book. She is saucy and feisty and pulls no punches. But as a whole the storyline is a bit weak in spots and then to be so detailed throughout it skips so much in the end. I would love to see the author fill in some more of the story at the end.
I devoured the book and that is why I am giving it 3.5 stars. It's worth the read and the characters were built pretty good the story just had missing pieces to me.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
There are so many things that I really like about this book.
Natalie is a bit of a sheltered, do what's right and never question her father kind of girl, but lately she's feeling that things aren't what they should be and her father is definitely not his public persona. In public he's charming and all smiles while at home he's not much of a father. He sure is enjoying living on Natalie's trust fund though. She has become a prisoner in her own home. Her mother passed away when she was a young girl and it's just been her and her dad, along with all the security for many years. She is now decided that enough is enough and she will head south to an aunt's to live for four years until she turns thirty and receives the rest of her inheritance. But that doesn't work out quite the way she planned.
Knox is an underground street fighter who has made his trainer/owner/father figure a ton of money but he's tired of only getting a small portion of the winnings. When X wants him to throw a fight that is the final straw and an altercation happens and he beats up X and takes all the money and walks away for good; or so he thinks.
When Natalie is chased after running and is attacked in an alley by one of the guards he dad has hired Knox steps in to keep her from getting hurt and she is so thankful. Now they are on the run together since she shot the guard and killed him and Knox is running from X.
Things get way more complicated from here and she and Knox end up going to one of her mom's old friends, Amelia, who she hasn't seen in forever, because her father didn't like Amelia and she certainly did not like him. She decides to help them.
Okay so Amelia might be my favorite character in this book. She is saucy and feisty and pulls no punches. But as a whole the storyline is a bit weak in spots and then to be so detailed throughout it skips so much in the end. I would love to see the author fill in some more of the story at the end.
I devoured the book and that is why I am giving it 3.5 stars. It's worth the read and the characters were built pretty good the story just had missing pieces to me.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 1, 2016
3.5 stars
August 9, 2016
ARC provided in exchange for my honest review. Thank you.
Hero(s) rating: 3 stars
Heroine rating: 3 stars
Sexual tension rating: 3 stars
Sex scenes rating: 3 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 3 stars
Plot rating: 3 stars
Dialogue rating: 3 stars
Other woman/men drama:
Cheating:
Storytelling rating: 3.5 stars
Story ending rating: 3 stars
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
**********************************************
Overall rating: 3 stars
Fight For Me tells the story of Natalie, a forced socialite seeking freedom from the grasp of her father & Knox, an underground fighter looking for a way out of the grasp of the man who made him.
Natalie & Knox's happenstance meeting leaves quite a first impression - Natalie being attacked & Knox just happening to be at the right place at the right time.
The crazy journey these two go on is a softer version of Bonnie & Clyde - leaving bodies and destruction in their paths. Although these two were not looking for trouble, trouble sure seemed to find them at every turn.
This was a pretty good read full of suspense, blood, and violence. But, of course, we can't forget the lust and desire that simmers (then boils) between our H & h.
While there some instances in the story that were a touch unrealistic to me, overall the premise of the story was delivered with just the right amount of suspense to peak your interest.
Hero(s) rating: 3 stars
Heroine rating: 3 stars
Sexual tension rating: 3 stars
Sex scenes rating: 3 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 3 stars
Plot rating: 3 stars
Dialogue rating: 3 stars
Other woman/men drama:
Cheating:
Storytelling rating: 3.5 stars
Story ending rating: 3 stars
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
**********************************************
Overall rating: 3 stars
Fight For Me tells the story of Natalie, a forced socialite seeking freedom from the grasp of her father & Knox, an underground fighter looking for a way out of the grasp of the man who made him.
Natalie & Knox's happenstance meeting leaves quite a first impression - Natalie being attacked & Knox just happening to be at the right place at the right time.
The crazy journey these two go on is a softer version of Bonnie & Clyde - leaving bodies and destruction in their paths. Although these two were not looking for trouble, trouble sure seemed to find them at every turn.
This was a pretty good read full of suspense, blood, and violence. But, of course, we can't forget the lust and desire that simmers (then boils) between our H & h.
While there some instances in the story that were a touch unrealistic to me, overall the premise of the story was delivered with just the right amount of suspense to peak your interest.
July 18, 2016
Title: Fight for Me
Author: Jessica Linden
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Sports – MMA, Suspense
Series or Standalone: Standalone
Rating: ★★★★1/2 Stars (Rounded to 5* for Goodreads and Amazon)
Review
Alpha male MMA style Fighter: Check.
Virgin Heroine: Check
Crazy as hell ride on the run: Check
This book was a different read for me. Not because it was a combination of some of my favorite genre’s but because of the way it all played out. It was different than a lot of the books of this type that I come across in reading travels.
There’s no denying my interest lately in MMA/UFC style books. It’s the inner fangirl of the sport of it coming out in me, but what I normally get from one of those, I didn’t get here. In fact, I think in a lot of different ways I got a whole lot more.
Knox was your typical angry fighter and as mentioned above he was definitely an alpha male primarily, but he had quite a bit more to him than that. He wasn’t really typical in any other way. He wasn’t a manwhore or a player. He wasn’t a complete jerk. Which honestly is what I'm used to a lot of the time in these types of stories.
There was more than the need to fight and the need to feed his anger. A softness to him, as much as there was the protective alpha style. He saw his girl, he got his girl (even if at points he didn’t feel worthy of said girl) and he protected that girl until the very end. All while falling in love and lust with her in the process.
This book definitely dabbles on the side of insta-love, as their connection is quite quick and with as fast paced as the novel was already, based on the more suspenseful angle of it all, it appears within the first few pages and doesn’t really let up the whole way through. So if that aspect really isn’t your speed, you might not enjoy this. But since insta love really doesn’t bother me much—sometimes I downright love it—it was onwards and upwards here.
I gotta say, virginal heroines are done a lot in romantic fiction and because of that, I seem to have a lower tolerance for them than some others, but here, it really didn’t bother me much either. In fact, I think the whole guy from the wrong side of the tracks being the first of a girl from the supposed “right” side of it, played very well here.
They were both very similar in their needs honestly, both wanting to break free of bigger evils and even though they were brought together because of a horrible experience, the way they stick together through it, become stronger because of it was truly a beautiful thing to read.
Knox was strong, loyal, fierce and damn near swoon worthy honestly, especially in the ways he handled or rather, the way he was with Natalie. And getting to see Natalie really come into herself, becoming stronger and more determined to not live life under her father was a pretty great thing to be a part of as well.
Overall, I had no real complaints. For a debut novel by the author, this book read pretty damn great and I would definitely check out more from her in the future.
If you like suspense in your reads, enjoy anything having to do with the fight world and you’re down with a whole lot of steamy loving while two unlikely people find love in one another, then I think you’ll enjoy this.
And for all you ladies out there concerned with safety in books, from what I can tell, especially after speaking with a few of you, I can “safely” say, this one in my estimation is one hundred percent safe. So go fall in love with Knox already ;)
My thanks to the author and all others involved in letting me read this before its official release. It’s a journey that while wild and crazy is one that I’m super glad that I got to be a part of.
September 10, 2016
BOOK REVIEW: Fight for me
AUTHOR: Jessica Linden
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
PUBLICATION DATE: August 30, 2016
CLIFF HANGER: No
3 Stars
SYNOPSIS:
From debut author Jessica Linden comes a sexy romantic suspense novel featuring an MMA fighter and an heiress on the run who must stay together if they are to defeat what hunts them...and explore the passion that surrounds them.
