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Warlord #1
Ryder: Shadows & Desires
"I'd say I could show you what being choked out feels like, but not sure we'd be talking about the same thing," he effortlessly adds. ¤ ¤ ¤ Sports therapist Julie Stevens reconsiders her taste in men when a brooding, legendary MMA fighter walks into her small-town gym. The fighter needs a team to prepare him for the brutal, winner-takes-all Warlord tournament. Meeting him in person, she learns that he’s crass, difficult, and even hostile... but she can’t turn him away, as this is the break that the gym needs.
Not only does she have to deal with the fact that Ryder was her celebrity crush for many years, but she also can’t catch a break with the grumpy fighter. Every encounter seems to go wrong... and then, one day, it doesn’t. Ryder’s walls peel back, piece by piece, until the complicated warrior reveals a man who loves hard and unequivocally. Once he wants something, he'll fight for it.
Including her.
But that may risk Julie losing the gym that she holds up in her brother’s honor. And what will she think when secrets are dragged out of Ryder’s shadows that he’d much rather keep hidden?
This is a DUOLOGY that follows the characters right where they left off in Book 2. While this series is very charged with tension and has a lot of steamy scenes, it's also a story of recovery, finding oneself, and perseverance... Friendly for all readers who enjoy a steamy, tension filled romance with drops of humor. Knowledge and/or interest in MMA not required.
Book 1 in the Warlord Series duology.
C O N T E N T W A R N I N
This series contains explicit sex scenes, characters who learn to live with grief, references to trauma, reactions to trauma, & vulgar language. This is a duology with a HEA, with a bonus anthology of their life after the story.
Not only does she have to deal with the fact that Ryder was her celebrity crush for many years, but she also can’t catch a break with the grumpy fighter. Every encounter seems to go wrong... and then, one day, it doesn’t. Ryder’s walls peel back, piece by piece, until the complicated warrior reveals a man who loves hard and unequivocally. Once he wants something, he'll fight for it.
Including her.
But that may risk Julie losing the gym that she holds up in her brother’s honor. And what will she think when secrets are dragged out of Ryder’s shadows that he’d much rather keep hidden?
This is a DUOLOGY that follows the characters right where they left off in Book 2. While this series is very charged with tension and has a lot of steamy scenes, it's also a story of recovery, finding oneself, and perseverance... Friendly for all readers who enjoy a steamy, tension filled romance with drops of humor. Knowledge and/or interest in MMA not required.
Book 1 in the Warlord Series duology.
C O N T E N T W A R N I N
This series contains explicit sex scenes, characters who learn to live with grief, references to trauma, reactions to trauma, & vulgar language. This is a duology with a HEA, with a bonus anthology of their life after the story.
369 pages, Paperback
Published December 18, 2022
59 people are currently reading
379 people want to read
About the author
Charlotte Mallory
8 books329 followersCharlotte Mallory has joined Amazon and their Kindle programs to share her love for Dark Fantasy Romance stories. What she enjoys most is taking well loved tropes and adding her own take on them. Right now, she greatly enjoys anything with Fantasy or Contemporary with an Alpha male lead, paired with a female lead that can absolutely handle her own!
In her spare time, she enjoys nature, bonsai trees, coffee, and taking random art classes.
In her spare time, she enjoys nature, bonsai trees, coffee, and taking random art classes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
February 6, 2023
✨𝐁ⱺⱺ𝗄 𝗋𝖾𝗏𝗂𝖾ω: 𝐑𝐲𝐝𝐞𝐫✨
By: ᴄʜᴀʀʟᴏᴛᴛᴇ ᴍᴀʟʟᴏʀʏ
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🥊 Badass FMC
🥊 Overcoming grief
🥊 Banter
🥊 FMC is not barely 18
🥊 Dual POV
🥊 Slow burn
🥊 Forced proximity
The writing was superb; the flow was so easy to follow. I couldn't put this book down!
The slow burn was perfectly paced and the amount of sex was just right.
The FMC is 29, and is mature and focused - which I loved. The drama was the right kind, not petty kid bullshit.
This book encompassed all of the things that I love and it was such an amazing book. This is a must read.
💪 Favorite quotes:
"I'd say I could show you what being choked out feels like, but not sure we'd be talking about the same thing."
"The point is, even if you want to settle, you should know there are two types of loneliness. One is while you’re in a relationship, and the other is when you’re at home, alone."
"Never feel guilty for prioritizing yourself."
➡️ Series info: book 1 of the Warlord Series
✨ Release date: March 3, 2023
🖤 This was an ARC provided by @cmalloryauthor and these thoughts are my own.
By: ᴄʜᴀʀʟᴏᴛᴛᴇ ᴍᴀʟʟᴏʀʏ
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🥊 Badass FMC
🥊 Overcoming grief
🥊 Banter
🥊 FMC is not barely 18
🥊 Dual POV
🥊 Slow burn
🥊 Forced proximity
The writing was superb; the flow was so easy to follow. I couldn't put this book down!
The slow burn was perfectly paced and the amount of sex was just right.
