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Wrestling Girls #2
Sucker Punch - Pretty Devils
Liv doesn't have much: a lousy job as a nightclub waitress she hates with every fibre of her being, a hostile mother with whom she has to share their tiny council flat, and a chronically empty bank account due to her mother's drinking and gambling problems. Her entire world crashes when she suddenly finds herself jobless and homeless. Her only hope seemes to be the chance to earn a full-time contract at the Beatcave wrestling club in Camden. She's not an excellent wrestler, but her old friend Rue did teach her something back in the day, so maybe she could have a chance..
Walking into the try-outs as a convinced straight girl, she meets Raisa, the most gorgeous young woman she has ever laid her eyes upon. Raisa is a tall, grumpy goth with a ridiculously ripped body and the face of an angel who seems to understand her better than Liv can understand herself. As they go through the three-month probation period at the Beatcave together, the two start growing closer and soon Liv finds herself drawn to beautiful Raisa in ways she can't explain.
[ Tags & tropes: sunshine/grumpy; poor girl/rich girl; smol/tol; strangers to friends to lovers; slow burn; staged relationship; sexual realisation; romantic comedy. ]
Walking into the try-outs as a convinced straight girl, she meets Raisa, the most gorgeous young woman she has ever laid her eyes upon. Raisa is a tall, grumpy goth with a ridiculously ripped body and the face of an angel who seems to understand her better than Liv can understand herself. As they go through the three-month probation period at the Beatcave together, the two start growing closer and soon Liv finds herself drawn to beautiful Raisa in ways she can't explain.
[ Tags & tropes: sunshine/grumpy; poor girl/rich girl; smol/tol; strangers to friends to lovers; slow burn; staged relationship; sexual realisation; romantic comedy. ]
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First published March 20, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
May 5, 2023
Liv is pretty desperate: she hates her job as a nightclub waitress and her home feels like a prison, with her alcoholic and gambling-addict mother spending all Liv’s hard-earned money. On a whim, she tries out for a spot as a wrestler at the Beatcave and lands a three-month internship along with two other women, one of whom is the infamous Raisa we met in book one.
I don’t know anything about wrestling. Nothing at all. So it took this sentence for me to understand where the author’s pen name comes from: “The following part was bigger storytelling, marking the birth of three new personas in the fictional world of kayfabe”. According to the Cambridge Dictionary, kayfabe is “the practice of trying to make people believe that wrestlers are particular characters, when in fact they are only pretending to be those characters”. Which I guess I kinda knew? Anyway, I love the way the author describes the matches, the mix of sports and theatre, the excitement, the show, the sounds and energy.
Pretty Devils can probably be read as a standalone but I wouldn’t recommend it. The first Sucker Punch book introduces the whole crew and the place and you’ll get to enjoy the story a lot more if you’re already familiar with the Beatcave crew.
The found family that made book one so nice to read is at the core of this one too. I struggled a bit to get into the story because the beginning felt overly melodramatic, which I guess was needed to set the scene, and highlight Liv’s journey (past and to come).
Things can go one of two ways with characters like Liv. You can either find her annoying or endearing. It was the second for me (with a tiny dash of the first) and if it is for you as well, you’ll enjoy witnessing her finding a good life with good people.
I don’t remember which author said it a long time ago, but second books are often harder to write. There are expectations after the first one, especially if it’s successful. More pressure on the author. For the reader, there’s no sense of novelty anymore either. And so it’s not rare that a second book will feel a little under. Pretty Devils has a lot of what I loved in the first Sucker Punch book, it also has a few more flaws and inconsistencies. Why doesn’t Raisa offer her couch to Liv even for a couple of days when she finds out she’s homeless, for example? Even so, I really like the characters, I like the atmosphere, and I also enjoy reading about things working out and people being kind. If you’re looking for a feel-good series with sweat and bruises, you’ve found it.
I received a copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read all my reviews on my blog (and please buy from the affiliation links!): Jude in the Stars
March 15, 2023
I am officially obsessed with this series and with the whole Beatcave family! It just keeps getting better and better with each new character introduced into the series. Just when I think I can’t love this beautiful queer group of disasters more than I already do, Kayla Faber proves me wrong and they wiggle their way even deeper into my heart.
This whole series is the found family of all found families. There is just so much love I think my heart might burst. Volume 2 was a 500 page book and I read it in just two days because I simply couldn’t put it down. Raisa and Liv and Blair (even though I had a lot of disdain for Blair in the beginning) were all such great additions to the Beatcave family.
