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Beautiful Boxers #1
Knock Out
Brodie King has only one goal - doing whatever it takes to become a pro boxer. The last thing he wants is to find his mind and body derailed by a luscious, shy librarian. Now all he can think about is coaxing her to come out of her shell and how he's going to make her his.
Humiliated by the only man she ever let into her bed, Tabitha Simms took the job in Walton, MA, determined to play it safe and accept her life as a lonely, quiet librarian. She doesn't count on Brodie, a tattooed, possessive boxer interrupting her life and bringing out a side of her she never knew.
Knock Out is a sweet, steamy romance and is the first short read in the Beautiful Boxers Series. If you love possessive, alpha men, curvy women, hot love scenes, and instalove all wrapped up in a sweet, sexy story then grab a glass of wine and curl up in your favorite spot, because this one is for you
Humiliated by the only man she ever let into her bed, Tabitha Simms took the job in Walton, MA, determined to play it safe and accept her life as a lonely, quiet librarian. She doesn't count on Brodie, a tattooed, possessive boxer interrupting her life and bringing out a side of her she never knew.
Knock Out is a sweet, steamy romance and is the first short read in the Beautiful Boxers Series. If you love possessive, alpha men, curvy women, hot love scenes, and instalove all wrapped up in a sweet, sexy story then grab a glass of wine and curl up in your favorite spot, because this one is for you
55 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 25, 2020
398 people are currently reading
315 people want to read
About the author
Willow James
3 books10 followersFor readers seeking sexy romance filled with possessive men, curvy women, and a guaranteed happily ever after, Willow James delivers. If you want to escape with hot, steamy romance novels or novellas that deliver yummy vibes and oodles delight, Willow's work may be just what your psyche ordered.
Willow loves reading books that help balance the hard things in life, bringing laughter, smiles, joy and hope. And, of course, happy endings are not optional!
She devours books by Shannon Stacey and and Angus, Thongs and Full-Frontal Snogging. Books to make her laugh and indulge her romantic and forever optimistic spirit. She aspires to provide some of the same joy and pleasure those authors and books deliver every day.
Living in upstate New York, Willow loves spending time with her wheaten terrier pup, being in nature, and finding the miraculous in the mundane.
To stay up to date on new releases, giveaways and happy, uplifting posts, copy and paste this link to a new window and sign up for Willow's Newsletter.
Willow loves reading books that help balance the hard things in life, bringing laughter, smiles, joy and hope. And, of course, happy endings are not optional!
She devours books by Shannon Stacey and and Angus, Thongs and Full-Frontal Snogging. Books to make her laugh and indulge her romantic and forever optimistic spirit. She aspires to provide some of the same joy and pleasure those authors and books deliver every day.
Living in upstate New York, Willow loves spending time with her wheaten terrier pup, being in nature, and finding the miraculous in the mundane.
To stay up to date on new releases, giveaways and happy, uplifting posts, copy and paste this link to a new window and sign up for Willow's Newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
August 27, 2020
This book was exactly what I expected and wanted when I read the blurb for it. It’s a sweet novella with a charming librarian heroine and a sexy tattooed boxer hero.
Both Tabitha and Brodie were likable and from the little time we got to know them they were very relatable. Obviously, with the length of the book it was very much instalove but it was cute and flowed well and I really enjoyed it.
This was exactly what I needed after an angsty read just to enjoy and get lost in for thirty minutes.
Both Tabitha and Brodie were likable and from the little time we got to know them they were very relatable. Obviously, with the length of the book it was very much instalove but it was cute and flowed well and I really enjoyed it.
This was exactly what I needed after an angsty read just to enjoy and get lost in for thirty minutes.
October 3, 2020
For a novella, I greatly enjoyed it! The conversations and thought processes among the characters were smooth and easy to follow. I never had to reread sections to determine what was going on. The descriptions of the settings, characters, and surroundings were just the right among to ensure that the readers got an image in their mind rather than not being enough to form a well rounded picture.
The only thing I might have added was having a scene where Tabby told Brodie about her horrible experience in the past with relationships. We could have been witness to an extremely sweet Brodie that would have reenforced his dedication and devotion to Tabitha.
I voluntarily received and read this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The only thing I might have added was having a scene where Tabby told Brodie about her horrible experience in the past with relationships. We could have been witness to an extremely sweet Brodie that would have reenforced his dedication and devotion to Tabitha.
I voluntarily received and read this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 21, 2020
Oh wow... This was a really short story, but a really enjoyable one 😊
Tabitha just started working at the library as the new librarian. Brodie is also working at the library doing some renovations. And the two of them just can't stop checking each other out. Until Brodie asks out Tabitha. Tabitha doesn't know if his asking her out because he wants to just have sex with her. After a bad experience with a guy before she's hesitant to accept his invite. But when he rescues his cat she takes the chance. Will he change her mind about men or will he be another disappointment.