The FMC is 29, and is mature and focused - which I loved. The drama was the right kind, not petty kid bullshit.
This book encompassed all of the things that I love and it was such an amazing book. This is a must read.
💪 Favorite quotes:
"I'd say I could show you what being choked out feels like, but not sure we'd be talking about the same thing."
"The point is, even if you want to settle, you should know there are two types of loneliness. One is while you’re in a relationship, and the other is when you’re at home, alone."
"Never feel guilty for prioritizing yourself."
➡️ Series info: book 1 of the Warlord Series
✨ Release date: March 3, 2023
🖤 This was an ARC provided by @cmalloryauthor and these thoughts are my own.
February 2, 2023
IN DIRE NEED OF THE SEQUEL!!! This definitely feels like a set up for the sequel, and I'm here for it. I love when a story really explores the characters, and I think this duology will deliver that. No instalove here... But instant chemistry 😏
I'm really hoping to see more of the gym setting in the next book. It would have slowed down the pace in this one, but I never thought I would want more of the gym lol I can't wait to see how we dive into their stories in the next book. This feels like the first half of a bigger book, but it makes sense when I see it's already at 83,000 words.
And he better win Warlord 🥲
I'm really hoping to see more of the gym setting in the next book. It would have slowed down the pace in this one, but I never thought I would want more of the gym lol I can't wait to see how we dive into their stories in the next book. This feels like the first half of a bigger book, but it makes sense when I see it's already at 83,000 words.
And he better win Warlord 🥲
February 19, 2023
I had the opportunity to be an ARC reader through BookSirens for Charlotte Mallory's book Ryder. I will be honest, the name of the book drew my attention first and the synopsis sounded interesting. I was surprised that I read this as quickly as I did. I could not put the book down and when I did, I couldn't wait to pick it up again. The characters were fully developed along with the story line. I thought Mallory dealt with the issues presented with respect and sensitivity, while also showing different points of views. This book made me blush and giggle with the two main characters interactions with one another. And this book made me irritated because I could not stand one of the big baddies which is great because you just want to smack that character in the face. If you enjoy enemies to lovers, slow burn and angst then this is the book for you. I cannot wait for the second half of this series to come out. I'm very interested to see how everything unfolds in the end.
February 6, 2023
I can’t wait to read the next book! Loved this one and I’m so excited to see where the next book takes them! The way you can follow the thoughts of the MC and how they grow and interact… so good
February 2, 2023
Wow… I absolutely loved this book!
I’ve never watched, heard or read anything about MMA so a story so immersed in that world was completely foreign to me. Charlotte Mallory did an amazing job of weaving the main character’s stories while painting a vivid picture of a MMA/gym lifestyle.
Joey Ryder is the broody, beautiful and swoon worthy Ex/current MMA champion fighter with just enough mystery to make the readers want to know ALL his secrets. Beautiful, broken ex-gymnast/sports therapist Julie Stevens inherits the Rhino MMA gym from her brother Jeremy. Andrew Boyden is the coach at Rhino, although in Julie’s grief over her brother, she allows Andrew to take on the larger roll of management at the gym.
When Ryder decides to get back into fighting after a three year hiatus, that he will not discuss, his old trainer suggests Rhino. With Andrew as his coach and Julie as his sports therapist, Ryder begins to train for a grueling 7 month long tournament called, fittingly enough… Warlord.
I won’t give away spoilers, I hate that, but Ryder and Julie have amazing chemistry. I haven’t decided yet how I feel about Andrew? And Ryder’s ex-girlfriend Heather can get hit by a bus. Yep… that would work.
The only negative thing I can say about this book is that it’s a cliffhanger, not finished, up in the freaking air…. UGH! Yep… until June 3, 2023! How did I not know that when I received an advance review copy (for free)? I am leaving this review voluntarily 😂
I’ve never watched, heard or read anything about MMA so a story so immersed in that world was completely foreign to me. Charlotte Mallory did an amazing job of weaving the main character’s stories while painting a vivid picture of a MMA/gym lifestyle.
Joey Ryder is the broody, beautiful and swoon worthy Ex/current MMA champion fighter with just enough mystery to make the readers want to know ALL his secrets. Beautiful, broken ex-gymnast/sports therapist Julie Stevens inherits the Rhino MMA gym from her brother Jeremy. Andrew Boyden is the coach at Rhino, although in Julie’s grief over her brother, she allows Andrew to take on the larger roll of management at the gym.
When Ryder decides to get back into fighting after a three year hiatus, that he will not discuss, his old trainer suggests Rhino. With Andrew as his coach and Julie as his sports therapist, Ryder begins to train for a grueling 7 month long tournament called, fittingly enough… Warlord.
I won’t give away spoilers, I hate that, but Ryder and Julie have amazing chemistry. I haven’t decided yet how I feel about Andrew? And Ryder’s ex-girlfriend Heather can get hit by a bus. Yep… that would work.
