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Baum's Boxing #2
Fortune and Fate
An alternative cover edition for this ASIN can be found here.
Scarred and blind, Cole Price’s life is turned upside down when he loses his career with the Royal Marines, and when the mother of his daughter insists he’s too disfigured to ever be an effective father. When Cole is offered a chance to remain an active-duty Marine, working in secret in the States, he jumps at the chance to feel useful again. Little does he know that single decision will change his entire future.
Cole takes up training at Baum’s Boxing, a gym for disabled veterans, and it’s there he meets the intriguing Ryan Anderson, a man who is hell bent on paying penance for one, terrible mistake made in his youth. Though Cole knows having a relationship is not in the cards for him, he can’t seem to stay away from the tortured lawyer, and he can’t seem to protect his heart. When the past comes to call, putting Cole and everyone he cares about in danger, will he find the strength to do what’s necessary to save them, or will he let his fears take control let everything around him burn?
Each book in Baum's Boxing series contains no cliffhangers and guaranteed HEA.
Scarred and blind, Cole Price’s life is turned upside down when he loses his career with the Royal Marines, and when the mother of his daughter insists he’s too disfigured to ever be an effective father. When Cole is offered a chance to remain an active-duty Marine, working in secret in the States, he jumps at the chance to feel useful again. Little does he know that single decision will change his entire future.
Cole takes up training at Baum’s Boxing, a gym for disabled veterans, and it’s there he meets the intriguing Ryan Anderson, a man who is hell bent on paying penance for one, terrible mistake made in his youth. Though Cole knows having a relationship is not in the cards for him, he can’t seem to stay away from the tortured lawyer, and he can’t seem to protect his heart. When the past comes to call, putting Cole and everyone he cares about in danger, will he find the strength to do what’s necessary to save them, or will he let his fears take control let everything around him burn?
Each book in Baum's Boxing series contains no cliffhangers and guaranteed HEA.
224 pages, ebook
First published January 17, 2019
153 people are currently reading
323 people want to read
About the author
E.M. Lindsey
146 books1,440 followersE.M. Lindsey is the author of MM contemporary romance. She presently lives and works in the southeastern United States.
EM Lindsey also writes MM Paranormal Romance under the pseudonym Ariel Millar.
EM Lindsey also writes MM Paranormal Romance under the pseudonym Ariel Millar.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
March 21, 2019
I think I liked Fortune and Fate even more than the first book in the series, despite the few editing/proof reading issues I had with this one in places, and I really liked the first book! Loved the suspense in this one, more so because Cole acknowledged that he couldn't be Captain America and save the world, given his disability. I love that the author didn't play the whole "feel sorry for me" card. Cole is blind, it is what it is and he's a phenomenal character to be able to pull himself up by his boot straps and keep on going.
The ending is a bit rushed but like with the couple in the previous book I hope to see more of Ryan and Cole living their dream in the next book.
The ending is a bit rushed but like with the couple in the previous book I hope to see more of Ryan and Cole living their dream in the next book.
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June 4, 2020No can do. Can't like Ryan. Read some other reviewers who felt the same but still gave it a shot. The guy's answer to "dealing" is f*cking. Can't get over that he cheated on Noah. I get that if it's not the right person for you, you can be a real ass. We selfish ppl often work that way. But I draw the line at a person can't be honest enough to address what's not working by breaking up first BEFORE cheating. Cheating is never OK. It's weak and selfish and I don't like it in my romances, even if it's in the past.
April 28, 2019
Whoa! This was even better than the first! I really liked both MCs but the suspense angle was so good. I thought I had it figured out but it was so much more! This is well-paced, intense steamy romance between former British marine and an American lawyer.
We met Ryan in the first book. Here many things about him become clear. His insecurities, his low self esteem prevent him from forming any romantic bonds. One time that he tried, he ruined it but thankfully he managed to salvage the relationship and turn it into solid friendship. But there is something different about Cole. He can't stay away. Soon Ryan feels more than he should but he still can't let go of this niggle in his head that he is not good enough. But the circumstances force him to reevaluate how he sees himself and finally able to reach out to Cole. I loved how understanding Ryan was, how he just let Cole be and was always there for him without making him feel less of a man.
Cole has been dealt a harsh hand in life. After being blinded during service he is offered an opportunity to prove himself useful. I loved Cole's strength, his resilience and determination to live his life to the fullest. It might be slow going but he is trying. His relationship with Ryan is one of the brightest spots in his life. But when the danger from his past comes calling, he truly understands the meaning of friends and family, he understands that they don't care that he can't see - it's what's inside that matters.