Quick, easy, fun and sometimes awkward, but definitely a sweet, sexy hot read you will finish in one go ❤ 😊
Read on behalf of
Fay's Corner
Tabitha just started working at the library as the new librarian. Brodie is also working at the library doing some renovations. And the two of them just can't stop checking each other out. Until Brodie asks out Tabitha. Tabitha doesn't know if his asking her out because he wants to just have sex with her. After a bad experience with a guy before she's hesitant to accept his invite. But when he rescues his cat she takes the chance. Will he change her mind about men or will he be another disappointment.
Quick, easy, fun and sometimes awkward, but definitely a sweet, sexy hot read you will finish in one go ❤ 😊
Read on behalf of
Fay's Corner
December 10, 2020
The synopsis of this book is what made me want to read it. A steamy romance between a sweet librarian and an alpha man boxer.
It's safe to say that I was pretty disappointed when I read it. The characters don't really have any depth, their relationship development was uninteresting and boring. I know this is only a 55 page book but it could've been so much better.
We don't know anything about Tabitha and Brodie other than the fact that she's an insecure, shy librarian and he's a wannabe pro boxer. Everything about this book screams cliché. If 2014 me would've read this on Wattpad she probably would've given it 5 stars, that's how cringe it is.
It took me so much longer to finish these 55 pages than it usually takes me to read a 200 pages book. Knock Out wasn't for me. The only ok part about this novel are the steamy scenes but I couldn't even enjoy those because of all the things I didn't like.
It's safe to say that I was pretty disappointed when I read it. The characters don't really have any depth, their relationship development was uninteresting and boring. I know this is only a 55 page book but it could've been so much better.
We don't know anything about Tabitha and Brodie other than the fact that she's an insecure, shy librarian and he's a wannabe pro boxer. Everything about this book screams cliché. If 2014 me would've read this on Wattpad she probably would've given it 5 stars, that's how cringe it is.
It took me so much longer to finish these 55 pages than it usually takes me to read a 200 pages book. Knock Out wasn't for me. The only ok part about this novel are the steamy scenes but I couldn't even enjoy those because of all the things I didn't like.
September 16, 2020
Thanks to Willow James and NetGalley to provide me this book as an e-arc. Really enjoyed reading this.
The book is about a muscular boxer and a curvy young woman. You know it's going to be a nice smutty book just by the short description of the main characters. It's a short story, I've read it within an hour. And it's really very sexy and smutty, just what you want when you read a book like this.
There is not a lot of character development, but you can't expact that to happen within less than 60 pages. I personally prefer to have stories like this be drawn out longer and have more character development, but I'm not complaining. It's a fun, fast and hot read, just like we like it.
The book is about a muscular boxer and a curvy young woman. You know it's going to be a nice smutty book just by the short description of the main characters. It's a short story, I've read it within an hour. And it's really very sexy and smutty, just what you want when you read a book like this.
There is not a lot of character development, but you can't expact that to happen within less than 60 pages. I personally prefer to have stories like this be drawn out longer and have more character development, but I'm not complaining. It's a fun, fast and hot read, just like we like it.
July 12, 2023
A tale of the curvy girl and the boxer.
It was a cute little read. Nothing earth altering or unexpected. I liked Brodie but both characters came off as pretty… milk-toast. Nothing super special about either of them.
The thing I didn’t like was that it was in third person and it said their names… a lot. To the point it was annoying.
It was a cute little read. Nothing earth altering or unexpected. I liked Brodie but both characters came off as pretty… milk-toast. Nothing super special about either of them.
The thing I didn’t like was that it was in third person and it said their names… a lot. To the point it was annoying.
September 8, 2020
* This was sent to me in exchange for an honest review via NetGalley*
This was a super sweet and quick romance that just lifts your mood. Definitely 18+ in some places but it's tasteful and balances out the adorableness of the budding relationship. The book's description describes it as insta-love and while it has elements of that I am much more inclined to describe it as insta-lust. For such a short novel (Only 55 pages) the characters were very likeable and relatively well developed. Max was my favourite character - I mean who doesn't love a kitten, but a kitten who actively tries to get you the hot guy... where can I get myself a Max! I would have liked to have a bit more of Colin and seen more of Brodie's jealousy. I also would have really liked it if Greg had been at the Boxing to cause some more tension and drama for the conclusion of the story. Other than that it was a really nice lighthearted romance to cheer you up when you need a quick pick-me-up.