The only negative thing I can say about this book is that it’s a cliffhanger, not finished, up in the freaking air…. UGH! Yep… until June 3, 2023! How did I not know that when I received an advance review copy (for free)? I am leaving this review voluntarily 😂
March 3, 2023
After that epilogue I’m SO ready to dive into book too 😩 (secretly hoping Julie decides to channel her emotions through training in the gym & finds herself beating the shit out of Heather 💥🥊😈)
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨4.5/5
🌶️🌶️/5
This was my first sports romance novel and as an ARC I was VERY impressed! The character development, their background stories, the banter, the slow build of their developing relationship. Joey is closed off to the world until he slowly gets to know Julie, maybe seeing a little bit of himself in her as she explains how she needs to see through her deceased brother’s dream for Rhino MMA. Julie is faced with so many challenges on top of the grief of losing her brother which she can’t seem to escape. She’s slowly learning to be okay with considering her own desires, thinking of herself and what SHE wants her future to hold.
I can’t wait to see how it plays out with Andrew— Joey definitely has control over the entire situation (this man hardly ever lets anyone control anything if he can help it.) I’m looking forward to seeing Julie conquering her fears and going for what she believes is best for herself and her future. Hopefully that means owning her brothers gym with Joey at her side, expanding with women MMA fighters signed to Rhino MMA!!!
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨4.5/5
🌶️🌶️/5
This was my first sports romance novel and as an ARC I was VERY impressed! The character development, their background stories, the banter, the slow build of their developing relationship. Joey is closed off to the world until he slowly gets to know Julie, maybe seeing a little bit of himself in her as she explains how she needs to see through her deceased brother’s dream for Rhino MMA. Julie is faced with so many challenges on top of the grief of losing her brother which she can’t seem to escape. She’s slowly learning to be okay with considering her own desires, thinking of herself and what SHE wants her future to hold.
I can’t wait to see how it plays out with Andrew— Joey definitely has control over the entire situation (this man hardly ever lets anyone control anything if he can help it.) I’m looking forward to seeing Julie conquering her fears and going for what she believes is best for herself and her future. Hopefully that means owning her brothers gym with Joey at her side, expanding with women MMA fighters signed to Rhino MMA!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2023
Okay, so I read this book awhile ago back when it was on Wattpad and it’s even better than before. First of all, I adore strong female characters and male characters who know exactly how to tame them.
I really loved how the story flowed. Ryder doesn’t hold back and what I really appreciate it how in depth the research is. I feel like I’m in the gym with these characters and so emotional involved in their outcome.
Apart from the actual romance of the book, the story plot was very well done and I am so freakin excited to hold this in my hands!
Congratulations CM!
Genuinely this book is absolutely incredible and so stoked to see how far it’s come.❤️❤️❤️❤️
I really loved how the story flowed. Ryder doesn’t hold back and what I really appreciate it how in depth the research is. I feel like I’m in the gym with these characters and so emotional involved in their outcome.
Apart from the actual romance of the book, the story plot was very well done and I am so freakin excited to hold this in my hands!
Congratulations CM!
Genuinely this book is absolutely incredible and so stoked to see how far it’s come.❤️❤️❤️❤️
February 15, 2023
I LOVED this book, i really want the next one right now because i cant wait and see what is going to happen…
This book had it all, perfect chemistry between the main characters, dual point of view with is a big plus. And the amount of time i laughed out loud! it was a very fun read.
Its a forbidden romance, forced proximity, work romance with a kind of enemies to lovers but very light and its done great!
Would have loved if the author instead of mainly (!!) focusing on their physical attraction, combined it with some more. I know that they have a few things in common and such but they dont really talk in the begining and even before that the attraction and saying the want each other comes up. And, even though there was a dual point of view i do wish we had more of Ryder, this was mainly Julie with Ryder coming in sometimes. Although its focusing on Julie, I loved reading Ryders pov and kept waiting for them!
However, I loved how their relationship developed later in the book, and I even got butterflies. Could not stop reading tbh.
This book had it all, perfect chemistry between the main characters, dual point of view with is a big plus. And the amount of time i laughed out loud! it was a very fun read.
Its a forbidden romance, forced proximity, work romance with a kind of enemies to lovers but very light and its done great!
Would have loved if the author instead of mainly (!!) focusing on their physical attraction, combined it with some more. I know that they have a few things in common and such but they dont really talk in the begining and even before that the attraction and saying the want each other comes up. And, even though there was a dual point of view i do wish we had more of Ryder, this was mainly Julie with Ryder coming in sometimes. Although its focusing on Julie, I loved reading Ryders pov and kept waiting for them!
However, I loved how their relationship developed later in the book, and I even got butterflies. Could not stop reading tbh.
March 4, 2023
I started this book yesterday morning and finished it before I went to bed. Couldn’t put it down! This was my first MMA romance and I loved it! I don’t know much about the sport, so I found it really interesting. Julie is a strong FMC. I loved how even though Ryder was her celebrity crush she didn’t allow him to intimidate her. And the steamy scenes were 🥵🥵🥵
If you need me, I’ll be here waiting for the next instalment in June.
If you need me, I’ll be here waiting for the next instalment in June.