But Riz and Liv – too freaking adorable for their own good! Their playful banter. Liv’s drive to make Riz laugh and smile. Riz’s desire to protect and care for tiny Liv. The puns!! The way they just seem to orbit around and toward one another without even trying. Neither of them stood a chance from that very first encounter at tryouts. Crimson and Ivy. Tol and smol. And just perfect for each other in every way. #PrettyDevils
I highlighted so many parts of this book, but one of my favorite lines was:
“Well, f*ck,” Roxie croaked, “just when I thought I couldn’t get any gayer…”
Yep! That about sums it up! 😂 And speaking of Roxie…. We get a lot more of Roxie and Fiona in this book and I loved every bit of it! Best sideship ever! These two are #goals.
Also…Agnes Sinclair. SO F*ING HOT!! You can call her daddy…😉🥵
So so many things I love about this book and these characters. They feel like family! And the ending….😲 I CANNOT wait for volume 3 to come out! ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
I asked the author for an ARC of this book and she graciously sent it to me! But I will definitely be buying the hardcover edition to keep!
⚠️TW: alcoholism, family trauma, poverty/homelessness
This whole series is the found family of all found families. There is just so much love I think my heart might burst. Volume 2 was a 500 page book and I read it in just two days because I simply couldn’t put it down. Raisa and Liv and Blair (even though I had a lot of disdain for Blair in the beginning) were all such great additions to the Beatcave family.
But Riz and Liv – too freaking adorable for their own good! Their playful banter. Liv’s drive to make Riz laugh and smile. Riz’s desire to protect and care for tiny Liv. The puns!! The way they just seem to orbit around and toward one another without even trying. Neither of them stood a chance from that very first encounter at tryouts. Crimson and Ivy. Tol and smol. And just perfect for each other in every way. #PrettyDevils
I highlighted so many parts of this book, but one of my favorite lines was:
“Well, f*ck,” Roxie croaked, “just when I thought I couldn’t get any gayer…”
Yep! That about sums it up! 😂 And speaking of Roxie…. We get a lot more of Roxie and Fiona in this book and I loved every bit of it! Best sideship ever! These two are #goals.
Also…Agnes Sinclair. SO F*ING HOT!! You can call her daddy…😉🥵
So so many things I love about this book and these characters. They feel like family! And the ending….😲 I CANNOT wait for volume 3 to come out! ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
I asked the author for an ARC of this book and she graciously sent it to me! But I will definitely be buying the hardcover edition to keep!
⚠️TW: alcoholism, family trauma, poverty/homelessness
January 11, 2023
After loving the first volume I requested an ARC of this second installment coming out in March to the author and she was so kind to send me one in exchange for an honest review.
I read this entire book in one night. No shit. I got the email with the ARC last night at 10 PM, started reading right away... and next thing I new it was 5 AM. And my heart was singing.
I thought I loved the first book because of how true and genuine the love in it is, in all its forms... I wasn't emotionally ready to be completely blown away by Pretty Devils. The real superpower of this author is the heart she can put in each and every of her characters, even the ones who aren't really prominent in the story. That's what truly brings everything to life, what makes you smile and tear up as you read about this bunch of "queer disaster idiots" and their life at the Beatcave.
I wasn't particularly impressed at first by the main character because, after the lovely POC romance we got in the first book, we're now presented with... a lot of whiteness. BUT! It only takes a couple of chapters to grow fond of Liv and her struggles with life and the world. It's never stated anywhere that she's neurodivergent (autistic, I assume?) because, as many neurodivergent people in real life, she never got a disognosis: her mother just calls her stupid and Liv herself believes it's simply a learning disability. So bonus points for the white MFC. Liv is also poor and struggling to make ends meet every month because of her mother's drinking and gambling problems, but she never whines like a martyr and I really appreciated her tough fragility.
On the other side of the spectrum, quite literally, we have Raisa, who is gorgeous and strong and has never had to struggle for anything, coming from a loving, wealthy family. Raisa is presented, at first, as your sterotypical goth: brooding, quiet, maybe even slightly curt (I was swooning the very moment she was introduced), an Ice Queen clad in leather who likes to mind her own business and keep to herself.
No spoilers as to how they meet and how their relastionship begins and develops, but let me say this: we see both these characters bloom page after page right before out eyes. Liv, from the small, frightened kitten she was in the beginning, slowly starts learning to trust people and let her real self come out in the safe and friendly environment of the Beatcave. The dark ice coating Raisa's character starts melting away as she sends more and more time with Liv and I promise you you'll love every bit of their evolution as individuals and as a couple. Liv and Raisa and both far from perfect and they do a lot of things wrong (mostly because Liv has a hard time dealing with emotions and distressing events), but the patience and understanding and deep affection binding them together are stronger than anything else.
Now, subplots I ADORED:
- Roxie and Fiona. These two are show stealers: lesbian couple goals and the most beautiful Gay Moms energy you'll ever find. Watching them together really warms your heart.