This was a super sweet and quick romance that just lifts your mood. Definitely 18+ in some places but it's tasteful and balances out the adorableness of the budding relationship. The book's description describes it as insta-love and while it has elements of that I am much more inclined to describe it as insta-lust. For such a short novel (Only 55 pages) the characters were very likeable and relatively well developed. Max was my favourite character - I mean who doesn't love a kitten, but a kitten who actively tries to get you the hot guy... where can I get myself a Max! I would have liked to have a bit more of Colin and seen more of Brodie's jealousy. I also would have really liked it if Greg had been at the Boxing to cause some more tension and drama for the conclusion of the story. Other than that it was a really nice lighthearted romance to cheer you up when you need a quick pick-me-up.
August 26, 2020
4 Stars!
Willow James has got a brand new series and y'all, I was here for it. Knock Out is the first book in her Beautiful Boxers Series and what a hot little jam-packed read. Tabitha and Brodie lit up my kindle from the moment they met and didn't stop until the very last word. Sexy, swoony, steamy... you don't want to miss out on this fast-paced, standalone romance.
This might have been my first Willow James book but I can guarantee it won't be my last, especially when it comes to her beautiful, alpha boxers and the women who fall hard and fast for them.
I recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
Willow James has got a brand new series and y'all, I was here for it. Knock Out is the first book in her Beautiful Boxers Series and what a hot little jam-packed read. Tabitha and Brodie lit up my kindle from the moment they met and didn't stop until the very last word. Sexy, swoony, steamy... you don't want to miss out on this fast-paced, standalone romance.
This might have been my first Willow James book but I can guarantee it won't be my last, especially when it comes to her beautiful, alpha boxers and the women who fall hard and fast for them.
I recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
September 28, 2020
A decent short story about a shy librarian and aspiring boxer who meet when he comes to her library to do some construction work, and have an instant connection.
It's pretty much what you'd expect from a 55 page story - not much character development and very insta-lovey, which is why is tend to prefer full length novels. It wasn't bad for what it was, though, and I had a good time reading it. I think the author has great potential and should they decide to write longer stories, I'd be very much interested in picking them up.
Massive thank you to Netgalley and the author for the review copy!
It's pretty much what you'd expect from a 55 page story - not much character development and very insta-lovey, which is why is tend to prefer full length novels. It wasn't bad for what it was, though, and I had a good time reading it. I think the author has great potential and should they decide to write longer stories, I'd be very much interested in picking them up.
Massive thank you to Netgalley and the author for the review copy!
August 25, 2020
I really enjoyed this authors debut story! I don’t typically like sports romance books but this short story ticked all of my buttons and it didn’t emphasize the boxing aspect of the story. There is an immediate connection between Brodie and Tabitha, the sexy, curvy and slightly awkwardlibrarian. Max the kitten plays matchmaker in this fun loving short story. I can’t wait for this authors follow up story!!
October 2, 2020
3 1/2 stars
This novella was a quick read that packed a "punch" - - no pun intended.
I think it's typically hard to connect the reader to characters in a short novella. However, the author did a fair job of it with this story. Brodie and Tabitha were both very likable characters and made a wonderful couple. Brodie was the perfect alpha male to calm Tabitha's insecurities.
Knock Out offered a quick escape from real life. The reader is able to journey into the world of a sexy, curvy (albeit insecure) librarian and the hunky man working on construction in her building. It's a cute and fun story. It was a nice palate cleanser in between other more intense books.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. The opinions contained within this review are entirely my own.
This novella was a quick read that packed a "punch" - - no pun intended.
I think it's typically hard to connect the reader to characters in a short novella. However, the author did a fair job of it with this story. Brodie and Tabitha were both very likable characters and made a wonderful couple. Brodie was the perfect alpha male to calm Tabitha's insecurities.
Knock Out offered a quick escape from real life. The reader is able to journey into the world of a sexy, curvy (albeit insecure) librarian and the hunky man working on construction in her building. It's a cute and fun story. It was a nice palate cleanser in between other more intense books.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. The opinions contained within this review are entirely my own.
dnf
May 11, 2023DNF at 50%
Meh. Not feeling the connection.
5.10.23
Meh. Not feeling the connection.
5.10.23
August 15, 2021
Great story
This was sweet and sexy. I love a good short read that is well written. I'll be keeping an eye out for new releases from this author, for sure!
This was sweet and sexy. I love a good short read that is well written. I'll be keeping an eye out for new releases from this author, for sure!
April 5, 2021
Quick and pretty stereotypical steamy novella. Between 2-3 stars, but given that it's a debut work, I'm rounding up.
Brodie (H) is a boxer working construction as he waits for his debut fight. Tabitha (h) is a librarian who has serious self-esteem issues from her weight. Her library is currently having an expansion built, and her attention is quickly snagged by the muscular construction worker. But he couldn't be seriously asking her out. Could he?
It's a novella/longer short story. Less than 60 pages. There's only so much character development you can squeeze in. And that's all you get here. The characters are pretty flat to start with - Brodie is a very alpha boxer in training, and Tabitha is a very self-conscious, curvy librarian. And that's pretty much them through the whole thing. There's some development on Tabitha's part, but none really on Brodie's. But yeah, it's pretty much what you'd expect from a 60 page instalove novella.