February 4, 2023
I enjoyed the first installment of Ryder. We follow Julie, our grieving FMC who lost her brother and is now running his MMA gym when Joey Ryder shows up after disappearing from the scene for 3 years to train for a big competition. There's secrets and tension and chemistry galore! Jules and Joey are 🔥 together and I can't wait to see what's in store for them in book 2.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 8, 2023
I could not get enough of this book and I need the next one asap now that it's over! This slow burn, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, sports romance was sooo good!
I loved the writing, the characters, and their chemistry. I loved the way the main characters interacted and their banter was phenomenal. This book was so hard to put down and I cannot wait for the next one!
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved the writing, the characters, and their chemistry. I loved the way the main characters interacted and their banter was phenomenal. This book was so hard to put down and I cannot wait for the next one!
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 12, 2023
Quick easy read. Was my first MMA and sport romance. I thoroughly enjoyed it ☺️
February 16, 2023
YESSSSSSS! Bring on more of THIS love story! All the feels and more. MMA, too! It’s so good y’all. Couldn’t put it down until I was finished. I’ve not read a book by this author but I’m on a hunt for more. Super good!
February 8, 2023
What can I say? I absolutely loved this book, I finished it in one sitting because I could not put it down. Ryder sounds like pure sin and is the perfect, angsty male lead. I love the chemistry between Ryder and Julie and the build up, tension and development between them. As soon as I heard about Heather, I despised her and now I want to poke a needle in her eye. What a bitch.
I was disappointed to find out the book is a two part series. I assumed the book would finish and book two would focus on another character or couple who maybe featured in this book. Oh well, just means I have to patiently wait until June when part two comes along. Is it too soon to sign up as an ARC reader?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was disappointed to find out the book is a two part series. I assumed the book would finish and book two would focus on another character or couple who maybe featured in this book. Oh well, just means I have to patiently wait until June when part two comes along. Is it too soon to sign up as an ARC reader?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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February 8, 2023I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Julie and Ryder have a great dynamic. The fact that they start out rocky is an understatement. I look forward to reading book 2 in this series!
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
February 3, 2023
Im gonna be honest about my personal opinion on this book. Firstly, I actually like the concept of the plot. It was very new to me and I like learning new things I wasnt aware of. The writing style is perfectly clear and captivating, that's the main reason that kept me going until I finished this book. However, I must admit I didn't like the nain characters and that spoiled my mood most of the time. I couldnt see myself connects to those characters, and they irked me for some reason that I kept skimming the book for most parts. Hence it was why I couldnt quite enjoy the reading. But overall, it was an impressive book, but it wasnt for me.
August 28, 2023
This book was amazing. I found myself laughing and feeling all the things while I read it. Ryder was the perfect broody man who ended up surprising me along the way. I loved the journey of this book, and I can't wait for the next one!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 8, 2024
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𝙶𝙴𝙽𝚁𝙴: 𝖢𝗈𝗇𝗍𝖾𝗆𝗉𝗈𝗋𝖺𝗋𝗒 𝖱𝗈𝗆𝖺𝗇𝖼𝖾
𝚃𝚈𝙿𝙴: 𝖲𝖾𝗋𝗂𝖾𝗌
𝙰𝙶𝙴: 𝖭𝖾𝗐 𝖠𝖽𝗎𝗅𝗍
𝚂𝙰𝙵𝙴𝚃𝚈: 🟡
✦•····························••····························•✦•····························••····························•✦
𝙴𝚅𝙰𝙻𝚄𝙰𝚃𝙸𝙾𝙽:
𝖢𝗈𝗇𝖼𝖾𝗉𝗍 𝗂𝖽𝖾𝖺: 4/𝟻 🤔
𝖯𝗅𝗈𝗍: 3/𝟻 📖
𝖶𝗋𝗂𝗍𝗂𝗇𝗀: 4/𝟻 📝
𝖯𝖺𝖼𝗂𝗇𝗀: 3/𝟻 ⏱
𝖢𝗁𝖺𝗋𝖺𝖼𝗍𝖾𝗋𝗌: 4/𝟻 👥
𝖱𝗈𝗆𝖺𝗇𝖼𝖾: 4/𝟻 ❤️
𝖲𝗉𝗂𝖼𝖾: 2/𝟻 🔥
𝖢𝗈𝗏𝖾𝗋: 3/𝟻📓
✦•····························••····························•✦•····························••····························•✦
𝚃𝚁𝙾𝙿𝙴𝚂 / 𝙵𝙴𝙰𝚃𝚄𝚁𝙴𝚂:
🤫💔 𝖥𝗈𝗋𝖻𝗂𝖽𝖽𝖾𝗇 𝗅𝗈𝗏𝖾
🐻☀️ 𝖦𝗋𝗎𝗆𝗉𝗒-𝖲𝗎𝗇𝗌𝗁𝗂𝗇𝖾
🥊 𝖲𝗉𝗈𝗋𝗍𝗌 𝖱𝗈𝗆𝖺𝗇𝖼𝖾
✦•····························••····························•✦•····························••····························•✦
𝚂𝚄𝙼𝙼𝙰𝚁𝚈:
✦•····························••····························•✦•····························••····························•✦
𝙼𝚈 𝚃𝙷𝙾𝚄𝙶𝙷𝚃𝚂:
I had a hard time getting into the story, but I really liked the plot and the characters. It's a fast-paced short story with a cute relationship and definitely worth reading.