Raised in the streets, Knox is a battle-worn MMA fighter with no past, present, or future. Fighting every day just to survive, Knox owns nothing but the pride in his victories and the scars on his hands. When his control snaps and he must flee the city to keep his life, he runs into a stunning woman with the same intent. All big eyes and delicate features, she's not cut out to survive on her own. And when finding her own inner strength leads to a shocking act of violence, Knox knows he must protect her at all costs...
Natalie couldn't spend another day under her father's lock and key. Raised to be the perfect picture of wealth and sophistication, she detests the dark, ugly side of her father's greed. Refusing to be held captive by her life a moment longer, she escapes his fortress - and runs right into the arms of the strongest, most dangerous, most desirable man she's ever met. As instant attraction leads to explosive passion, Natalie finds she cannot leave his side. But as their pursuers loom closer and threaten to tear them apart, Natalie and Knox have to decide: is it easier to stand apart? Or is a love this strong worth the fight?
MY THOUGHTS:
This is the authors debut novel and it wasn’t bad, it just wasn’t for me.
This book is full of action and suspense from start to finish! There was a very strong connection between Knox and Natalie immediately and the characters fall in love very quickly. There isn’t much in the way of Knox fighting in the ring, the story line is built around Knox and Natalie on the run.
I wish I could say I really liked this book, but it just didn’t do it for me. The story had good promise, but it was just them running from one bad situation to another, sexy times in between and trying to figure out how to get out of the mess they were in. It just didn’t mesh for me because I didn’t feel like there was enough building of the characters. It was just action.
Knox
I really didn’t connect with characters and I found my attention span waning, it was just more of the same as the story went along.
Natalie
I am a firm believer in everyone reads the same book differently and my opinion on this book is just that, my opinion and how I saw the story unfold. If you like a sexy book with lots of angst, on the run action, then give this book a try.
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
AUTHOR: Jessica Linden
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
PUBLICATION DATE: August 30, 2016
CLIFF HANGER: No
3 Stars
SYNOPSIS:
From debut author Jessica Linden comes a sexy romantic suspense novel featuring an MMA fighter and an heiress on the run who must stay together if they are to defeat what hunts them...and explore the passion that surrounds them.
Raised in the streets, Knox is a battle-worn MMA fighter with no past, present, or future. Fighting every day just to survive, Knox owns nothing but the pride in his victories and the scars on his hands. When his control snaps and he must flee the city to keep his life, he runs into a stunning woman with the same intent. All big eyes and delicate features, she's not cut out to survive on her own. And when finding her own inner strength leads to a shocking act of violence, Knox knows he must protect her at all costs...
Natalie couldn't spend another day under her father's lock and key. Raised to be the perfect picture of wealth and sophistication, she detests the dark, ugly side of her father's greed. Refusing to be held captive by her life a moment longer, she escapes his fortress - and runs right into the arms of the strongest, most dangerous, most desirable man she's ever met. As instant attraction leads to explosive passion, Natalie finds she cannot leave his side. But as their pursuers loom closer and threaten to tear them apart, Natalie and Knox have to decide: is it easier to stand apart? Or is a love this strong worth the fight?
MY THOUGHTS:
This is the authors debut novel and it wasn’t bad, it just wasn’t for me.
This book is full of action and suspense from start to finish! There was a very strong connection between Knox and Natalie immediately and the characters fall in love very quickly. There isn’t much in the way of Knox fighting in the ring, the story line is built around Knox and Natalie on the run.
I wish I could say I really liked this book, but it just didn’t do it for me. The story had good promise, but it was just them running from one bad situation to another, sexy times in between and trying to figure out how to get out of the mess they were in. It just didn’t mesh for me because I didn’t feel like there was enough building of the characters. It was just action.
Knox
I really didn’t connect with characters and I found my attention span waning, it was just more of the same as the story went along.
Natalie
I am a firm believer in everyone reads the same book differently and my opinion on this book is just that, my opinion and how I saw the story unfold. If you like a sexy book with lots of angst, on the run action, then give this book a try.
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
September 5, 2016
I don't know why, but I am kinda obsessed with books featuring fighters. Some of them are my faves. Some of them have been misses, but I'm glad I picked up Fight for Me.
Knox and Natalie literally run into each other when they're both on the run--her from her overbearing father and him from his boss. There's instalove and sparks flying and bullets whizzing by. There's a crazy road trip and when I say it's non-stop action, I am not even kidding. I was really surprised by how much story Linden packed in here. At the surface, this is just your typical boy from the wrong side of the tracks falls for rich princess who wants to escape, but there's more here. There's this whole mystery and definite danger following them. I loved the fast-pacing and the intensity.
Yes, there's crazy instalove, but I don't mind that. *grin*
I loved Knox and thought he was super swoony. Natalie was alright, but he totally made up for it. He was a total badass but was also protective and tender when it came to Natalie.
I also love that he didn't have the whole "I'm not good enough for her, so I'll push her away" thing that we're so used to. He knew he wasn't good enough for her and never would be, but he wasn't willing to give her up or take that choice away from her.
There were some things that I didn't like, like the fact that she's a virgin when she meets Knox, wastes no time in getting it on with him, and comes the first time, but what are you gonna do? ;) I also wish this had been in first person, but that's pretty much always what I want. Overall, I'd say that I really liked this book. With fast-paced action, a couple you'll be rooting for, and seriously sexy times, Fight for Me is a great choice for all romance fans.
--
For more reviews and bookish talk, visit our blog at Pretty Sassy Cool
Knox and Natalie literally run into each other when they're both on the run--her from her overbearing father and him from his boss. There's instalove and sparks flying and bullets whizzing by. There's a crazy road trip and when I say it's non-stop action, I am not even kidding. I was really surprised by how much story Linden packed in here. At the surface, this is just your typical boy from the wrong side of the tracks falls for rich princess who wants to escape, but there's more here. There's this whole mystery and definite danger following them. I loved the fast-pacing and the intensity.
Yes, there's crazy instalove, but I don't mind that. *grin*
I loved Knox and thought he was super swoony. Natalie was alright, but he totally made up for it. He was a total badass but was also protective and tender when it came to Natalie.
His hands fisted at the thought of seeing Natalie every day, but not being able to touch her, to kiss her, to love her. He never would have dared to dream of having a woman like Natalie in his life, but now that she was there, he didn't want to live without her.
I also love that he didn't have the whole "I'm not good enough for her, so I'll push her away" thing that we're so used to. He knew he wasn't good enough for her and never would be, but he wasn't willing to give her up or take that choice away from her.
There were some things that I didn't like, like the fact that she's a virgin when she meets Knox, wastes no time in getting it on with him, and comes the first time, but what are you gonna do? ;) I also wish this had been in first person, but that's pretty much always what I want. Overall, I'd say that I really liked this book. With fast-paced action, a couple you'll be rooting for, and seriously sexy times, Fight for Me is a great choice for all romance fans.
--
For more reviews and bookish talk, visit our blog at Pretty Sassy Cool
July 19, 2016
4 Stars!!
I actually liked this book more than I thought I would. I was pleasantly surprised. I haven't read this a book like this before and when I read the blurb it sounded very interesting,
Natalie is the daughter to a very rich powerful man, but she is not free. Her father controls her every move and has guards watching her at every time. She decides to runaway and try to be free.