Brodie was pretty good, for a pretty stereotypical lead. Tabitha, however, irritated me at times. Quite frequently, in fact. I get that she was badly burned by her only former relationship. But when she's simultaneously thinking that "people like her didn't have relationships, period" but also completely shutting off the idea that Brodie could like her? She was both pushing him away and blaming him for her pushing him away. And apparently no one that's not model pretty has any chance of being in a relationship?? Was there any sort of relationship she wouldn't have run from? Being timid is one thing. Being so close-minded, you're self-destructive is another.
Alternating 3rd person POV. No cheating, no love triangle, no OW/OM drama. Straightforward and fairly stereotypical 'steamy alpha athlete, shy curvy woman instalove romance novella.' But sometimes that's what you're looking for. This one's a pretty good read, with HEA and brief look down the road (you get more of their down-the-road in subsequent books). No cliffhangers.
Would I read more in the series? By this author? Yes. Though on the stereotypical end, it was well written, especially for a debut indie author. It will be interesting to see how she improves with experience.
Brodie (H) is a boxer working construction as he waits for his debut fight. Tabitha (h) is a librarian who has serious self-esteem issues from her weight. Her library is currently having an expansion built, and her attention is quickly snagged by the muscular construction worker. But he couldn't be seriously asking her out. Could he?
It's a novella/longer short story. Less than 60 pages. There's only so much character development you can squeeze in. And that's all you get here. The characters are pretty flat to start with - Brodie is a very alpha boxer in training, and Tabitha is a very self-conscious, curvy librarian. And that's pretty much them through the whole thing. There's some development on Tabitha's part, but none really on Brodie's. But yeah, it's pretty much what you'd expect from a 60 page instalove novella.
Brodie was pretty good, for a pretty stereotypical lead. Tabitha, however, irritated me at times. Quite frequently, in fact. I get that she was badly burned by her only former relationship. But when she's simultaneously thinking that "people like her didn't have relationships, period" but also completely shutting off the idea that Brodie could like her? She was both pushing him away and blaming him for her pushing him away. And apparently no one that's not model pretty has any chance of being in a relationship?? Was there any sort of relationship she wouldn't have run from? Being timid is one thing. Being so close-minded, you're self-destructive is another.
Alternating 3rd person POV. No cheating, no love triangle, no OW/OM drama. Straightforward and fairly stereotypical 'steamy alpha athlete, shy curvy woman instalove romance novella.' But sometimes that's what you're looking for. This one's a pretty good read, with HEA and brief look down the road (you get more of their down-the-road in subsequent books). No cliffhangers.
Would I read more in the series? By this author? Yes. Though on the stereotypical end, it was well written, especially for a debut indie author. It will be interesting to see how she improves with experience.
July 6, 2024
My Rating: ★★★☆☆
Knock Out by Willow James, published on August 25, 2020, independently, is a well-written and spicy introduction to the Beautiful Boxers series that delves into themes of personal growth, trust, and passionate romance.
The story centers on Brodie King, an aspiring professional boxer whose only focus is his career, until he meets Tabitha Simms, a shy librarian with a painful past. Determined to coax her out of her shell and make her his, Brodie's single-minded pursuit is both tender and intense. Tabitha, on the other hand, is rebuilding her life after a humiliating experience with a previous partner. Her new job in Walton, MA, represents a fresh start, but she doesn’t anticipate Brodie’s entrance into her life, disrupting her quiet existence and awakening a side of herself she never knew.
James's writing is engaging and vivid, capturing the chemistry and tension between Brodie and Tabitha effectively. The characters are well-developed, with Brodie's possessive yet caring nature and Tabitha's transformation from a timid librarian to a more confident woman being particularly notable. The narrative flows smoothly, making it an enjoyable read for those who appreciate the genre.
The romance is both sweet and steamy, with explicit love scenes that are tastefully executed. The dynamics between Brodie and Tabitha are compelling, although the plot follows a somewhat predictable path, typical of romance novels. While the main characters are richly developed, some secondary characters lack depth, which could have added more layers to the story.
Themes:
- Personal Growth: Both Brodie and Tabitha undergo significant development, with Brodie balancing his career ambitions and emotional needs, and Tabitha discovering her inner strength and confidence.
- Trust and Healing: Tabitha's journey from past trauma to learning to trust again is a central theme, with Brodie's determination playing a crucial role.
I want to extend my thanks to Willow James for creating this engaging book. "Knock Out" offers a captivating start to the Beautiful Boxers series and is perfect for readers who enjoy steamy romance with strong, possessive male leads and shy yet resilient heroines. Despite its predictability, the novel’s character dynamics and engaging writing make it a worthwhile read.