The relationship's pace was well-measured. There were ups and downs, there were doubts and harsh words, there were tender and passionate moments - both men went through troubled times trying to stand their ground against that which tried to tear them apart. The climax of the story was so well-written. It was intense, emotional and with just the right amount of fear to make me grip the edge of my seat. I loved that in the end Isabel, Cole's ex, was not the raging b*tch that she was portrayed - she was cruelly deceived and used just as their daughter Claire was. In the end Cole finally found his place with Ryan and his new family at Baum's, he had his daughter back in his life and the promise of happy and stable future. It was the best kind of ending, and I loved it! I highly recommend it!
We met Ryan in the first book. Here many things about him become clear. His insecurities, his low self esteem prevent him from forming any romantic bonds. One time that he tried, he ruined it but thankfully he managed to salvage the relationship and turn it into solid friendship. But there is something different about Cole. He can't stay away. Soon Ryan feels more than he should but he still can't let go of this niggle in his head that he is not good enough. But the circumstances force him to reevaluate how he sees himself and finally able to reach out to Cole. I loved how understanding Ryan was, how he just let Cole be and was always there for him without making him feel less of a man.
Cole has been dealt a harsh hand in life. After being blinded during service he is offered an opportunity to prove himself useful. I loved Cole's strength, his resilience and determination to live his life to the fullest. It might be slow going but he is trying. His relationship with Ryan is one of the brightest spots in his life. But when the danger from his past comes calling, he truly understands the meaning of friends and family, he understands that they don't care that he can't see - it's what's inside that matters.
The relationship's pace was well-measured. There were ups and downs, there were doubts and harsh words, there were tender and passionate moments - both men went through troubled times trying to stand their ground against that which tried to tear them apart. The climax of the story was so well-written. It was intense, emotional and with just the right amount of fear to make me grip the edge of my seat. I loved that in the end Isabel, Cole's ex, was not the raging b*tch that she was portrayed - she was cruelly deceived and used just as their daughter Claire was. In the end Cole finally found his place with Ryan and his new family at Baum's, he had his daughter back in his life and the promise of happy and stable future. It was the best kind of ending, and I loved it! I highly recommend it!
June 1, 2019
So, after reading 2 books in this series I have a better understanding of why I can’t rate this any higher than 3 stars. Because in the beginning the relationship stuff is great. There’s hurt/comfort and tentative sweetness for days and I respond well to that. I could read a whole book about these men getting together and trying to work it out. But, the author has added some awkward and underdeveloped suspense/action/blackmail plots that weave throughout the story. And I can’t help but wish the author had gone all-in and developed these threads further, or omitted them altogether, because as it stands now the baddies read to me a little like comic book villains. And then, when it matters, everything is resolved practically off-page.
This book’s plot line was better than book 1, I’ll give them that. And for that I’ll be seeing what happens in book 3. So, I’m liking these enough to satisfy my curiosity for how the romance develops. But I’m skimming a lot of stuff, trying to get back to the relationship.
This book’s plot line was better than book 1, I’ll give them that. And for that I’ll be seeing what happens in book 3. So, I’m liking these enough to satisfy my curiosity for how the romance develops. But I’m skimming a lot of stuff, trying to get back to the relationship.
October 6, 2019
3.5 stars
I really struggled with the beginning of this, but then it picked up and I really liked the last half of the book. I really loved Cole and Ryan together. I have the first of this series but haven't read it yet, but it will be soon.
I really struggled with the beginning of this, but then it picked up and I really liked the last half of the book. I really loved Cole and Ryan together. I have the first of this series but haven't read it yet, but it will be soon.
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January 21, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/21/2019)! 🎁
Blurb:
Scarred and blind, Cole Price’s life is turned upside down when he loses his career with the Royal Marines, and when the mother of his daughter insists he’s too disfigured to ever be an effective father. When Cole is offered a chance to remain an active-duty Marine, working in secret in the States, he jumps at the chance to feel useful again. Little does he know that single decision will change his entire future.
Cole takes up training at Baum’s Boxing, a gym for disabled veterans, and it’s there he meets the intriguing Ryan Anderson, a man who is hell bent on paying penance for one, terrible mistake made in his youth. Though Cole knows having a relationship is not in the cards for him, he can’t seem to stay away from the tortured lawyer, and he can’t seem to protect his heart. When the past comes to call, putting Cole and everyone he cares about in danger, will he find the strength to do what’s necessary to save them, or will he let his fears take control let everything around him burn?