✦•····························••····························•✦•····························••····························•✦
𝖶𝗂𝗅𝗅 𝖨 𝖼𝗈𝗇𝗍𝗂𝗇𝗎𝖾 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝖽𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗌𝖾𝗋𝗂𝖾𝗌? ✔️
𝖶𝗈𝗎𝗅𝖽 𝖨 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝖽 𝗆𝗈𝗋𝖾 𝖻𝗒 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝖺𝗎𝗍𝗁𝗈𝗋? ✔️
𝖶𝗈𝗎𝗅𝖽 𝖨 𝗋𝖾𝖼𝗈𝗆𝗆𝖾𝗇𝖽? ✔️
✦•····························••····························•✦•····························••····························•✦
𝚃𝚆 / 𝙲𝚆:
✦•····························••····························•✦•····························••····························•✦
Warlord Duet
𝟏. Ryder: 4⭐
𝟐. Ryder-Salvation & Wreckage: 4⭐
𝙶𝙴𝙽𝚁𝙴: 𝖢𝗈𝗇𝗍𝖾𝗆𝗉𝗈𝗋𝖺𝗋𝗒 𝖱𝗈𝗆𝖺𝗇𝖼𝖾
𝚃𝚈𝙿𝙴: 𝖲𝖾𝗋𝗂𝖾𝗌
𝙰𝙶𝙴: 𝖭𝖾𝗐 𝖠𝖽𝗎𝗅𝗍
𝚂𝙰𝙵𝙴𝚃𝚈: 🟡
✦•····························••····························•✦•····························••····························•✦
𝙴𝚅𝙰𝙻𝚄𝙰𝚃𝙸𝙾𝙽:
𝖢𝗈𝗇𝖼𝖾𝗉𝗍 𝗂𝖽𝖾𝖺: 4/𝟻 🤔
𝖯𝗅𝗈𝗍: 3/𝟻 📖
𝖶𝗋𝗂𝗍𝗂𝗇𝗀: 4/𝟻 📝
𝖯𝖺𝖼𝗂𝗇𝗀: 3/𝟻 ⏱
𝖢𝗁𝖺𝗋𝖺𝖼𝗍𝖾𝗋𝗌: 4/𝟻 👥
𝖱𝗈𝗆𝖺𝗇𝖼𝖾: 4/𝟻 ❤️
𝖲𝗉𝗂𝖼𝖾: 2/𝟻 🔥
𝖢𝗈𝗏𝖾𝗋: 3/𝟻📓
✦•····························••····························•✦•····························••····························•✦
𝚃𝚁𝙾𝙿𝙴𝚂 / 𝙵𝙴𝙰𝚃𝚄𝚁𝙴𝚂:
🤫💔 𝖥𝗈𝗋𝖻𝗂𝖽𝖽𝖾𝗇 𝗅𝗈𝗏𝖾
🐻☀️ 𝖦𝗋𝗎𝗆𝗉𝗒-𝖲𝗎𝗇𝗌𝗁𝗂𝗇𝖾
🥊 𝖲𝗉𝗈𝗋𝗍𝗌 𝖱𝗈𝗆𝖺𝗇𝖼𝖾
✦•····························••····························•✦•····························••····························•✦
𝚂𝚄𝙼𝙼𝙰𝚁𝚈:
✦•····························••····························•✦•····························••····························•✦
𝙼𝚈 𝚃𝙷𝙾𝚄𝙶𝙷𝚃𝚂:
I had a hard time getting into the story, but I really liked the plot and the characters. It's a fast-paced short story with a cute relationship and definitely worth reading.
✦•····························••····························•✦•····························••····························•✦
𝖶𝗂𝗅𝗅 𝖨 𝖼𝗈𝗇𝗍𝗂𝗇𝗎𝖾 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝖽𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗌𝖾𝗋𝗂𝖾𝗌? ✔️
𝖶𝗈𝗎𝗅𝖽 𝖨 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝖽 𝗆𝗈𝗋𝖾 𝖻𝗒 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝖺𝗎𝗍𝗁𝗈𝗋? ✔️
𝖶𝗈𝗎𝗅𝖽 𝖨 𝗋𝖾𝖼𝗈𝗆𝗆𝖾𝗇𝖽? ✔️
✦•····························••····························•✦•····························••····························•✦
𝚃𝚆 / 𝙲𝚆:
✦•····························••····························•✦•····························••····························•✦
Warlord Duet
𝟏. Ryder: 4⭐
𝟐. Ryder-Salvation & Wreckage: 4⭐
February 29, 2024
Book Review: Ryder Shadows & Salvation by: Charlotte Mallory
🥊 Badass FMC
🥊 Overcoming grief
🥊 Epic Banter
🥊 Dual POV
🥊 Slow burn
🥊 Forced proximity
I love Charlotte’s writing I first read her book Secrets of Jane and I was hooked so when I saw this duet I had to read it. And yup her writing touch is still spot on! You quickly fall into her world building and fall for the characters! I binge read this book! It was so so good! The way she writes a slow burn is 🥵.