In conclusion, Knock Out is a sweet and sexy story that delivers on its promise, earning a solid three-star rating. It explores themes of personal growth, trust, and passionate romance, making it a recommended read for fans of the genre. If you're looking for a quick, spicy romance, this book is an excellent choice.
Knock Out by Willow James, published on August 25, 2020, independently, is a well-written and spicy introduction to the Beautiful Boxers series that delves into themes of personal growth, trust, and passionate romance.
The story centers on Brodie King, an aspiring professional boxer whose only focus is his career, until he meets Tabitha Simms, a shy librarian with a painful past. Determined to coax her out of her shell and make her his, Brodie's single-minded pursuit is both tender and intense. Tabitha, on the other hand, is rebuilding her life after a humiliating experience with a previous partner. Her new job in Walton, MA, represents a fresh start, but she doesn’t anticipate Brodie’s entrance into her life, disrupting her quiet existence and awakening a side of herself she never knew.
James's writing is engaging and vivid, capturing the chemistry and tension between Brodie and Tabitha effectively. The characters are well-developed, with Brodie's possessive yet caring nature and Tabitha's transformation from a timid librarian to a more confident woman being particularly notable. The narrative flows smoothly, making it an enjoyable read for those who appreciate the genre.
The romance is both sweet and steamy, with explicit love scenes that are tastefully executed. The dynamics between Brodie and Tabitha are compelling, although the plot follows a somewhat predictable path, typical of romance novels. While the main characters are richly developed, some secondary characters lack depth, which could have added more layers to the story.
Themes:
- Personal Growth: Both Brodie and Tabitha undergo significant development, with Brodie balancing his career ambitions and emotional needs, and Tabitha discovering her inner strength and confidence.
- Trust and Healing: Tabitha's journey from past trauma to learning to trust again is a central theme, with Brodie's determination playing a crucial role.
I want to extend my thanks to Willow James for creating this engaging book. "Knock Out" offers a captivating start to the Beautiful Boxers series and is perfect for readers who enjoy steamy romance with strong, possessive male leads and shy yet resilient heroines. Despite its predictability, the novel’s character dynamics and engaging writing make it a worthwhile read.
In conclusion, Knock Out is a sweet and sexy story that delivers on its promise, earning a solid three-star rating. It explores themes of personal growth, trust, and passionate romance, making it a recommended read for fans of the genre. If you're looking for a quick, spicy romance, this book is an excellent choice.
September 11, 2020
review originally posted on ROMANCE JUNKIE BOOK BLOG
One of the things I take into consideration when I read a romance novel is the characters. A story plot or trope might be something that has been written before but the characters and how the author gave them life are always unique in every book.
Brodie King and Tabitha Simms were an interesting pairing. Brodie was a confident and extremely handsome boxer while Tabitha was a shy librarian. The story starts with the two of them already interacting and I like that. Personally, I enjoy stories where the main characters are always together.
I think it was probably because Knock Out is a novella that was why every scene was straight-forward and written to keep the story moving. I enjoyed the development of Brodie and Tabitha’s relationship from just looking at each other for one week to finally going out to get to know each other more.
The conflict was expected. I knew the issue will be Tabitha’s low self-esteem because of a painful experienced she had with her last lover. Thankfully, Tabitha finally had the courage to give her relationship with Brodie a try. The ending where they finally resolved the conflict was satisfying.
One of the things I take into consideration when I read a romance novel is the characters. A story plot or trope might be something that has been written before but the characters and how the author gave them life are always unique in every book.
Brodie King and Tabitha Simms were an interesting pairing. Brodie was a confident and extremely handsome boxer while Tabitha was a shy librarian. The story starts with the two of them already interacting and I like that. Personally, I enjoy stories where the main characters are always together.
I think it was probably because Knock Out is a novella that was why every scene was straight-forward and written to keep the story moving. I enjoyed the development of Brodie and Tabitha’s relationship from just looking at each other for one week to finally going out to get to know each other more.
The conflict was expected. I knew the issue will be Tabitha’s low self-esteem because of a painful experienced she had with her last lover. Thankfully, Tabitha finally had the courage to give her relationship with Brodie a try. The ending where they finally resolved the conflict was satisfying.
September 29, 2020
Tabatha is a librarian who has curves and her friend says rocks in a dress, but because of a guy she dated in college has low self-esteem. So now living in a new town taking the job as a librarian she is just hoping to get through each day without being noticed.
Works for her until a remodel at the library and she meets one of the construction workers by the name of Brodie, who also is working his way through the boxing ranks. He sees and thinks she is a knockout. After asking her out for a date and being turned down he gets another chance when her cat gets stuck in a pipe. After the rescue, he is able to take her out.