Each book in Baum's Boxing series contains no cliffhangers and guaranteed HEA.
Blurb:
Scarred and blind, Cole Price’s life is turned upside down when he loses his career with the Royal Marines, and when the mother of his daughter insists he’s too disfigured to ever be an effective father. When Cole is offered a chance to remain an active-duty Marine, working in secret in the States, he jumps at the chance to feel useful again. Little does he know that single decision will change his entire future.
Cole takes up training at Baum’s Boxing, a gym for disabled veterans, and it’s there he meets the intriguing Ryan Anderson, a man who is hell bent on paying penance for one, terrible mistake made in his youth. Though Cole knows having a relationship is not in the cards for him, he can’t seem to stay away from the tortured lawyer, and he can’t seem to protect his heart. When the past comes to call, putting Cole and everyone he cares about in danger, will he find the strength to do what’s necessary to save them, or will he let his fears take control let everything around him burn?
Each book in Baum's Boxing series contains no cliffhangers and guaranteed HEA.
August 19, 2023
“He knows,” Ryan said from behind a sigh.
Cole’s smile widened. “I’m fairly sure they all do. You’re not subtle. I’m totally blind and even I know you give me heart-eyes.”
The timelines of these books overlap a bit so you definitely need to read them in order. We met Ryan and Cole in book 1 - Ryan is Noah’s ex who cheated on him years ago, Noah has long since forgiven him and they’re bffs but Ryan has never forgiven himself. And Cole is the totally blind ex-Marine Adrian was training. Add in a whole lot of secrets and danger and that’s this book 😍
I really love how imperfect Lindsey’s characters are and how even side characters have growth. The “this wasn’t supposed to mean anything but it totally does” connection is so swoony and I was reading as fast as humanly possible at the end to get through the hard times to the HEA. This was just exactly what I needed to get over the book hangover from my previous read.
Cole’s smile widened. “I’m fairly sure they all do. You’re not subtle. I’m totally blind and even I know you give me heart-eyes.”
The timelines of these books overlap a bit so you definitely need to read them in order. We met Ryan and Cole in book 1 - Ryan is Noah’s ex who cheated on him years ago, Noah has long since forgiven him and they’re bffs but Ryan has never forgiven himself. And Cole is the totally blind ex-Marine Adrian was training. Add in a whole lot of secrets and danger and that’s this book 😍
I really love how imperfect Lindsey’s characters are and how even side characters have growth. The “this wasn’t supposed to mean anything but it totally does” connection is so swoony and I was reading as fast as humanly possible at the end to get through the hard times to the HEA. This was just exactly what I needed to get over the book hangover from my previous read.
May 3, 2019
4.5 suspenseful stars
This is only the second book I’ve read from this author, the first being book one. This was a surprising plot, more complex than I expected and a lot more dangerous. Cole’s blindness seemed to be presented quite realistically and I quite enjoyed how Ryan was shown interacting with him. The manner in which Ryan and Cole’s characters are built up in book one and Adrian, Noah and Wes are still part of book two really gives them depth and gets my empathy going. Theres a little plot overlap between books one and two. The steam level is just right, with excellent pacing. Dual perspective narratives are one of my favorite styles to read too. Plus now I’m anxious to read book three because apparently the situation from book one is somehow connected. It’s a great twist.
This is only the second book I’ve read from this author, the first being book one. This was a surprising plot, more complex than I expected and a lot more dangerous. Cole’s blindness seemed to be presented quite realistically and I quite enjoyed how Ryan was shown interacting with him. The manner in which Ryan and Cole’s characters are built up in book one and Adrian, Noah and Wes are still part of book two really gives them depth and gets my empathy going. Theres a little plot overlap between books one and two. The steam level is just right, with excellent pacing. Dual perspective narratives are one of my favorite styles to read too. Plus now I’m anxious to read book three because apparently the situation from book one is somehow connected. It’s a great twist.
August 1, 2022
“He knows,” Ryan said from behind a sigh.