- Blu. Blair fucking Lucas, ladies and gentlemen, is a GEM. When she first appeared I groaned to myself: "Oh, here's the gratuitously mean girl whose only prupose is to make the protagonist's life a nightmare." I was wrong. Oooh, boy, so wrong! There's so much to her to discover in between the lines. ILUSM, Blu.
- Mum and her girlfriend + Dad and his boyfriend (I know it sounds funny, but... just read these books, it'll make sense). I sense BIG poly vibes with them and I LOVE it. The poly representation in fiction is so rare, especially non problematic, healthy polyamory, and I think it's so refreshing to see it such a positive, loving portrayal, even if barely hinted at. Maybe it's all just in my brain, but... a win is a win. *wink*
To summarise this endless, delighted rambling of a review, here's what you'll find in this book:
- REALISTIC NEURODIVERGENCY REPRESENTATION
- SLOW BURN *CHEF'S KISS* (you can literally see L&R fall in love and will call them idiots A LOT)
- PLENTY OF (devastatingly beautiful) FOUND FAMILY FEELS
- STRONG WOMEN AND SOFT MEN
- POSITIVE STRAIGHT CHARACTERS (who also are idiots in love but won't say it)
- POOR GIRL DATING RICH GIRL BUT WANTING TO BE THE ONE WHO DOES THE SPOILING (seriously, though, this alone should earn this book an extra star.)
- SO. MUCH. LOVE. (I want to be a part of this bunch of dorks. Where do I apply?)
Go read these books RIGHT NOW. Your queer heart will thank you.
I read this entire book in one night. No shit. I got the email with the ARC last night at 10 PM, started reading right away... and next thing I new it was 5 AM. And my heart was singing.
I thought I loved the first book because of how true and genuine the love in it is, in all its forms... I wasn't emotionally ready to be completely blown away by Pretty Devils. The real superpower of this author is the heart she can put in each and every of her characters, even the ones who aren't really prominent in the story. That's what truly brings everything to life, what makes you smile and tear up as you read about this bunch of "queer disaster idiots" and their life at the Beatcave.
I wasn't particularly impressed at first by the main character because, after the lovely POC romance we got in the first book, we're now presented with... a lot of whiteness. BUT! It only takes a couple of chapters to grow fond of Liv and her struggles with life and the world. It's never stated anywhere that she's neurodivergent (autistic, I assume?) because, as many neurodivergent people in real life, she never got a disognosis: her mother just calls her stupid and Liv herself believes it's simply a learning disability. So bonus points for the white MFC. Liv is also poor and struggling to make ends meet every month because of her mother's drinking and gambling problems, but she never whines like a martyr and I really appreciated her tough fragility.
On the other side of the spectrum, quite literally, we have Raisa, who is gorgeous and strong and has never had to struggle for anything, coming from a loving, wealthy family. Raisa is presented, at first, as your sterotypical goth: brooding, quiet, maybe even slightly curt (I was swooning the very moment she was introduced), an Ice Queen clad in leather who likes to mind her own business and keep to herself.
No spoilers as to how they meet and how their relastionship begins and develops, but let me say this: we see both these characters bloom page after page right before out eyes. Liv, from the small, frightened kitten she was in the beginning, slowly starts learning to trust people and let her real self come out in the safe and friendly environment of the Beatcave. The dark ice coating Raisa's character starts melting away as she sends more and more time with Liv and I promise you you'll love every bit of their evolution as individuals and as a couple. Liv and Raisa and both far from perfect and they do a lot of things wrong (mostly because Liv has a hard time dealing with emotions and distressing events), but the patience and understanding and deep affection binding them together are stronger than anything else.
Now, subplots I ADORED:
- Roxie and Fiona. These two are show stealers: lesbian couple goals and the most beautiful Gay Moms energy you'll ever find. Watching them together really warms your heart.
- Blu. Blair fucking Lucas, ladies and gentlemen, is a GEM. When she first appeared I groaned to myself: "Oh, here's the gratuitously mean girl whose only prupose is to make the protagonist's life a nightmare." I was wrong. Oooh, boy, so wrong! There's so much to her to discover in between the lines. ILUSM, Blu.
- Mum and her girlfriend + Dad and his boyfriend (I know it sounds funny, but... just read these books, it'll make sense). I sense BIG poly vibes with them and I LOVE it. The poly representation in fiction is so rare, especially non problematic, healthy polyamory, and I think it's so refreshing to see it such a positive, loving portrayal, even if barely hinted at. Maybe it's all just in my brain, but... a win is a win. *wink*
To summarise this endless, delighted rambling of a review, here's what you'll find in this book:
- REALISTIC NEURODIVERGENCY REPRESENTATION
- SLOW BURN *CHEF'S KISS* (you can literally see L&R fall in love and will call them idiots A LOT)
- PLENTY OF (devastatingly beautiful) FOUND FAMILY FEELS
- STRONG WOMEN AND SOFT MEN
- POSITIVE STRAIGHT CHARACTERS (who also are idiots in love but won't say it)
- POOR GIRL DATING RICH GIRL BUT WANTING TO BE THE ONE WHO DOES THE SPOILING (seriously, though, this alone should earn this book an extra star.)