Their night is good, great really for both the problem for him is she is nowhere to be found when he wakes in the morning. Now wanting to be with her he must really step out of his comfort zone and hope she shows for his fight. Tabitha felt bad for leaving but felt she had to do it, but later in the day she realizes she must face one of her fears and go to his boxing match, this is really where the story becomes a true love story. A wonderful story with good characters and is also a quick read. Very much worth your time. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 4 stars Follow us at
www.1rad-readerreviews.com
Works for her until a remodel at the library and she meets one of the construction workers by the name of Brodie, who also is working his way through the boxing ranks. He sees and thinks she is a knockout. After asking her out for a date and being turned down he gets another chance when her cat gets stuck in a pipe. After the rescue, he is able to take her out.
Their night is good, great really for both the problem for him is she is nowhere to be found when he wakes in the morning. Now wanting to be with her he must really step out of his comfort zone and hope she shows for his fight. Tabitha felt bad for leaving but felt she had to do it, but later in the day she realizes she must face one of her fears and go to his boxing match, this is really where the story becomes a true love story. A wonderful story with good characters and is also a quick read. Very much worth your time. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 4 stars Follow us at
www.1rad-readerreviews.com
August 25, 2020
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Tabitha loves her job. Brodie’s second job isn’t his passion. But it’s that job that sets things in motion.
The author was very smart in making this book a short read. She didn’t cut any corners. I didn’t feel as if anything was rushed. Everything made sense. You could picture everything as it played out. The only is, I was left wanting more.
That is just one way to show how smart our author is. She got me hooked with two people you almost couldn’t picture having an attraction. But she showed that anything was possible if the chemistry was right. Well she had that chemistry and now I just want to know when I can expect book two.
If you like your stories short because you have a limited amount of time to get your romance fix, then this may be a good choice. Just make sure you like a hot man with tattoos, a woman who’s a little gun-shy, and a couple who create plenty of steam heat. By the end you just may want to get your hands-on book two as well.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Tabitha loves her job. Brodie’s second job isn’t his passion. But it’s that job that sets things in motion.
The author was very smart in making this book a short read. She didn’t cut any corners. I didn’t feel as if anything was rushed. Everything made sense. You could picture everything as it played out. The only is, I was left wanting more.
That is just one way to show how smart our author is. She got me hooked with two people you almost couldn’t picture having an attraction. But she showed that anything was possible if the chemistry was right. Well she had that chemistry and now I just want to know when I can expect book two.
If you like your stories short because you have a limited amount of time to get your romance fix, then this may be a good choice. Just make sure you like a hot man with tattoos, a woman who’s a little gun-shy, and a couple who create plenty of steam heat. By the end you just may want to get your hands-on book two as well.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
September 21, 2020
I really liked this short story. It reminded me a lot of Christa Wick's curvy girl stories - which isn't a bad thing at all! Tabitha is a curvy, shy, beautiful, librarian and new cat owner. She's been burned by a past "relationship" with a real jerk. Brodie is a boxer - who is doing construction work while he tries to go pro in the boxing world. Brodie is very attracted to Tabitha - but Tabitha has a hard time believing he is really interested in her. Brodie is definitely one of the good ones. He is focused, sweet, and is very much in to Tabitha.
Because this is a short story - a lot of things happen in a very short period of time. Including declarations of love, sex, and dealing with anxieties. I would have enjoyed reading a longer version of this story with those issues fleshed out more - but somehow even in this short format - it still worked!
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are my own.
Because this is a short story - a lot of things happen in a very short period of time. Including declarations of love, sex, and dealing with anxieties. I would have enjoyed reading a longer version of this story with those issues fleshed out more - but somehow even in this short format - it still worked!
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are my own.
August 24, 2020
I had a great time reading this book, its a fun, flirty, sweet, awkward at times romance between Tabitha, a shy librarian and Brodie the hot, sexy muscled contractor/boxer. Brodie is instantly smitten with Tabitha and after a week he build up the courage to ask her out when he sees Max, the fur-ball of cuteness and destruction. All goes well until he tells her she turns him on and all her insecurities kick in and she declines. Only after matchmaker Max strikes again and Brodie rescues him does she agree to go out. Even though it’s a quick read the author still manages to portray the characters feelings and emotions making the characters very realistic and lovable. I loved this book can't wait to read more by this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 25, 2020
4.5 stars
To say Knock Out was instalove would be about one syllable too long, it's really just insta! This is like "love in a microwave" fast but if you're into instalove and novellas, there's plenty to love about this book.
Curvy, sweet and innocent Tabitha has just begun working at the library and relishes a world where she can be herself. After a bad experience with a jackass who only cared about getting laid, then breaking down women's confidence afterwards, she has difficulty trusting men. Especially super hot guys like Brodie. But Brodie is willing to put in the work to win the shy librarian over and what happens next belongs in the adult section of her beloved library. Great read by a new to me author; hopefully her next book will be a bit longer for us!