Julie is a fantastic female character she’s strong, determined, and intelligent. But she’s got a ton of stuff going on but handles the weight with grace outside but when she cracks oh man all the feels. Ryder is a grumpy guy and shrouded in mystery until he finally lets the walls down only for her and then he is a toasty marshmallow which I love! There is more a foot and blackmail could be what breaks down this unfolding romance but we are left on a cliffhanger to see what’s next in true Mallory style. I’ll be posting my review of the conclusion of book two here soon!
I had two quotes that made me cry… especially being an overwhelmed mom…
"Never feel guilty for prioritizing yourself."
"The point is, even if you want to settle, you should know there are two types of loneliness. One is while you’re in a relationship, and the other is when you’re at home, alone."
🥊 Badass FMC
🥊 Overcoming grief
🥊 Epic Banter
🥊 Dual POV
🥊 Slow burn
🥊 Forced proximity
I love Charlotte’s writing I first read her book Secrets of Jane and I was hooked so when I saw this duet I had to read it. And yup her writing touch is still spot on! You quickly fall into her world building and fall for the characters! I binge read this book! It was so so good! The way she writes a slow burn is 🥵.
Julie is a fantastic female character she’s strong, determined, and intelligent. But she’s got a ton of stuff going on but handles the weight with grace outside but when she cracks oh man all the feels. Ryder is a grumpy guy and shrouded in mystery until he finally lets the walls down only for her and then he is a toasty marshmallow which I love! There is more a foot and blackmail could be what breaks down this unfolding romance but we are left on a cliffhanger to see what’s next in true Mallory style. I’ll be posting my review of the conclusion of book two here soon!
I had two quotes that made me cry… especially being an overwhelmed mom…
"Never feel guilty for prioritizing yourself."
"The point is, even if you want to settle, you should know there are two types of loneliness. One is while you’re in a relationship, and the other is when you’re at home, alone."
February 17, 2023
Ryder, Ryder, Ryder.
I fell in love with a fighter named Joey Ryder.
Starting this book out, I honestly thought I would HATE Ryder. He was SUCH a brooding, hard ass. lol. But he definitely grew on me and OMG the way he opens up with Julie is perfection. The back and forth, dirty talk and straight up sexy demeanor of these two! UUUGGHH!
Julie is a sports therapist who recently became the owner of RHINO MMA after her brother's death. She is just flying by until her long time crush, Joey Ryder, comes to fight for her gym under her in-house coach, Andrew. Julie can't believe he's in Jeremey's gym, and she gets to see it happen, for her brother!
Ryder is a retired MMA fighter, coming back for 1 reason and one reason alone; MONEY. He WANTS the money to help his family and is determined to win WARLORD. Little did he think his new sports therapist was going to be the hottie that is Julie.
With a few hiccups along the way, will these two make it happen?
Prepare yourself for a cliff hanger because HOLY HELL is there one!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and love how Charlotte is so interactive with her readers via IG/TT.
Looking forward to book 2, as it's a guaranteed HEA. I just NEED to know what happens to Joey & Jules!
I fell in love with a fighter named Joey Ryder.
Starting this book out, I honestly thought I would HATE Ryder. He was SUCH a brooding, hard ass. lol. But he definitely grew on me and OMG the way he opens up with Julie is perfection. The back and forth, dirty talk and straight up sexy demeanor of these two! UUUGGHH!
Julie is a sports therapist who recently became the owner of RHINO MMA after her brother's death. She is just flying by until her long time crush, Joey Ryder, comes to fight for her gym under her in-house coach, Andrew. Julie can't believe he's in Jeremey's gym, and she gets to see it happen, for her brother!
Ryder is a retired MMA fighter, coming back for 1 reason and one reason alone; MONEY. He WANTS the money to help his family and is determined to win WARLORD. Little did he think his new sports therapist was going to be the hottie that is Julie.
With a few hiccups along the way, will these two make it happen?
Prepare yourself for a cliff hanger because HOLY HELL is there one!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and love how Charlotte is so interactive with her readers via IG/TT.
Looking forward to book 2, as it's a guaranteed HEA. I just NEED to know what happens to Joey & Jules!
March 3, 2023
great start to this duet
This is Charlotte’s debut novel and I really enjoyed it. While it was left on a cliffhanger, I can’t wait to get more of their story.
Julie Stevens is a Sports Therapist who is doing everything she can to keep her brother’s gym from closing and hoping things will turn around. While dealing with a full plate, she is grieving the loss of her brother and trying to find a way to continue.
She can’t imagine her luck when a legendary MMA who hasn’t fought in years walks into her gym. Let’s just say these two get off on the wrong foot that has Julie wishing that he never stepped foot in her gym.