Knox is a underground MMA fighter. He runs into Natalie when while she is being attacked by one of her father's guards while trying to runaway.
Knox is a total alpha male and connects with Natalie instantly. He is so delicate with her and always tries to make her feel at ease. This was definitely an Inta-love, I thought it felt a bit forced and that's the only thing I have to complain about.
I liked this story, it kept me on the edge of my seat and wanting to know what was going to happen next.
This was a great debut novel and I cant wait to see what else the author has to offer.
I actually liked this book more than I thought I would. I was pleasantly surprised. I haven't read this a book like this before and when I read the blurb it sounded very interesting,
Natalie is the daughter to a very rich powerful man, but she is not free. Her father controls her every move and has guards watching her at every time. She decides to runaway and try to be free.
Knox is a underground MMA fighter. He runs into Natalie when while she is being attacked by one of her father's guards while trying to runaway.
Knox is a total alpha male and connects with Natalie instantly. He is so delicate with her and always tries to make her feel at ease. This was definitely an Inta-love, I thought it felt a bit forced and that's the only thing I have to complain about.
I liked this story, it kept me on the edge of my seat and wanting to know what was going to happen next.
This was a great debut novel and I cant wait to see what else the author has to offer.
September 1, 2016
Link to full review below! Its insta-love and over the top drama but I loved every page!!! See full review on The Book Disciple
November 22, 2016
Received a review copy through NetGalley.
Fight for Me is a beautiful story about an MMA fighter who wants to do things on his own and rich girl looking to escape the bars her father has surrounded her with. The romance, the secrets, the deception and pure fighting -- be it physical, emotional or mental -- creates such a perfect story of an instant love brand new.
Knox is an underground MMA fighter. He's been fighting since he can remember. He was taken in by X and has been a "slave" in a manner to X and the fighting world. He reaches his breaking point when X tells him to throw a match for money. Things go downhill after that. Knox is a very strong, loving, tender and caring man. I loved everything about him from the first chapter. He knew his strength and his worth and didn't take no mess from no one. He was determined to protect himself and anyone who needed his help. Everything about him was amazing.
Natalie would have seemed like your normal stubborn rich girl, but she was anything but. At 26, she was a virgin and was tired of all her father's drama. Natalie was an absolutely amazing character. She was strong, dependent, smart and knew she wanted better morally for herself. She never let the wealth take control of her life or heart. She was pure in every way imaginable. She always tried to do right and even when her back was against the wall she continued to fight.
The romance was pretty darn awesome I must say. Not only was Natalie a virgin, but she and Knox seemed to have really grown to love one another over the course of the book. It may have been premature, but it seemed like love at first sight to me. The way they protected one another was amazing. Neither was willing to let the other die.
Mr. Kent, Natalie's father, was a disgrace to mankind. The way he treated his daughter and used her for her money was insane. The things he did with his wealth were wretched. The truth about his wife just irked and pissed me off. Everything about him annoyed me, but his demise was beautiful and well deserved.
X, Knox's father figure and manager, seemed like a great man, but in the end he was only using Knox. I didn't like how obsessed he became with getting Knox back under his grip. He was just a sad man.
Amelia was a spitfire! I loved everything about her being. She was quirky, snarky, rude and funny. She made me laugh with everything that came out of her mouth. She may have been rich, but she didn't let the money turn her sour.
The ending was absolutely cute. I did want more to happen for both Knox and Natalie, but the business venture they were starting with Amelia was a good ending. Enjoyable read and quick to read in a day.
Fight for Me is a beautiful story about an MMA fighter who wants to do things on his own and rich girl looking to escape the bars her father has surrounded her with. The romance, the secrets, the deception and pure fighting -- be it physical, emotional or mental -- creates such a perfect story of an instant love brand new.
Knox is an underground MMA fighter. He's been fighting since he can remember. He was taken in by X and has been a "slave" in a manner to X and the fighting world. He reaches his breaking point when X tells him to throw a match for money. Things go downhill after that. Knox is a very strong, loving, tender and caring man. I loved everything about him from the first chapter. He knew his strength and his worth and didn't take no mess from no one. He was determined to protect himself and anyone who needed his help. Everything about him was amazing.
Natalie would have seemed like your normal stubborn rich girl, but she was anything but. At 26, she was a virgin and was tired of all her father's drama. Natalie was an absolutely amazing character. She was strong, dependent, smart and knew she wanted better morally for herself. She never let the wealth take control of her life or heart. She was pure in every way imaginable. She always tried to do right and even when her back was against the wall she continued to fight.
The romance was pretty darn awesome I must say. Not only was Natalie a virgin, but she and Knox seemed to have really grown to love one another over the course of the book. It may have been premature, but it seemed like love at first sight to me. The way they protected one another was amazing. Neither was willing to let the other die.
Mr. Kent, Natalie's father, was a disgrace to mankind. The way he treated his daughter and used her for her money was insane. The things he did with his wealth were wretched. The truth about his wife just irked and pissed me off. Everything about him annoyed me, but his demise was beautiful and well deserved.
X, Knox's father figure and manager, seemed like a great man, but in the end he was only using Knox. I didn't like how obsessed he became with getting Knox back under his grip. He was just a sad man.
Amelia was a spitfire! I loved everything about her being. She was quirky, snarky, rude and funny. She made me laugh with everything that came out of her mouth. She may have been rich, but she didn't let the money turn her sour.
The ending was absolutely cute. I did want more to happen for both Knox and Natalie, but the business venture they were starting with Amelia was a good ending. Enjoyable read and quick to read in a day.
August 26, 2016
Fight for Me was one intense book! From the very first page, this book was action packed! This book was so fast paced that I blew through the book in one sitting. The author did a great job at keeping me on my toes! It was a little jarring how fast paced this book was at times, but it made for an intense read.
Even though there was action around every bend in this story, which was a little much at times. I love fast paced books, but at times, the action seemed unbelievable. It was hard for me to believe there was that much action going on basically 24/7. I am grateful that the author added some nail bitting action, but I would have liked it to have been a little less dramatic.
Everything about this book was fast paced, including the romance. I had a very hard time believing the speed at which the romance progressed. The romance in this book was a perfect example of insta-love. It felt very rushed and I could not believe their "love" connection at all.However, the author did a great job at creating the chemistry between the couple, Knox and Natalie. I could feel the passion they shared, even if the relationship itself didn't feel 100% believable.
Natalie was a feisty character that I really enjoyed. At first, I wasn't sure if I was going to like her character. However, the author did a great job at developing her character. Natalie was a fierce and independent. I thought she was an awesome main character! Give me more Natalie!
Overall, I thought this book was action packed and thrilling. Even though I did have some issues with this book, I thought it was an entertaining story as a whole. I would recommend this to people who are looking for a quick and exciting read. I am looking forward to seeing what this author will come out with next, because I can tell she has a lot of potential!
3 / 5 Fangs
*This ebook was given to me in exchange for a honest review. *
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
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Even though there was action around every bend in this story, which was a little much at times. I love fast paced books, but at times, the action seemed unbelievable. It was hard for me to believe there was that much action going on basically 24/7. I am grateful that the author added some nail bitting action, but I would have liked it to have been a little less dramatic.
Everything about this book was fast paced, including the romance. I had a very hard time believing the speed at which the romance progressed. The romance in this book was a perfect example of insta-love. It felt very rushed and I could not believe their "love" connection at all.However, the author did a great job at creating the chemistry between the couple, Knox and Natalie. I could feel the passion they shared, even if the relationship itself didn't feel 100% believable.