Cole’s smile widened. “I’m fairly sure they all do. You’re not subtle. I’m totally blind and even I know you give me heart-eyes.” — Ryan and Cole
Perhaps unsurprisingly the early parts Fortune and Fate follows alongside the events of Below the Belt. With the import of Ryan to Noah and the hints we get from Adrain through the latter parts of Below the Belt it was unavoidable. But what I didn't expect to be given was details of Adrain and Noah's pasts (and not just as it impacts Ryan). That said once I stopped and thought about it it did make sense, Adrian and Noah were wrapped up in their own moment, living in the now, as suits their personalities. Ryan and Cole aren't like that, they need openness and communication in order for a relationship to work. The Baum's Boxing series can in theory be read individually and standalone but I think you get so much more out of them if you read them in order and together. During Fortune and Fate are introduced to some aspects of Fringe Contender, Rhys and Trevor's story. Though we already got a hint of Trevor's truth when it comes to some of the blackmail anyway. But not his whole truth. We know Rhys is bisexual. Trevor is I'm guessing either gay and passing or bi but was not being blackmailed by Charlie over sexuality.
Like Below the Belt once it starts moving it really moves. But there is more of a calmness to the end of this. Cole and Noah take time apart to mull over their growing feelings, new wants and realities before coming together. There are realisations and relationships to contend with and ghosts to banish. We do get to meet Cole's family, including his beautiful daughter Claire and questionably intelligent former partner Isabel. The plot is fairly simple and a bit of a who is who? E.M. Lindsey doesn't throw the positions of the players in your face from the start but the clues are there if you want to see them. A couple of the players important to the plot, outside the leads, were introduced in Below the Belt.
The core characters of the Baum's Boxing series feels like it is actually the Anderson brothers, Wes and Adrian, and Noah who have preexisting relationships with all the other characters. Ryan is Noah's best friend (and ex), Rhys while Ryan's brother is also Noah's friend and importantly Trevor is Noah's former colleague. Ryan also has a surprising relationship with Wes. Wes is undoubtedly loyal to his gorgeous wife, he was also Ryan's lover with her permission. Wes and Anna are poly, but Ryan... really not into women. One of the softest exchanges in Fortune and Fate is “And I can’t lie to you, Ryan, I’m probably going to want you forever.”
Ryan chuckled quietly. “The feeling’s mutual. Trust me.”
“I do." (Wes and Ryan). This isn't a spoiler, it's 5% of the way in before Ryan even meets Cole. I gotta admit I did not expect Wes and Ryan to be anything more than a hook-up level relationship. Or maybe friends with benefits. But it's so much deeper than that.
Okay let me be honest the blurb for Fortune and Fate is a bit misleading and Cole, as much as I adore the man, is an unreliable narrator. Actually, his being an unreliable narrator, that pure human element, may make him even more likable. Cole and his ex, Isabel, were never married. Claire was the product of a one-night stand. While Isabel did what Cole says, Cole didn't fight to be near his daughter Claire, to be part of her life. He ran. He ran to the US and gave up on her. Seven-year-old Claire is no Maggie, but she is still cute. Maggie and Cole is just a whole thing because of course it is. Maggie is Maggie.
Some quotes I liked
• Being brave means to know something is scary, difficult, and dangerous, and doing it anyway, because the possibility of winning the fight is worth the chance of losing it. — Emilie AutumnThis is the epigraph for Fortune and Fate. I include it for three reasons, one I like the quote, two do you have any idea how rare it is to see an epigraph from a non-classic source? And three I really like Emilie Autumn.