I loved the chemistry that these two characters had and I loved seeing how Ryder finally let his walls down for Julie. I think this is why I like to Enemies to Lovers trope so much because I love to see when their feelings for each other finally take over. I loved learning more about these characters and their backstory. Some of the topics that are touched can be triggers to others so please check before reading.
Can’t wait for the conclusion to their story.
This is Charlotte’s debut novel and I really enjoyed it. While it was left on a cliffhanger, I can’t wait to get more of their story.
Julie Stevens is a Sports Therapist who is doing everything she can to keep her brother’s gym from closing and hoping things will turn around. While dealing with a full plate, she is grieving the loss of her brother and trying to find a way to continue.
She can’t imagine her luck when a legendary MMA who hasn’t fought in years walks into her gym. Let’s just say these two get off on the wrong foot that has Julie wishing that he never stepped foot in her gym.
I loved the chemistry that these two characters had and I loved seeing how Ryder finally let his walls down for Julie. I think this is why I like to Enemies to Lovers trope so much because I love to see when their feelings for each other finally take over. I loved learning more about these characters and their backstory. Some of the topics that are touched can be triggers to others so please check before reading.
Can’t wait for the conclusion to their story.
February 21, 2023
MMA superstar Joey Ryder disappeared from the fighting scene 3 years ago, and all of a sudden ends up in Julie’s training gym.
Now working with her celebrity crush during the biggest tournament of both their careers , lines get blurred between professional and personal relationships.
🥊 Forbidden Romance
🥊 Grumpy/Sunshine
🥊 Forced Proximity
This slow burn romance brings the heat! I love MMA sports stories and this one had a good mix of story about the characters but also a good sports storyline as well.
Both MCs went through some good development and I enjoyed learning their backstories as the book progresses. Both were well written and “l felt “real” with their feelings and how they handled situations.
The spice is slow burn, but when it shows up it is steamy!
Beyond the obvious romance theme there was also a really strong theme of duty to family which was really well incorporated.
I highly recommend this one for anyone who loves a good sports romance. This is book one in the duology and can’t have to read book two!
Now working with her celebrity crush during the biggest tournament of both their careers , lines get blurred between professional and personal relationships.
🥊 Forbidden Romance
🥊 Grumpy/Sunshine
🥊 Forced Proximity
This slow burn romance brings the heat! I love MMA sports stories and this one had a good mix of story about the characters but also a good sports storyline as well.
Both MCs went through some good development and I enjoyed learning their backstories as the book progresses. Both were well written and “l felt “real” with their feelings and how they handled situations.
The spice is slow burn, but when it shows up it is steamy!
Beyond the obvious romance theme there was also a really strong theme of duty to family which was really well incorporated.
I highly recommend this one for anyone who loves a good sports romance. This is book one in the duology and can’t have to read book two!
March 28, 2023
“I’d say I could show you what being choked out feels like, but not sure we’d be talking about the same thing.”
Where do I start?
The banter between Julie and Joey was so so good! They go toe to toe and have witty comebacks for every stupid thing the other says. Their flirting, especially Julie’s no filter quips, was really refreshing. Almost always you see FMC’s get flustered or shy when the MMC flirts but in this case she flirted back and I LOVED THAT!
Chapter 8 made me laugh so hard because I could just imagine that shit to happen to me. 😂
Only downside I felt with this book was that it didn’t feel complete. I know this is part of a duology but I felt like things were left hanging or in a limbo state. There was no particular resolution to any of the problems the MCs were facing. Apart from that I really enjoyed it and can’t wait for book 2!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Recommended!
PS. That truck scene 🫠🫠🫠
Where do I start?
The banter between Julie and Joey was so so good! They go toe to toe and have witty comebacks for every stupid thing the other says. Their flirting, especially Julie’s no filter quips, was really refreshing. Almost always you see FMC’s get flustered or shy when the MMC flirts but in this case she flirted back and I LOVED THAT!
Chapter 8 made me laugh so hard because I could just imagine that shit to happen to me. 😂
Only downside I felt with this book was that it didn’t feel complete. I know this is part of a duology but I felt like things were left hanging or in a limbo state. There was no particular resolution to any of the problems the MCs were facing. Apart from that I really enjoyed it and can’t wait for book 2!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Recommended!
PS. That truck scene 🫠🫠🫠
February 29, 2024
Review: Ryder (Warlord #1)
⭐️: 5 of 5
🌶️: 4 of 5
✨: 371 pages
"Never feel guilty for prioritizing yourself."
Read it if you like:
✔️ Sports romance
✔️ Grumpy X Sunshine
✔️ Dual POV
✔️ Forced proximity
✔️ Slow burn
✔️ Enemies to Lovers
BLURB: ''Sports therapist, Julie Stevens, reconsiders her taste in men when a brooding, legendary MMA fighter walks into her small-town gym. The fighter needs a team to prepare him for the brutal, winner-takes-all Warlord tournament. Meeting him person, she learns that he's crass, difficult, and even hostile... But she can't turn him away, as this is the break that the gym needs.....