Natalie was a feisty character that I really enjoyed. At first, I wasn't sure if I was going to like her character. However, the author did a great job at developing her character. Natalie was a fierce and independent. I thought she was an awesome main character! Give me more Natalie!
Overall, I thought this book was action packed and thrilling. Even though I did have some issues with this book, I thought it was an entertaining story as a whole. I would recommend this to people who are looking for a quick and exciting read. I am looking forward to seeing what this author will come out with next, because I can tell she has a lot of potential!
3 / 5 Fangs
*This ebook was given to me in exchange for a honest review. *
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
September 4, 2016
4 Stars, 3 Flames
Running away from a bad situation seems like the only right thing to do for both Knox and Natalie. Until it gets much, much worse. Saving Natalie from being attacked and taken against her will, Knox comes to see that's she's in need of escape too. Freedom is just on the horizon if only they can just get to it.
This is my first Jessica Linden book and I have to say I enjoyed it a lot more than I had expected too. Sadly, I thought it was going to be like all the other romantic suspenses I've read lately. There is usually two storylines when it comes to a romantic suspense- 1) a drawn out build to both the suspense and romance and 2) a fast intro that lead to a faster comclusion. Surprisingly, Fight for Me is a happy medium that gives you a fast intro, a slow burn of romance with a fierce protective instincts, and a conclusion you can see happening by still shocked all the same.
Natalie, our heroine, didn't plan for her escape to fail. And it does so miserably. She also didn't plan for Knox, a street fighting thug who is also looking to escape. But once they both see the need for freedom in each other, a special bond is created that neither can let go of. Not many authors can capture the intensity in which a bond such as this one is like. Miss Linden did an excellent job in creating it. Some things seemed out of place, random that could have been left out and the heat was a wee bit dull for normal romantic suspense.
With that said and it was pretty easy to overlook, this book had me on the edge of my seat! A must for fans of this genre!
I was gifted a copy of this novel from the JeepDiva in exchange for an honest review.
Running away from a bad situation seems like the only right thing to do for both Knox and Natalie. Until it gets much, much worse. Saving Natalie from being attacked and taken against her will, Knox comes to see that's she's in need of escape too. Freedom is just on the horizon if only they can just get to it.
This is my first Jessica Linden book and I have to say I enjoyed it a lot more than I had expected too. Sadly, I thought it was going to be like all the other romantic suspenses I've read lately. There is usually two storylines when it comes to a romantic suspense- 1) a drawn out build to both the suspense and romance and 2) a fast intro that lead to a faster comclusion. Surprisingly, Fight for Me is a happy medium that gives you a fast intro, a slow burn of romance with a fierce protective instincts, and a conclusion you can see happening by still shocked all the same.
Natalie, our heroine, didn't plan for her escape to fail. And it does so miserably. She also didn't plan for Knox, a street fighting thug who is also looking to escape. But once they both see the need for freedom in each other, a special bond is created that neither can let go of. Not many authors can capture the intensity in which a bond such as this one is like. Miss Linden did an excellent job in creating it. Some things seemed out of place, random that could have been left out and the heat was a wee bit dull for normal romantic suspense.
With that said and it was pretty easy to overlook, this book had me on the edge of my seat! A must for fans of this genre!
I was gifted a copy of this novel from the JeepDiva in exchange for an honest review.
August 30, 2016
"It was crazy. The timing was terrible and he was a street fighter, coming from a life she knew nothing about. It shouldn't make any sense. And yet, it was the only thing in her life that did make sense right now."
4 fight for me stars!!!
Knox has known what living in the streets is like and he's been taught to fight for what he wants. Which is why he's now an MMA fighter. After a bad fight one night he has to leave his city in order to survive, which is where he runs into Natalie, who also is on the run. And seeing how unlike him she is, he knows he was to protect her no matter what the cost. Natalie is on the run from her cruel father, tired of being help captive and under his thumb, she's decided she's had enough. She never thought she'd run into the arms of a handsome stranger, but she knows she's not ready to leave.
Intense and on the edge of my seat... I couldn't put this book down!!! I fell for Knox, even though he's totally rough around the edges, he's got such a big heart... even though you have to crack down some walls to get to it. Natalie is the perfect blend for him. The story was entertaining and definitely kept me on my toes!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club
4 fight for me stars!!!
Knox has known what living in the streets is like and he's been taught to fight for what he wants. Which is why he's now an MMA fighter. After a bad fight one night he has to leave his city in order to survive, which is where he runs into Natalie, who also is on the run. And seeing how unlike him she is, he knows he was to protect her no matter what the cost. Natalie is on the run from her cruel father, tired of being help captive and under his thumb, she's decided she's had enough. She never thought she'd run into the arms of a handsome stranger, but she knows she's not ready to leave.
Intense and on the edge of my seat... I couldn't put this book down!!! I fell for Knox, even though he's totally rough around the edges, he's got such a big heart... even though you have to crack down some walls to get to it. Natalie is the perfect blend for him. The story was entertaining and definitely kept me on my toes!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club
August 31, 2016
3.5 Stars
Action & passion from beginning to end. That's what you'll find reading Jessica Linden's Fight For Me. When fate brings Knox and Natalie together, they find themselves on the run and facing feelings that neither have experienced before. All in all I thought this was an easy and entertaining read.
When the story opens, Knox has put himself in a bit of a predicament. He's one bad-ass MMA "underground" fighter who meets his match in a the form of a virginal upper-class princess. Natalie has also created a bit of drama when she runs away from her family home. Escaping from her father's house creates events that create a mystery, pushing Knox and Natalie into an immediate bond. This is story where insta-love really works as Linden creates a sweet and sexy connection between Knox and Natalie.
Their foes are known, but just how far they will go to get what they want leads to a dangerous chase. I loved seeing Natalie come out of her shell and Knox giving over to a softer side of his alpha maleness. At it's heart Fight For Me is fast paced suspenseful read that while not entirely predictable, there's nothing hugely surprising in the way things shake out for these two. 3.5 stars and recommendation in the romance suspense genre.
Action & passion from beginning to end. That's what you'll find reading Jessica Linden's Fight For Me. When fate brings Knox and Natalie together, they find themselves on the run and facing feelings that neither have experienced before. All in all I thought this was an easy and entertaining read.
When the story opens, Knox has put himself in a bit of a predicament. He's one bad-ass MMA "underground" fighter who meets his match in a the form of a virginal upper-class princess. Natalie has also created a bit of drama when she runs away from her family home. Escaping from her father's house creates events that create a mystery, pushing Knox and Natalie into an immediate bond. This is story where insta-love really works as Linden creates a sweet and sexy connection between Knox and Natalie.
Their foes are known, but just how far they will go to get what they want leads to a dangerous chase. I loved seeing Natalie come out of her shell and Knox giving over to a softer side of his alpha maleness. At it's heart Fight For Me is fast paced suspenseful read that while not entirely predictable, there's nothing hugely surprising in the way things shake out for these two. 3.5 stars and recommendation in the romance suspense genre.
August 14, 2016
This tale is dark & gritty yet very exciting. Linden develops a fantastic, one of a kind tale that had me on the edge of my seat throughout. It was an intense and creatively developed plot with all the fixings. She is an extremely descriptive author who uses every aspect of this world to make the story more vivid. Danger lurks around every corner as the characters find themselves in tight spot after tight spot, all the while getting closer to one another.