• Or rather, the day when he’d been trying to figure out the damned sinks in the locker room and a voice said, “About a foot to your left." — This is quite possibly my favourite first words from one romantic lead to another. Ryan is comfortable with helping someone with limited sight. What isn't here is the way Ryan says this. There is no judgement in his tone. And the whole exchange after this leaves them both struck. (Cole)
• “I just walked by a real douchey looking guy on my way in. Why do I get the feeling I should have punched him in the face?” — This is the reaction to Ryan walking past Mike, the abusive ex of the very sweet Connie. MIke would absolutely deserve it. I mean I laughed because Mike is a douche and it was very obvious when Ryan walked in that Baum's Boxing has just had a Mike visit. (Ryan)
• “You don’t look monstrous, Cole. Trust me. I know what it’s like to live with the insecurity that the only thing the people you care about will see is your scars but…”
“You honestly can’t know what it’s like to live with this,” — This is a moment. Cole being blind cannot see Adrian's scars, cannot see what he wears. This leads to Cole finding out that yes Adrian does know exactly what Cole is feeling. (Adrian and Cole)
• “It mostly hit me on my lower back and legs, which is why I wear braces. But I caught some of it to the face. It ruined my ear and my hearing in it, scarred my face. It took me a long time to accept that the people who give a shit about me see the scars as a part of me, but not something that ruined me. Even when I feel ruined myself. She’s young and it might make her nervous, but she’ll also remember you’re her dad, and if she’s afraid at first, she won’t stay that way." — This is what caused Adrian's scarring. Is this more than what we learned in Below the Belt I think. We knew he was scarred but (Adrian)
• Adrian had given him the courage. He’d felt monstrous and mangled until Adrian had taken his hand and revealed the braille map of scars across his face, his neck, his ear, his back. Adrian had all that, and his lover wanted him in the body he now possessed, and Cole was allowed to have that too. — This is exactly why Adrian did it. It was all about confidence and courage and knowing worth. Something that Cole and Ryan both struggle with deeply. Both carry scars. (Cole)
• It told him absolutely nothing, because he learned early on after losing his sight that what he could feel did not replace what he had once been able to see. It had angered him at first—everything he thought he knew about being blind had been a romanticized lie made for movies and TV. — This is a brilliant moment for me. The refuting of tv stereotypes and the acceptance of anger as part of the process. I know calling it a process is also a stereotype but it's closer to accurate than others. (Cole)
• “It’s not him,” Ryan said, his tone a little more harsh than he intended. “Cole’s amazing. I don’t trust myself. I fucked up so badly with you, and I couldn’t handle doing that to him.”
Noah let out a frustrated sigh. “You were barely an adult, Ryan. The both of us had no business moving in together and trying to play at husbands when we didn’t even know what the fuck being in love was about. We made mistakes and yeah, it sucked, but what’s the point if you can’t move on?” — I appreciate seeing another of these conversations between Noah and Ryan. Bringing age into it is smart. But Noah is a very smart man. The pain it causes him to see Ryan like this because he can't let it go. (Noah and Ryan)
• Something had settled, become permanent, had turned into a love which Ryan would cling to the rest of his life. He didn’t want to be with Noah—the guy deserved far better than him—but he wanted to be in his life, and he was bound and determined to earn his place there. — I really like this. Seeing Noah and Ryan's relationship from Ryan's perspective. We know Noah has forgiven Ryan but Ryan will never forgive himself. He knew what he lost or possibly destroyed. (Ryan)
• It was everything a real relationship was supposed to be without the title or the promises, and he wasn’t sure if that was better, or if he was cheating Cole out of something more stable. In truth, if Cole asked him for more, he knew he’d be willing to give it. — Well at least they're not stupid or lying to themselves, just that lie of omission to each other. (Ryan)
• “You deserve to be happy, Ryan. You know I love you to death and I’ll never stop. You’re one of the sexiest men I have ever met, and a good man too. You don’t give yourself enough credit most days, and I know for a fact you deserve this with Cole. So, you gotta decide if this is what you want, if he’s worth the struggle. Because it’s obviously going to be a struggle.” — 💗 (Wes)
• "But daddy says that the Avengers might take you anyway cos you’re brave enough and cos you’re prettier than Thor.” — 🤩Look this is just cute okay. I can't not share it. (Claire)
“I hate to be the bearer of bad news, man, but it’s too late. Ryan’s already madly in love with you. Relationship or not, if you disappear, it’s going to ruin him.” — Wes
A representative gif:
March 21, 2019
Another winner!
Just when you thought you’ve got it all figured out. All was NOT as it seemed. I believe the author deserves a standing ovation for all the smart twists and turns! This series is turning out to be quite an awesome one!
I like Cole although I honestly don’t know how a Braille computer works. Tried looking it up but gah.... and as a programmer, I don’t think I’d be able to write software, much less decode software, relying on Braille. So either the author took creative licensing to that or I’m just not smart enough. Boohoohoo 😢 LOL!
Although, I want to say good job for busting the myth that when you lose one sense, all your other senses get enhanced. I don’t know why it’s still such a widespread myth! So kudos on pointing that out! 👍👍👍
Also, hats off to the author for upping the ante with each book. I can’t wait to figure out Trevor’s story! Wait for me! I’m coming!! 😝
Just when you thought you’ve got it all figured out. All was NOT as it seemed. I believe the author deserves a standing ovation for all the smart twists and turns! This series is turning out to be quite an awesome one!
I like Cole although I honestly don’t know how a Braille computer works. Tried looking it up but gah.... and as a programmer, I don’t think I’d be able to write software, much less decode software, relying on Braille. So either the author took creative licensing to that or I’m just not smart enough. Boohoohoo 😢 LOL!