Not only does she have to deal with the fact that Ryder was her celebrity crush for many years, but she also can't catch a break with the grumpy fighter. Every encounter seems to go wrong... and then, one day, it doesn't...''
SPOILERS AFTER THIS POINT
This was the 2nd book that I read by this author (the other was a dark romantasy) and her writing style completely takes me away from the first chapters! I was hooked by this book from the beginning and I loved it! The FMC is such a bada$$ trying to navigate her grief while working and at the same time, starting to feel all her confused feelings for Ryder, who, by the way is such a great MMC. Their dynamics keeps getting better as their feelings evolve, and the banter and sexual tension is off the roof until the enemies become lovers and that's when the books takes a turn and gets even better! This story is SPICY but also deep, emotional and YES there's a cliffhanger so I CAN'T wait to see what book two will bring!
⭐️: 5 of 5
🌶️: 4 of 5
✨: 371 pages
"Never feel guilty for prioritizing yourself."
Read it if you like:
✔️ Sports romance
✔️ Grumpy X Sunshine
✔️ Dual POV
✔️ Forced proximity
✔️ Slow burn
✔️ Enemies to Lovers
BLURB: ''Sports therapist, Julie Stevens, reconsiders her taste in men when a brooding, legendary MMA fighter walks into her small-town gym. The fighter needs a team to prepare him for the brutal, winner-takes-all Warlord tournament. Meeting him person, she learns that he's crass, difficult, and even hostile... But she can't turn him away, as this is the break that the gym needs.....
Not only does she have to deal with the fact that Ryder was her celebrity crush for many years, but she also can't catch a break with the grumpy fighter. Every encounter seems to go wrong... and then, one day, it doesn't...''
SPOILERS AFTER THIS POINT
This was the 2nd book that I read by this author (the other was a dark romantasy) and her writing style completely takes me away from the first chapters! I was hooked by this book from the beginning and I loved it! The FMC is such a bada$$ trying to navigate her grief while working and at the same time, starting to feel all her confused feelings for Ryder, who, by the way is such a great MMC. Their dynamics keeps getting better as their feelings evolve, and the banter and sexual tension is off the roof until the enemies become lovers and that's when the books takes a turn and gets even better! This story is SPICY but also deep, emotional and YES there's a cliffhanger so I CAN'T wait to see what book two will bring!
February 6, 2023
Julie wants to do what she can to keep the memory of her brother Jeremy alive by being the owner and physical therapist In comes Joey Ryder who was the top guy a few years ago. Andrew the coach she's him as the guy who will help rebrand the gym. Joey was intent on keeping his past a secret but Julie was able to break through his defenses. Julie and Ryder are ready to fight for each other but not give up on each other. Though there are things and people in the way. Including a vindictive ex girlfriend. I look forward to see what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 23, 2023
This book is a slow burn with plenty of sexual tension and heat. Ryder is a grumpy MMA fighter and Julie owns the gym he is training at. She has always had a crush on him and it only gets worse when he is right in front of her. As times goes on she sees the real man behind the mask. This book does not end here and I cannot wait for the sequel. I don’t normally like having to wait for a second book but this one seems like it will be worth it.
I received a copy from Booksirens and leave my review voluntarily.
I received a copy from Booksirens and leave my review voluntarily.
March 4, 2024
I was immediately drawn to this one because it’s a Charlotte Mallory novel and I loved one of her fantasy books I read. While this one is not fantasy, I loved it just as much, which tells me I just really love this author! Also, it’s stated up front that it has a guaranteed HEA. So while it is romantic suspense, I can sit back knowing that my lead couple will get their happy ending.
I loved the grumpy sunshine vibes of this one and that there was a lead up to everything, making the spice even steamier.
Thank you R&R Book Tours for this one!
I loved the grumpy sunshine vibes of this one and that there was a lead up to everything, making the spice even steamier.
Thank you R&R Book Tours for this one!
February 19, 2023
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. This is a cliffhanger and its a long wait for the next book. Julie is the owner of a MMA club and she has a trainer that trains MMA fighter. Ryder was Julie's favorite fighter and to have him training at her club is an honour. The only issue she has is she has always had a crush on Ryder and now she is also his physical therapist. She doesn't know how she will be able to take care of him and really take care of him. I can't wait for the conclusion to this series.
February 13, 2023
Ryder by Charlotte Mallory is a good, and enjoyable steamy enemies to lovers slow burn grumpy sunshine forbidden love sports romance read. The story has a good story line. The characters are good, and they have good chemistry. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 18, 2023
**I received an ARC for this book
I really liked this book & the characters. However, I gave it 4 stars since it took a while for me to get into it. I don’t know anything about MMA & wasn’t interested in that part & that’s why it took me longer to get into it.
I honestly can’t wait for the sequel to see how the rest of Warlord plays out & see Joey & Julie’s relationship develop more.
I really liked this book & the characters. However, I gave it 4 stars since it took a while for me to get into it. I don’t know anything about MMA & wasn’t interested in that part & that’s why it took me longer to get into it.
I honestly can’t wait for the sequel to see how the rest of Warlord plays out & see Joey & Julie’s relationship develop more.
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