Linden’s cast of characters gave me chills. Some of them had me cringing each and every time they were even mentioned. Danger wafted off of them. At the same time, I love how she melded danger and caring in Knox’s character. Knowing what he’s capable of made him seem both safe and dangerous. Linden also goes so in-depth into Natalie’s background that I felt as if I lived it with her. The main characters have explosive chemistry that is vividly real.
This story is hot from beginning to end. This fast paced tale is one that I’d definitely recommend to others. I could barely put it down.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
Linden’s cast of characters gave me chills. Some of them had me cringing each and every time they were even mentioned. Danger wafted off of them. At the same time, I love how she melded danger and caring in Knox’s character. Knowing what he’s capable of made him seem both safe and dangerous. Linden also goes so in-depth into Natalie’s background that I felt as if I lived it with her. The main characters have explosive chemistry that is vividly real.
This story is hot from beginning to end. This fast paced tale is one that I’d definitely recommend to others. I could barely put it down.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2016
Although I liked the introduction of both characters after that bit how they met and what not long after was a bit too rushed and seems ridiculous to me. It actually turned me off of the book at first. But I wanted to give this book a fair chance and read it. So glad that I did because after a couple of things that I deemed ridiculous happened, when I was about 30% into the book things picked up and I got used to how things were running and I found myself really enjoying this book. There is almost never moment when things are just chill. There was always something going on and when things were starting to reveal and started to look slightly up something always happens. I liked that this book kept me on my toes and constantly wondering whats going to happen next. Its a great story and I really enjoyed it.
August 23, 2016
The hero saved the heroine. While they were fighting and trying to survive, they fell in love with one another in the middle of the mess. The sexual chemistry between these two is strong, so the sex scenes are hot.The couple gets their HEA. This book includes danger and action throughout. This was a good read. I enjoyed this book from the very first page to the very last.
ARC received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2016
Review can be read at It's About The Book
Running away isn’t always the answer, but Natalie had to get out of her father’s control. After her mother died, she’d been isolated in the house, unable to go out or do anything without her father’s consent. And the way he was acting was plain vile, taking money from her trust whenever he wanted to since he was her “guardian” and felt he controlled her. Whatever happened to taking care of her because he loved her?
She really doubted he loved anyone but himself.
Knox has been fighting in the underground fight club for the last ten years. He’d initially loved it and living with X, his mentor. However, he’d come to see with clearer eyes that X was not a father figure at all. In fact, he was evil and only considered Knox a pawn in his empire. After finally getting at the end of his rope, he attacked X after a fight. Running away only caused X’s men to chase after him, determined to bring him back into the fold. Finding a woman being harassed in a dark alley, he attacked her attackers.
But as we all know, no good deed goes unpunished.
Now Knox and Natalie are on the run from both her father’s goons and the enforcers from X. When their enemies join forces to try to capture them, how in the world are these two going to escape?
I really loved how the characters were portrayed and I was so happy they both escaped! I just wasn’t sure HOW they were going to ever get to a safe place where they could just be. I loved how Jessica Linden concocted such a great plot–didn’t see it coming–but it was genius! This was a great romantic suspense without a lot of angst or drama–a perfect, uncomplicated read. Thanks!
Running away isn’t always the answer, but Natalie had to get out of her father’s control. After her mother died, she’d been isolated in the house, unable to go out or do anything without her father’s consent. And the way he was acting was plain vile, taking money from her trust whenever he wanted to since he was her “guardian” and felt he controlled her. Whatever happened to taking care of her because he loved her?
She really doubted he loved anyone but himself.
Knox has been fighting in the underground fight club for the last ten years. He’d initially loved it and living with X, his mentor. However, he’d come to see with clearer eyes that X was not a father figure at all. In fact, he was evil and only considered Knox a pawn in his empire. After finally getting at the end of his rope, he attacked X after a fight. Running away only caused X’s men to chase after him, determined to bring him back into the fold. Finding a woman being harassed in a dark alley, he attacked her attackers.
But as we all know, no good deed goes unpunished.
Now Knox and Natalie are on the run from both her father’s goons and the enforcers from X. When their enemies join forces to try to capture them, how in the world are these two going to escape?
I really loved how the characters were portrayed and I was so happy they both escaped! I just wasn’t sure HOW they were going to ever get to a safe place where they could just be. I loved how Jessica Linden concocted such a great plot–didn’t see it coming–but it was genius! This was a great romantic suspense without a lot of angst or drama–a perfect, uncomplicated read. Thanks!
August 30, 2016
A battle worn MMA fighter and an emotionally drained, caged socialite sounds like an almost impossible match if you live outside of romanceland. But thankfully we all do, so when I came across the plot of this book, I thought this kind of opposites attract story would be the perfect thing to read. Apart from the feeling that it started from the middle and paced pretty fast for my idea of romance, this was a good book. One that had much action in it to keep my interest.
Knox is a fighter that sweats and bleeds under the man known as X. This X is an asshole who uses and abuses his fighters and deals with much more illegal things outside the rings. Natalie seems like a happy, perfect young woman on the outside, yet she fights a different kind of battle in her own world, one that’s quite a lot different than Knox’s. Their paths collide under what I can only call fate induced circumstances, and they find themselves in a fight against many enemies where the prize is their freedom and the loser gets the death penalty. Tough life. Not very good odds.
Like I said in the beginning, this book felt like it started from the middle, and we missed the part where Natalie and Knox get acquainted. I don’t mind instantly falling in love, or being affected by one another, but even then I want some sort of transition. A few sentences that are rightly chosen can help me let the instant love thing slide, and I can concentrate on the rest of the story. I didn’t think I got that here. Not that I didn’t buy Natalie and Knox’s feelings for each other, but trust was a very delicate thing for these two and I thought they gave that to each other too quickly.
As fast paced as their romance, the action these two had experienced was very much so too. And that’s where I had the feeling this would’ve been great as an action romance movie. A bit more delving into the development of the romance and the book would’ve been taken up a notch. But perhaps the action left no room for that, I don’t know. It was exciting though, to see what was happening and what was going to be next. I wouldn’t be lying if I said I kinda looked forward to that more than I did Natalie and Knox’s romance. Heh. That, and Knox’s past with X. I liked that it was revealed bit by bit how Knox got tangled up with X from the start, and how he ended up trying to cut all ties with him. I love to read character pasts if there are deep issues with them. It helps with my understanding the character, plus it’s fun.
A good book to pass the time and enjoy if you like action along with your romance. And of course if you don’t mind the hero and heroine instantly forming a bond and going from there. While it’s not normally my cup of tea, it didn’t bother me that much either.
Knox is a fighter that sweats and bleeds under the man known as X. This X is an asshole who uses and abuses his fighters and deals with much more illegal things outside the rings. Natalie seems like a happy, perfect young woman on the outside, yet she fights a different kind of battle in her own world, one that’s quite a lot different than Knox’s. Their paths collide under what I can only call fate induced circumstances, and they find themselves in a fight against many enemies where the prize is their freedom and the loser gets the death penalty. Tough life. Not very good odds.
Like I said in the beginning, this book felt like it started from the middle, and we missed the part where Natalie and Knox get acquainted. I don’t mind instantly falling in love, or being affected by one another, but even then I want some sort of transition. A few sentences that are rightly chosen can help me let the instant love thing slide, and I can concentrate on the rest of the story. I didn’t think I got that here. Not that I didn’t buy Natalie and Knox’s feelings for each other, but trust was a very delicate thing for these two and I thought they gave that to each other too quickly.