Although, I want to say good job for busting the myth that when you lose one sense, all your other senses get enhanced. I don’t know why it’s still such a widespread myth! So kudos on pointing that out! 👍👍👍
Also, hats off to the author for upping the ante with each book. I can’t wait to figure out Trevor’s story! Wait for me! I’m coming!! 😝
January 21, 2019
Fortune and Fate (Baum's Boxing Book 2)
Another hit 😏 Yea...
Anyway, these ppl are amazing. Broken in all different kinds of ways but ultimately stronger for it. And adorable, sweet, absolutely lovable. Hot AF is a plus ^^
I truly enjoyed the over the top plot going on here too. It was fun. Big time.
This series so far works for me.
I'll keep reading 📖
Another hit 😏 Yea...
Anyway, these ppl are amazing. Broken in all different kinds of ways but ultimately stronger for it. And adorable, sweet, absolutely lovable. Hot AF is a plus ^^
I truly enjoyed the over the top plot going on here too. It was fun. Big time.
This series so far works for me.
I'll keep reading 📖
January 24, 2019
I like this one way better than #1.
Less drama, more action.
Loved both guys. The side characters are great too. No overbearing family.
Less drama, more action.
Loved both guys. The side characters are great too. No overbearing family.
March 3, 2019
This series is AWESOME!!! I loved this book so hard! can't wait for book 3
April 17, 2019
While the mystery aspect of this was totally cool, what wasn't was the failure to convert to American English. Yes, the author apologizes, but really, the mistakes being made my 7th grader could have picked up on. Case in point: your apartment gets trashed in the US, thrashed is something totally different. When both the American and the Brit use the same term I get frustrated. Also there is a ton of minor errors.
I would have given this story a 4 or 5, but lack of good editing forces me to downgrade.
I would have given this story a 4 or 5, but lack of good editing forces me to downgrade.
July 21, 2020
Fortune and Fate
I really like this series and the characters! I didn’t have the same issues in this book that the first had. Which the author explains the end of this one. Made much better sense lol. Anyway, I can’t wait to read the next!
I really like this series and the characters! I didn’t have the same issues in this book that the first had. Which the author explains the end of this one. Made much better sense lol. Anyway, I can’t wait to read the next!
June 25, 2019
Cole. EEK! Did Masala make an appearance in this series or is it just a coincidence they both serve Masala Chai?
August 17, 2023
Battle royal
Cole was going to take on the challenger. He just needed to figure out who that was. He knew Ryan would always be on his side though!
Cole was going to take on the challenger. He just needed to figure out who that was. He knew Ryan would always be on his side though!
probably-not-but-freebie
January 21, 2019Freebie at the zon.com right now: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B...
January 25, 2019
Fortune and Fate
Ok I enjoyed the story, but I got a bit confused about a certain coworker and how evil he seemed and how things were different at the end? Why be so unlikable? Anyway other than that confusion this was a good story.
Ok I enjoyed the story, but I got a bit confused about a certain coworker and how evil he seemed and how things were different at the end? Why be so unlikable? Anyway other than that confusion this was a good story.
January 24, 2019
I didn't read the first book in the series about Adrian and Noah but it didn't spoil this read. This is a new author to me and I went in with no expectations but thoroughly enjoyed the book. It's a grown-up, no fluff romance packed full of drama and suspense. Cole and Ryan were so good together and met each other at the right point in both their lives. There's a lot happening here , you'll be guessing who the bad guys are and willing on the MCs. I didn't want to put this down and so happy I saw this book mentioned on Facebook. Looking forward to reading the rest of this series.
February 20, 2019
Fascinating read
This the 2nd book of the Baum’s Boxing and it overlaps a smidge with Below the Belt. (You should read a bit of the storyline weaves in to this one)
Ryan is a lawyer who still feels guilty over destroying his best friends life. He feels that he had sabotaged everything and doesn’t deserve anything good.
Cole is a Major in the Royal Navy and was blinded during combat. He’s still reeling from the after effects of being blind when he had been sighted his whole life.
Neither man want to have a relationship because they believe they are damaged goods. But a relationship blooms and it’s sweet and good and they finally have it.
But Coles past comes back to haunt him and you just don’t know who is doing what.
E.M Lindsey is extremely good at leaving little bits of information making you guess who is doing what. It was fun trying to figure out who the cast of characters were.
The writing style is awesome. I was hanging on to every word. I needed to see how Ryan and Cole developed their relationship.