AnnMarie - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
To say Knock Out was instalove would be about one syllable too long, it's really just insta! This is like "love in a microwave" fast but if you're into instalove and novellas, there's plenty to love about this book.
Curvy, sweet and innocent Tabitha has just begun working at the library and relishes a world where she can be herself. After a bad experience with a jackass who only cared about getting laid, then breaking down women's confidence afterwards, she has difficulty trusting men. Especially super hot guys like Brodie. But Brodie is willing to put in the work to win the shy librarian over and what happens next belongs in the adult section of her beloved library. Great read by a new to me author; hopefully her next book will be a bit longer for us!
AnnMarie - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
September 19, 2020
This book is exactly as it’s described, an instalove romance novella. The MC’s get right together and the author doesn’t dice words with the romance and gets right to work.
Both Brodie and Tabitha are cute and the cat was a great catalyst for them. There were a few small things that threw me out of the story. One was was with the use of “2X4” instead of writing out “two by four” and another was anytime Tabitha was constantly described with a “flush on creamy skin”.
I started this book right before bed and before I knew, I finished it. Overall, it was a smooth quick read which was perfect. With all the feels, I was left thinking how sweet and cute Tabitha and Brodie were. It was a perfect pick-me-up and a quick read I never knew I needed. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the book in exchange for a review.
Both Brodie and Tabitha are cute and the cat was a great catalyst for them. There were a few small things that threw me out of the story. One was was with the use of “2X4” instead of writing out “two by four” and another was anytime Tabitha was constantly described with a “flush on creamy skin”.
I started this book right before bed and before I knew, I finished it. Overall, it was a smooth quick read which was perfect. With all the feels, I was left thinking how sweet and cute Tabitha and Brodie were. It was a perfect pick-me-up and a quick read I never knew I needed. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the book in exchange for a review.
September 22, 2020
This was sent to me in exchange for an honest review via NetGalley
Talk about insta love. The introduction of this book held nothing back, within the first sentence of the book the reader is thrown into the world of Tabitha and Brodie. While this book is a great fast read, and I mean fast, there are a couple things that I would keep in mind before you buy this book (although its only 99 cents so what do you really have to lose) the MCs in this story hold nothing back, the insta love is almost unbelievable, and that's saying something as you always have to take insta love with a grain of reality. While I really enjoyed this read I feel that the author could have added a lot more detail to the scenes and backgrounds of the MCs, there were parts of the story that just felt lacking.
If you enjoy fast paced insta love stories with a smidge of alpha male then this is the book for you.
Talk about insta love. The introduction of this book held nothing back, within the first sentence of the book the reader is thrown into the world of Tabitha and Brodie. While this book is a great fast read, and I mean fast, there are a couple things that I would keep in mind before you buy this book (although its only 99 cents so what do you really have to lose) the MCs in this story hold nothing back, the insta love is almost unbelievable, and that's saying something as you always have to take insta love with a grain of reality. While I really enjoyed this read I feel that the author could have added a lot more detail to the scenes and backgrounds of the MCs, there were parts of the story that just felt lacking.
If you enjoy fast paced insta love stories with a smidge of alpha male then this is the book for you.
September 29, 2020
When it says in the blurb that this is a short story, please take it to heart. At the end of it, it says this was a novella, but I’m not sure it qualifies as a novella. It took me close to, but not quite a full hour to read this back to back. It starts off strong, and the characters are likable. If short super stories are you’re jam, jump on it because you’ll love it. But, probably because of the length of it, I didn’t have time to connect to what the heck was happening there. The writer is really good with words, and I think she’s have a really good chance to turn this into a full novel if she put her mind to it. It definitely kept me engaged and wanting more, but I felt like, at the same time, I didn’t get enough. Also, the whole boxer thing in the title of the series is a little misleading, as it was only a bleep on the radar as far as the story went.
August 15, 2020
This is a completely new to me author, and as far as I can tell, this is her first published work. It's not a long book, but still manages to be a complete story. I have to say, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this story, and how real the characters seemed to be. Both Brodie and Tabitha were delightfully awkward at some points, but they are also perfectly amazing together. There was an immediate connection between them, which I love, and a smoldering heat between them that almost melted my kindle!
Honest opinion, this was a fun story. Not as long as what I usually read, but a great introduction to a new author. I truly enjoyed the story, which was hot, but still had a sweet innocence to it. I am looking forward to seeing what this author comes up with next!
Honest opinion, this was a fun story. Not as long as what I usually read, but a great introduction to a new author. I truly enjoyed the story, which was hot, but still had a sweet innocence to it. I am looking forward to seeing what this author comes up with next!
August 24, 2020
To say Knock Out was instalove would be about one syllable too long, it's really just insta! This is like "love in a microwave" fast but if you're into instalove and novellas, there's plenty to love about this book.