As fast paced as their romance, the action these two had experienced was very much so too. And that’s where I had the feeling this would’ve been great as an action romance movie. A bit more delving into the development of the romance and the book would’ve been taken up a notch. But perhaps the action left no room for that, I don’t know. It was exciting though, to see what was happening and what was going to be next. I wouldn’t be lying if I said I kinda looked forward to that more than I did Natalie and Knox’s romance. Heh. That, and Knox’s past with X. I liked that it was revealed bit by bit how Knox got tangled up with X from the start, and how he ended up trying to cut all ties with him. I love to read character pasts if there are deep issues with them. It helps with my understanding the character, plus it’s fun.
A good book to pass the time and enjoy if you like action along with your romance. And of course if you don’t mind the hero and heroine instantly forming a bond and going from there. While it’s not normally my cup of tea, it didn’t bother me that much either.
September 15, 2016
3.5 stars
To say I really, really wanted to love this book is an understatement. The elements in this book had everything that I love - an obsessed fighter alpha, instalove, steam, suspense, action and a heroine that will not go down without a fight. Even the fast pace at which this story moved didn't bother me, as a book is about escape. What missed the mark slightly for me, and is just my opinion, was my connection with the main characters, which is the evolution of the WHOLE story.
This is not to say that the storyline wasn't intriguing, because it was well thought out, or the writing was poor, because it wasn't. The bones of this book is very solid.
Natalie has lived a life of privledge and on the surface it looks like she wants for nothing. But behind the scenes, things are not what they seem. A father that is manipulative and more focused on the family fortune and keeping her under his thumb at every turn, means that she has zero freedom. Desperate to escape, she hatches a plan run away. All goes according to plan - until it doesn't.
Knox has grown up on the wrong side of the tracks. With little prospects, he a champion underground fighter. But even though he is a winner, he is under the control of xx. Faced with a decision that he is not willing to agree to, Knox takes matters into his own hands that sets of a chain reaction of him being on the run.
A chance meeting during their daring escapes sets the course for these two unlikely allies. The attraction is undeniable. The tension is extreme. They must rely on each other to escape unscathed, but can two completely opposite upbringings be overcome to find happiness, while surviving those chasing them down?
I loved the suspense element of this book. I was draw into the tension of trying to find out what the next move would be. The underlying storyline is what kept me turning the pages of this book. This was bolstered by the awesome secondary characters that brought and whole other element and dimension to the story.
The sex scenes in this book were HOT and I love an alpha that is not afraid of how he feels or letting his girl know. I loved that there were no games between these two – nor the back and forth of will they, won’t they.
Linden’s writing was spot on and never did I feel like the story was dragging, nor did it feel like the action or sex happened for the sake of it – it really built on the story. And while these characters did not work for me, I really enjoyed this authors writing style and will definitely read another book by this author.
For more reviews, preorders and new releases:
Redhot Romance Website
READ our magazine dedicated to ROMANCE
To say I really, really wanted to love this book is an understatement. The elements in this book had everything that I love - an obsessed fighter alpha, instalove, steam, suspense, action and a heroine that will not go down without a fight. Even the fast pace at which this story moved didn't bother me, as a book is about escape. What missed the mark slightly for me, and is just my opinion, was my connection with the main characters, which is the evolution of the WHOLE story.
This is not to say that the storyline wasn't intriguing, because it was well thought out, or the writing was poor, because it wasn't. The bones of this book is very solid.
Natalie has lived a life of privledge and on the surface it looks like she wants for nothing. But behind the scenes, things are not what they seem. A father that is manipulative and more focused on the family fortune and keeping her under his thumb at every turn, means that she has zero freedom. Desperate to escape, she hatches a plan run away. All goes according to plan - until it doesn't.
Knox has grown up on the wrong side of the tracks. With little prospects, he a champion underground fighter. But even though he is a winner, he is under the control of xx. Faced with a decision that he is not willing to agree to, Knox takes matters into his own hands that sets of a chain reaction of him being on the run.
A chance meeting during their daring escapes sets the course for these two unlikely allies. The attraction is undeniable. The tension is extreme. They must rely on each other to escape unscathed, but can two completely opposite upbringings be overcome to find happiness, while surviving those chasing them down?
I loved the suspense element of this book. I was draw into the tension of trying to find out what the next move would be. The underlying storyline is what kept me turning the pages of this book. This was bolstered by the awesome secondary characters that brought and whole other element and dimension to the story.
The sex scenes in this book were HOT and I love an alpha that is not afraid of how he feels or letting his girl know. I loved that there were no games between these two – nor the back and forth of will they, won’t they.
Linden’s writing was spot on and never did I feel like the story was dragging, nor did it feel like the action or sex happened for the sake of it – it really built on the story. And while these characters did not work for me, I really enjoyed this authors writing style and will definitely read another book by this author.
For more reviews, preorders and new releases:
Redhot Romance Website
READ our magazine dedicated to ROMANCE
September 29, 2016
Review copy courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley.
This author is new to me but when I read the blurb about this book, I knew I had to try it! I love MMA-themed romances and this one was a fun read.
I liked Natalie well enough. I don't know if she would normally be a heroine that I would root for but the author made her totally likable and relatable. She's definitely a rich girl but she never had it easy. Her mom died at an early age and her dad is useless and awful. I liked that Natalie decided what she wanted and figured out a way to get it. And that she never gave up. She wasn't a perfectly strong heroine all the time but that just made me like her even more.
Knox was pretty cool. I liked that he was all about himself at the start of the book but after he met Natalie, that changed. I don't mean that in a bad way though. Knox has lived his life on his own terms and all by himself. Of course, now he regrets some of the choices he made and is doing what needs doing to get himself out of the trouble he's in. But most of all, I liked that he was this bad ass MMA fighter who has a major soft spot for this woman in trouble.
I thought the progression of the relationship between Natalie and Knox was crazy unbelievable. I mean, they meet and he's practically in love. He'll do anything, including die, for her. As much as I like that sentiment in my romance novels, it was a teensy bit off-putting here since it happened so quickly. And it was much more intense than a man wanting to protect a helpless woman. Like I said, he was willing to die for her from the moment he saw her and I just thought that was a little too unusual.
The writing in this book is phenomenal. I hate giving it only 3 stars. But as much as I liked the writing, the story was just a little bit past the hard-to-believe area. There's a TON of action from start to finish so I think readers who love action would love this book! The Sexy Time is hot and plentiful but Natalie is a virgin and so there's all the baggage that comes along with that. You know, the hero doesn't want to be the one to deflower her because she's too good and kind and he's not worthy, blah blah blah. It can be boring sometimes for me but if you're into that, there you go! I'll definitely be reading this author again and despite my issues with this story, it was still a good book and a fun read!
This author is new to me but when I read the blurb about this book, I knew I had to try it! I love MMA-themed romances and this one was a fun read.
I liked Natalie well enough. I don't know if she would normally be a heroine that I would root for but the author made her totally likable and relatable. She's definitely a rich girl but she never had it easy. Her mom died at an early age and her dad is useless and awful. I liked that Natalie decided what she wanted and figured out a way to get it. And that she never gave up. She wasn't a perfectly strong heroine all the time but that just made me like her even more.