I cannot wait to read book 3
If you like military veterans, thrillers and happy endings, definitely try out this book
This the 2nd book of the Baum’s Boxing and it overlaps a smidge with Below the Belt. (You should read a bit of the storyline weaves in to this one)
Ryan is a lawyer who still feels guilty over destroying his best friends life. He feels that he had sabotaged everything and doesn’t deserve anything good.
Cole is a Major in the Royal Navy and was blinded during combat. He’s still reeling from the after effects of being blind when he had been sighted his whole life.
Neither man want to have a relationship because they believe they are damaged goods. But a relationship blooms and it’s sweet and good and they finally have it.
But Coles past comes back to haunt him and you just don’t know who is doing what.
E.M Lindsey is extremely good at leaving little bits of information making you guess who is doing what. It was fun trying to figure out who the cast of characters were.
The writing style is awesome. I was hanging on to every word. I needed to see how Ryan and Cole developed their relationship.
I cannot wait to read book 3
If you like military veterans, thrillers and happy endings, definitely try out this book
June 21, 2020
PLEASE READ MY RATING SYSTEM!!!
To my ratings:
A 3,5* is clicked with a 4* but in review marked as 3,5*:
5* - very very good and rare (it would be a Blow-Away-book like ‘Jesse's Smile’ or ‘Joey’ from Angelique Jurd, ‘Save the the kids’ series
from EM Leya, ‘Love’s Tethered Heart’ from C.L. Etta or ‘Liberty’ from Seth King),
it's like an A+
4* - very good and will be often reread and is a WOW-book with interesting plot and surprises (like most of Andrew Grey books and Davidson Kings 'Haven Hart'-series)
it's like an A
3,5* - a really good book, which will be reread a few times (most romances where you can enjoy for relaxing and during waiting times in
hospitals). I can recommend them definitively!
It's like an B+
3* - it could be more then a one-time-reader (2-3 times a year),
it's like a B
2* - it was ok to read, but it's more a one-time-reader (I wouldn't recommend it heartily, but it was ok)
It's like a C-, D
1* - sorry, but that isn't really a book for me (too many mistakes, not nice plot, illogical, so an absolute NO-GO). It's like failure in the
whole line, dismissed, repeat the class
To my ratings:
A 3,5* is clicked with a 4* but in review marked as 3,5*:
5* - very very good and rare (it would be a Blow-Away-book like ‘Jesse's Smile’ or ‘Joey’ from Angelique Jurd, ‘Save the the kids’ series
from EM Leya, ‘Love’s Tethered Heart’ from C.L. Etta or ‘Liberty’ from Seth King),
it's like an A+
4* - very good and will be often reread and is a WOW-book with interesting plot and surprises (like most of Andrew Grey books and Davidson Kings 'Haven Hart'-series)
it's like an A
3,5* - a really good book, which will be reread a few times (most romances where you can enjoy for relaxing and during waiting times in
hospitals). I can recommend them definitively!
It's like an B+
3* - it could be more then a one-time-reader (2-3 times a year),
it's like a B
2* - it was ok to read, but it's more a one-time-reader (I wouldn't recommend it heartily, but it was ok)
It's like a C-, D
1* - sorry, but that isn't really a book for me (too many mistakes, not nice plot, illogical, so an absolute NO-GO). It's like failure in the
whole line, dismissed, repeat the class
November 7, 2022
Intrigue & Suspense
E.M. Lindsey's Book 2 of Baum's Boxing is VERY good. Having read Book 1, I didn't expect much. Where Adrian's and Noah's story was weak, Cole's and Ryan's story was stellar!
Although it can be a standalone, this book is more enjoyable if you read Book 1 first. It sets up Books 2 & 3 meaningfully. Character development starts in Book 1 and almost all the characters figure into the subsequent books.
The plot flows beautifully and I could actually feel the MCs emotions myself. There are loose ends but it probably gets resolved in Book 3, which I am keen to read. Look for my review of that story. Hopefully I'll be even more delighted!
At 270 Kindle app-pages long, this book has it all. Sexy times are very steamy and it is full of intrigue and suspense. I didn't think the story was predictable. This is highly worthy of your time and highly recommended!
E.M. Lindsey's Book 2 of Baum's Boxing is VERY good. Having read Book 1, I didn't expect much. Where Adrian's and Noah's story was weak, Cole's and Ryan's story was stellar!