Curvy, sweet and innocent Tabitha has just begun working at the library and relishes a world where she can be herself. After a bad experience with a jackass who only cared about getting laid, then breaking down women's confidence afterwards, she has difficulty trusting men. Especially super hot guys like Brodie. But Brodie is willing to put in the work to win the shy librarian over and what happens next belongs in the adult section of her beloved library. Great read by a new to me author; hopefully her next book will be a bit longer for us!
Curvy, sweet and innocent Tabitha has just begun working at the library and relishes a world where she can be herself. After a bad experience with a jackass who only cared about getting laid, then breaking down women's confidence afterwards, she has difficulty trusting men. Especially super hot guys like Brodie. But Brodie is willing to put in the work to win the shy librarian over and what happens next belongs in the adult section of her beloved library. Great read by a new to me author; hopefully her next book will be a bit longer for us!
August 14, 2020
Knock Out was my first read by Willow James and it will not be my last. I’m a huge fan of InstaLove novella reads and this book is exactly that.
Tabatha and Brodie are adorable. She’s a sweet, curvy, librarian with a soft spot for cats. He’s working construction while waiting for his big break in the ring.
They meet at the library and Brodie is smitten. More than anything he wants to make her his. Tabatha is hesitant to start anything with the sexy man but is forced to accept a date with him after he saves her kitty.
They fall hard, they fall fast. Their happily ever after is deliciously sweet. Knock Out is a perfect sunny afternoon read, TBR and Enjoy!
Tabatha and Brodie are adorable. She’s a sweet, curvy, librarian with a soft spot for cats. He’s working construction while waiting for his big break in the ring.
They meet at the library and Brodie is smitten. More than anything he wants to make her his. Tabatha is hesitant to start anything with the sexy man but is forced to accept a date with him after he saves her kitty.
They fall hard, they fall fast. Their happily ever after is deliciously sweet. Knock Out is a perfect sunny afternoon read, TBR and Enjoy!
August 31, 2020
A Librarian and a Fighter...
I loved Willow's 1st book, she did great as a brand new author, I'm super impressed.
I love that this story involved a sweet and innocent librarian and a construction worker...or wait was she maybe not so sweet and innocent and was he maybe a up and coming fighter?!? Hmm, how clever of Willow to keep us on our toes.
I loved Tabitha's real life issues, concerns over her curvy body and panic problems with crowds. Things that so many readers can relate to.
The heat in this book was off the charts! I was fanning my self a few times along the way.
I loved Willow's 1st book, she did great as a brand new author, I'm super impressed.
I love that this story involved a sweet and innocent librarian and a construction worker...or wait was she maybe not so sweet and innocent and was he maybe a up and coming fighter?!? Hmm, how clever of Willow to keep us on our toes.
I loved Tabitha's real life issues, concerns over her curvy body and panic problems with crowds. Things that so many readers can relate to.
The heat in this book was off the charts! I was fanning my self a few times along the way.
October 29, 2020
I Was Provided A Copy Of This Book From @netgalley. I Requested It As I Have Seen So Many Other Bookstagram Accounts Posting Reviews On ‘Romance’ Books, I Thought I Would Give Them A Go As A Change To My Usual!
This Is A Hot And Steamy Short Story, I Literally Read It In On Go Because I Was Desperate To Know If The Girl Got The Boy! Brodie Is Every Woman’s Fantasy Bad Boy, All Tattoos Stubble And A Nice Body! It’s A Feel Good Book, As Long As You Don’t Shy Away From A Bit Of Sex Then You Will Enjoy It 😉
I Definitely Will Read More Books From This Author / Genre - They Are Quick Easy To Read And Make A Change!
This Is A Hot And Steamy Short Story, I Literally Read It In On Go Because I Was Desperate To Know If The Girl Got The Boy! Brodie Is Every Woman’s Fantasy Bad Boy, All Tattoos Stubble And A Nice Body! It’s A Feel Good Book, As Long As You Don’t Shy Away From A Bit Of Sex Then You Will Enjoy It 😉
I Definitely Will Read More Books From This Author / Genre - They Are Quick Easy To Read And Make A Change!
November 11, 2020
This is a great novella instalove romance book. Brodie is a pro boxer that does construction work on the side and Tabitha is a smart librarian that is on the plus size. Tabitha has had a bad experience with romance in the past because of her size and so when Brodie showed interest in her she had to learn to believe in herself. I really liked the storyline and would have liked more interaction with Brodie and Tabitha about her past experience but it still was fun reading how they get together.
Also I really loved Tabitha's best friend Collin and it would have been great to see more interaction with that character. Otherwise I would love a romance story with Collin as the main character and his love story.
Also I really loved Tabitha's best friend Collin and it would have been great to see more interaction with that character. Otherwise I would love a romance story with Collin as the main character and his love story.
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