Knox was pretty cool. I liked that he was all about himself at the start of the book but after he met Natalie, that changed. I don't mean that in a bad way though. Knox has lived his life on his own terms and all by himself. Of course, now he regrets some of the choices he made and is doing what needs doing to get himself out of the trouble he's in. But most of all, I liked that he was this bad ass MMA fighter who has a major soft spot for this woman in trouble.
I thought the progression of the relationship between Natalie and Knox was crazy unbelievable. I mean, they meet and he's practically in love. He'll do anything, including die, for her. As much as I like that sentiment in my romance novels, it was a teensy bit off-putting here since it happened so quickly. And it was much more intense than a man wanting to protect a helpless woman. Like I said, he was willing to die for her from the moment he saw her and I just thought that was a little too unusual.
The writing in this book is phenomenal. I hate giving it only 3 stars. But as much as I liked the writing, the story was just a little bit past the hard-to-believe area. There's a TON of action from start to finish so I think readers who love action would love this book! The Sexy Time is hot and plentiful but Natalie is a virgin and so there's all the baggage that comes along with that. You know, the hero doesn't want to be the one to deflower her because she's too good and kind and he's not worthy, blah blah blah. It can be boring sometimes for me but if you're into that, there you go! I'll definitely be reading this author again and despite my issues with this story, it was still a good book and a fun read!
August 30, 2016
“She was going to destroy him, and she had no fucking clue.”
Fight for Me is a quick and easy read. This book is pretty intense and hits the ground running. The story-line is intriguing and filled with lots of danger and mystery. Fight for Me will certainly keep you on your toes and will have you wondering what will happen next.
Overall, I thought this book was an ok read. I liked Natalie and Knox. Natalie really took me by surprise. She was not what I was expecting at all. I loved her feisty attitude and that she give as good as she gets. Knox is rather intense. He’s a fighter and hasn’t lived a good life. When he meets Natalie, he can’t help but be drawn to her and feels insanely protective of her. Together, the two of them have some really explosive chemistry.
My only issue with this story was the pacing. Now, I am normally a huge fan of fast paced stories. I love when they just hit the ground running and there is never a dull moment. That part of the pacing is not the issue. My issue with the pacing has to do with the speed of Natalie and Knox’s relationship. This book is not a novella, so I had a hard time wrapping my mind around the speed of their relationship. I mean, it took insta-love to a whole other level. They were practically in the kissing, I can’t live without you phase within minutes of meeting each other and that just didn’t feel believable to me. So, while I do think they had some great chemistry, the speed of their relationship just didn’t work for me.
Fight for Me is a fast-paced, action packed story. It’s filled with lots of drama, steam and danger. Fight for Me is the debut novel by author Jessica Linden. I do feel that this author does have a lot of potential, so even though this book was not a 100% hit for me, I would be open to checking out more from her in the future.
Fight for Me is a quick and easy read. This book is pretty intense and hits the ground running. The story-line is intriguing and filled with lots of danger and mystery. Fight for Me will certainly keep you on your toes and will have you wondering what will happen next.
Overall, I thought this book was an ok read. I liked Natalie and Knox. Natalie really took me by surprise. She was not what I was expecting at all. I loved her feisty attitude and that she give as good as she gets. Knox is rather intense. He’s a fighter and hasn’t lived a good life. When he meets Natalie, he can’t help but be drawn to her and feels insanely protective of her. Together, the two of them have some really explosive chemistry.
My only issue with this story was the pacing. Now, I am normally a huge fan of fast paced stories. I love when they just hit the ground running and there is never a dull moment. That part of the pacing is not the issue. My issue with the pacing has to do with the speed of Natalie and Knox’s relationship. This book is not a novella, so I had a hard time wrapping my mind around the speed of their relationship. I mean, it took insta-love to a whole other level. They were practically in the kissing, I can’t live without you phase within minutes of meeting each other and that just didn’t feel believable to me. So, while I do think they had some great chemistry, the speed of their relationship just didn’t work for me.
Fight for Me is a fast-paced, action packed story. It’s filled with lots of drama, steam and danger. Fight for Me is the debut novel by author Jessica Linden. I do feel that this author does have a lot of potential, so even though this book was not a 100% hit for me, I would be open to checking out more from her in the future.
July 31, 2016
Raised in the streets, Knox only knows how to fight and that’s how he’s survived living in the MMA world. He takes pride in his victories and his fists, but when he lands himself in a deadly situation, running is the only way he can survive. Natalie is through living under her father’s rule, pretending to be the perfect daughter. Only she knows her father’s dark side of his wealth and sophistication. Running in the middle of the night is the only way she can escape without notice of the many security and body guards on her father’s payroll. When Knox and Natalie cross paths, he quickly realizes she isn’t cut out for life on the streets and despite his brain telling him he doesn’t need to complication, he can’t help but feel the need to protect her at any cost. Together on the run, they quickly realize their attraction leads to explosive passion and neither one can stay away. As their time starts running out on staying hidden, they need to decide if staying apart gives them a better shot or if their love is enough to fight together.
This book moved very quickly. Right from the beginning you are thrown into the action and intensity. When Knox and Natalie meet, their attraction is very quick and their feelings for one another develop fairly quickly but none of that bothered me. I absolutely love this book. I couldn’t put it down after I started and was on the edge the whole time. I quickly fell in love with Knox so I can understand how easy it was for Natalie. This book is awesome and I would definitely read it again as well as more books by this author.
This book moved very quickly. Right from the beginning you are thrown into the action and intensity. When Knox and Natalie meet, their attraction is very quick and their feelings for one another develop fairly quickly but none of that bothered me. I absolutely love this book. I couldn’t put it down after I started and was on the edge the whole time. I quickly fell in love with Knox so I can understand how easy it was for Natalie. This book is awesome and I would definitely read it again as well as more books by this author.
August 30, 2016
I’m just going to skip the recap of this book because the synopsis of the story does a pretty good job of letting you know what the story is about. But what is doesn’t tell you is that you are about to embark on an extremely intense journey filled with nonstop action, high-stacks drama and passion that is off the charts! Holy smokes….to say I am beyond exhausted after reading this outstanding story would be a major understatement.
From the very first page, I was hooked and craved to know how this story would end. Natalie and Knox, although from opposite sides of the social spectrum, are two people who instantly connected with this insanely, intense chemistry and I wanted them to overcome everything that was thrown their way so that they could have their happy ending. Every time these two turned around, trouble was waiting right there for them and they did what needed to be done in order to not only get the truth but to finally stop running.
Fight For Me is an amazing story that is extremely well written with strong characters and a story line that flowed effortlessly. To even stop reading for a minute was difficult as the story was constantly on my mind. If you love a gritty romance with tons of action and suspense, then I would highly recommend that you read this one!
5 insanely hot stars
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
From the very first page, I was hooked and craved to know how this story would end. Natalie and Knox, although from opposite sides of the social spectrum, are two people who instantly connected with this insanely, intense chemistry and I wanted them to overcome everything that was thrown their way so that they could have their happy ending. Every time these two turned around, trouble was waiting right there for them and they did what needed to be done in order to not only get the truth but to finally stop running.
Fight For Me is an amazing story that is extremely well written with strong characters and a story line that flowed effortlessly. To even stop reading for a minute was difficult as the story was constantly on my mind. If you love a gritty romance with tons of action and suspense, then I would highly recommend that you read this one!