Although it can be a standalone, this book is more enjoyable if you read Book 1 first. It sets up Books 2 & 3 meaningfully. Character development starts in Book 1 and almost all the characters figure into the subsequent books.
The plot flows beautifully and I could actually feel the MCs emotions myself. There are loose ends but it probably gets resolved in Book 3, which I am keen to read. Look for my review of that story. Hopefully I'll be even more delighted!
At 270 Kindle app-pages long, this book has it all. Sexy times are very steamy and it is full of intrigue and suspense. I didn't think the story was predictable. This is highly worthy of your time and highly recommended!
May 8, 2019
I am now nearly through the trilogy and I loved all the books, am not quite sure yet about which one was my favourite. Here I really liked Ryan and Cole, they had a very sweet Story and I am really glad for Ryan he found the right Person for himself. I dont know yet what to make of Coles Story, altogether I think it is very well imagined but it feels a Little unrealistic. But hell, I am not reading those books for a representation of reality, so it doesnt really put me off if there are some unrealistic elements. They have a very cute love Story and I am looking very much Forward to reading more from this author!
February 2, 2019
This review can be a bit spoilery!
I liked Ryan and Cole, but...
I knew who the bad guys were immediately and I prefer to have me guessing a little bit. Of course the creepy guy is not the bad guy! (Why did he have to be so creepy btw?)
It also did not make any sense that Claire and the bitchy ex came over to stay with Cole. Lead the bad guys right to his doorstep why don’t you....
I immediately knew the guy with Rhys was Trevor and I can’t wait for their story!
I liked Ryan and Cole, but...
I knew who the bad guys were immediately and I prefer to have me guessing a little bit. Of course the creepy guy is not the bad guy! (Why did he have to be so creepy btw?)
It also did not make any sense that Claire and the bitchy ex came over to stay with Cole. Lead the bad guys right to his doorstep why don’t you....
I immediately knew the guy with Rhys was Trevor and I can’t wait for their story!
February 24, 2019
Wow
I absolutely loved this book. The first in the series was great but this one was amazing. The characters so easy to fall in love with. I loved that they were both flawed and yet overcame those flaws. And the action and drama kept me on the edge of my seat and in the end surprised me. These two beautifully fell in love despite the drama and it was a fabulous read that I absolutely reccomend.
I absolutely loved this book. The first in the series was great but this one was amazing. The characters so easy to fall in love with. I loved that they were both flawed and yet overcame those flaws. And the action and drama kept me on the edge of my seat and in the end surprised me. These two beautifully fell in love despite the drama and it was a fabulous read that I absolutely reccomend.
April 19, 2019
Enjoyable
I really liked the characters of Cole and Ryan in this story. Although I did enjoy the thriller aspect of this book, I was a little let down in that the "bad guy" wasn't hard to pick out. There were some parts toward the end though that were a surprise, so it was enjoyable and good. I will definitely be reading the next in the series.
I really liked the characters of Cole and Ryan in this story. Although I did enjoy the thriller aspect of this book, I was a little let down in that the "bad guy" wasn't hard to pick out. There were some parts toward the end though that were a surprise, so it was enjoyable and good. I will definitely be reading the next in the series.
July 21, 2019
3.5
Okay, I think I prefer this one a tiny bit more than the first book. I just really like Ryan and Cole. Both on their own and as a couple. They have their insecurities but they help soothe them in one another and it was really nice. There's some overlap in the timeline of the first installment and the third installment but I didn't find it too distracting.
Okay, I think I prefer this one a tiny bit more than the first book. I just really like Ryan and Cole. Both on their own and as a couple. They have their insecurities but they help soothe them in one another and it was really nice. There's some overlap in the timeline of the first installment and the third installment but I didn't find it too distracting.
April 30, 2019
#SpoilerWarrior
I’m a seeing person so I’m not entirely sure, but I was very impressed with this book. The anxiety of not being able to see who was around and who to trust was this slow, beautiful build up.
I’m a seeing person so I’m not entirely sure, but I was very impressed with this book. The anxiety of not being able to see who was around and who to trust was this slow, beautiful build up.
May 26, 2019
Good read
From reading the first book in the series, I wasn' sure about the Ryan and Cole connection. Boy was I proven wrong. I was rooting for them, even knowing that trouble was swirling all around Cole. I liked how it all played out.
From reading the first book in the series, I wasn' sure about the Ryan and Cole connection. Boy was I proven wrong. I was rooting for them, even knowing that trouble was swirling all around Cole. I liked how it all played out.
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