5 insanely hot stars
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2016
*I received an ARC of this book free from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Fight For Me is a sweet and sexy adrenaline rush. From page one the characters drew me in and the story line held me captive. I absolutely could not put it down.
Natalie may look like the typical spoiled rich girl, but she's not. She's a prisoner in her own home. A home she'll do anything to escape. The only thing she didn't plan on was the lengths her father would go through to get her back.
Knox fought for X since he was a kid, but things aren't what they once seemed and now he wants out. An out he'll have to take, because it surely won't be given.
From the moment Natalie and Knox meet it's a non-stop suspenseful and intense journey. From being chased by her father and hunted by X's men to trying to discover the truth about Natalie's trust fund there is never a dull moment that's for sure.
"I don't want you going anywhere without me," Knox said fiercely. "You're mine to protect. I will defend you with everything I have."
There is suspense, violence, and sex so if you don't like that then you won't want to read this, but if you do...definitely add it to your reading list!
My Favorite Moment: I was so deeply engrossed in this book that I didn't even highlight anything, but I think when they finally come face to face with their pursuers and are forced to do whatever it takes to survive...now that was one hell of a moment.
Fight For Me is a sweet and sexy adrenaline rush. From page one the characters drew me in and the story line held me captive. I absolutely could not put it down.
Natalie may look like the typical spoiled rich girl, but she's not. She's a prisoner in her own home. A home she'll do anything to escape. The only thing she didn't plan on was the lengths her father would go through to get her back.
Knox fought for X since he was a kid, but things aren't what they once seemed and now he wants out. An out he'll have to take, because it surely won't be given.
From the moment Natalie and Knox meet it's a non-stop suspenseful and intense journey. From being chased by her father and hunted by X's men to trying to discover the truth about Natalie's trust fund there is never a dull moment that's for sure.
"I don't want you going anywhere without me," Knox said fiercely. "You're mine to protect. I will defend you with everything I have."
There is suspense, violence, and sex so if you don't like that then you won't want to read this, but if you do...definitely add it to your reading list!
My Favorite Moment: I was so deeply engrossed in this book that I didn't even highlight anything, but I think when they finally come face to face with their pursuers and are forced to do whatever it takes to survive...now that was one hell of a moment.
September 1, 2016
*I received an ARC of this book free from St. Martin’s Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Fight for me is action packed from the moment you start reading.
Natalie is not your typical rich kid. She is trapped in her father’s life ever since she lost her mother. She feels more like a puppet on a string. Deciding enough is enough she runs away from the only life she knows. What she was not prepared for was her father’s employees hunting her down so fast.
Knox is an underground MMA fighter that never loses a fight. Being controlled by a man that he once thought of as a father wants him to throw a fight. Knox just does not have that in him. Deciding he has to get out of the life might just cost him his life.
Knox runs into Natalie when she is fighting for her life. Having the ability to help her he decides it is best for them to stay together to stay safe. When Natalie discovers some secrets in her family she has to decide how she is going to proceed with getting her father away from the family money that belongs to her. Knox has people out for him as well and they both have targets on their heads.
This was a fun read for me. The action that is in this book has you unable to put it down.
My Favorite Moment: I agree, I was so into this book that I do not have a favorite moment. I loved the entire book.
Fight for me is action packed from the moment you start reading.
Natalie is not your typical rich kid. She is trapped in her father’s life ever since she lost her mother. She feels more like a puppet on a string. Deciding enough is enough she runs away from the only life she knows. What she was not prepared for was her father’s employees hunting her down so fast.
Knox is an underground MMA fighter that never loses a fight. Being controlled by a man that he once thought of as a father wants him to throw a fight. Knox just does not have that in him. Deciding he has to get out of the life might just cost him his life.
Knox runs into Natalie when she is fighting for her life. Having the ability to help her he decides it is best for them to stay together to stay safe. When Natalie discovers some secrets in her family she has to decide how she is going to proceed with getting her father away from the family money that belongs to her. Knox has people out for him as well and they both have targets on their heads.
This was a fun read for me. The action that is in this book has you unable to put it down.
My Favorite Moment: I agree, I was so into this book that I do not have a favorite moment. I loved the entire book.
August 30, 2016
This was actually a great debut novel. I honestly wouldn't have known this was a debut novel if it wasn't mentioned in the blurb.
I fell a little bit in love with Knox. The sexy fighter who got in with the wrong crowd and didn't see a way out until one night. When he see's his chance, he takes it.
Natalie has a rich daddy but he's an evil man. Doesn't trust her, always having her watched. Totally cringe worthy. She's had enough..she knows what she has to do to get a way from him and his bodyguards. When she sees her chance, she takes it.
Natalie and Knox end up in the same alley and he goes straight into protector mode. He's an alpha and protects what's his. He considers her his from the very beginning. He's a good man under his take no prisoner attitude.
He has his boss's men coming after him and she has her father's goons coming after her. They'll both do whatever it takes to get out of this alive.
This book has twists and turns, suspense and holy crap moments! It's definitely an insta love book that's for sure.
I was drawn in from the very beginning and read this in one sitting. The story flowed smoothly and made you want to know what was going to happen next. The author will keep you on your toes throughout the book and I can't wait to get my hands on the next book already!
I fell a little bit in love with Knox. The sexy fighter who got in with the wrong crowd and didn't see a way out until one night. When he see's his chance, he takes it.
Natalie has a rich daddy but he's an evil man. Doesn't trust her, always having her watched. Totally cringe worthy. She's had enough..she knows what she has to do to get a way from him and his bodyguards. When she sees her chance, she takes it.
Natalie and Knox end up in the same alley and he goes straight into protector mode. He's an alpha and protects what's his. He considers her his from the very beginning. He's a good man under his take no prisoner attitude.
He has his boss's men coming after him and she has her father's goons coming after her. They'll both do whatever it takes to get out of this alive.
This book has twists and turns, suspense and holy crap moments! It's definitely an insta love book that's for sure.
I was drawn in from the very beginning and read this in one sitting. The story flowed smoothly and made you want to know what was going to happen next. The author will keep you on your toes throughout the book and I can't wait to get my hands on the next book already!
September 1, 2016
Trapped, one in a fighter's cage the other in a gilded cage that is a luxury lifestyle. Having both had an epiphany they accidentally cross paths whilst running away from the people that have kept them prisoner within their lives. Knox is an underground fighter, raised on the streets and taken under the wing of X, a man that holds a lot of power. Natalie is the sole heir to a fortune but is kept muzzled by her cold hearted father. Breaking free from the monotony of their existence they literally run into each other in a dark alley where a chain of events leaves them reliant upon each other. Knox falls hard and fast for the stunning young woman that is the polar opposite to himself. Natalie swoons for the man that saved her although he should have walked away, he's darkly dangerous yet she had never felt so safe before. Can they out run their pasts?
Fight for me is an action packed non stop on the run read. It's an easy read with the plot not holding many surprises. They fall insta in lust that quickly turns into love and it's an intense relationship due to their circumstances. It's a great story without any shocks. The characters are likeable and I enjoyed the overall story.
A three and a half star read.
~*~ Netgalley kindly provided an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review ~*~
Fight for me is an action packed non stop on the run read. It's an easy read with the plot not holding many surprises. They fall insta in lust that quickly turns into love and it's an intense relationship due to their circumstances. It's a great story without any shocks. The characters are likeable and I enjoyed the overall story.
A three and a half star read.
~*~ Netgalley kindly provided an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review ~*~
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