- SO. MUCH. LOVE. (I want to be a part of this bunch of dorks. Where do I apply?)
Go read these books RIGHT NOW. Your queer heart will thank you.
October 18, 2025
I love Riz and Liv relationship. The longing in Riz's action and her understanding of Liv's need and problems. Just an amazing dynamic between the two of them. And don't get me started on the side character- Fiona and Roxie ( they totally stole the show)
January 26, 2023
What a fantastic book, I absolutely loved it! Liv is so loveable and adorable, and Raisa, she is strong and just, WOW 😏. I loved them, both and loved watching them blossom and their relationship grow! The way they looked after each other was beautiful. I absolutely love the whole Wrestling Family! I really didn't want the book to end. It was a hard one to put down 😍
Thank you, Kayla, for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC of this! It was such a pleasure 🙏
I highly recommend this book and Sucker Punch Vol. I'm really looking forward to Vol. III 😏
Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🌶
Thank you, Kayla, for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC of this! It was such a pleasure 🙏
I highly recommend this book and Sucker Punch Vol. I'm really looking forward to Vol. III 😏
Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🌶
April 27, 2025
I really really really wanted to love this because hot girls and wrestling and everything else.
But I just didn't. I think It's because I'm just not the intended audience. So much time was spent on the minutia of wrestling and the ending that was teased was just so obvious after the first third. It was also very much closed door/fade to black, which is fine, but do be aware, if you keep waiting for that, it's not coming. There were so many characters and arcs that it didn't feel like a fun fluffy romance, more like a high fantasy level of worldbuilding in London.
Again, not bad things, so I rated it highly, but not for me.
But I just didn't. I think It's because I'm just not the intended audience. So much time was spent on the minutia of wrestling and the ending that was teased was just so obvious after the first third. It was also very much closed door/fade to black, which is fine, but do be aware, if you keep waiting for that, it's not coming. There were so many characters and arcs that it didn't feel like a fun fluffy romance, more like a high fantasy level of worldbuilding in London.
Again, not bad things, so I rated it highly, but not for me.
July 8, 2024
The best book out of the series! Liv captured my heart. Her POV just shines through and how can she be so precious after everything. I need more Riz and Liv missing scenes, want to see them get married too!
July 22, 2023
I preferred this one over book one! I liked having that story in my head so I knew who all the characters were, most of them anyway, and I liked all the new characters being introduced. Where the first was more fun and light, this one has those things while also having a lot of depth to it.
July 24, 2024
I enjoyed this book as much if not more than the previous book in the series. Faber truly does a wonderful job of interweaving the romance with the exciting world of wrestling. It was a blast to see the whole crew together again. I loved getting to see everyone from a new perspective. Roxie and Fiona might have been the faves again though. I just really love how much the tease each other mixed with how sweet they are to each other.
Liv and Raisa were amazing. I truly felt for Liv and wanted her to be happy the entire book. I'm glad she was able to find the family that she has now in the Beatcave fam. Fiona and Roxie played pivotal roles in helping her get there. And in getting her to see what was right in front of her face with regards to Raisa. OMG, Raisa. She was such a simp for Liv. It was so endearing how Liv could charm a smile and warmth from the "Nordic Goddess." There were some spicy scenes in this book, unlike the previous one. I really enjoyed it, but would have loved to be walked through Liv's first bumbling steps as a lover of women as well.
There is a third act breakup. It doesn't last too long in the book, and not too long chronologically either. I can see where Liv came from with her ultimatum. I completely disagree with, and felt like it was a little out of character for how in tune Raisa was about Liv's sensitivities, what she did to make Liv give the ultimatum in the first place. Bowing out so your SO can win something just sends the message that you didn't think they could do it themselves. It's pretty cowardly and a bit of a conceited jerk move to be honest.
Liv and Raisa were amazing. I truly felt for Liv and wanted her to be happy the entire book. I'm glad she was able to find the family that she has now in the Beatcave fam. Fiona and Roxie played pivotal roles in helping her get there. And in getting her to see what was right in front of her face with regards to Raisa. OMG, Raisa. She was such a simp for Liv. It was so endearing how Liv could charm a smile and warmth from the "Nordic Goddess." There were some spicy scenes in this book, unlike the previous one. I really enjoyed it, but would have loved to be walked through Liv's first bumbling steps as a lover of women as well.
There is a third act breakup. It doesn't last too long in the book, and not too long chronologically either. I can see where Liv came from with her ultimatum. I completely disagree with, and felt like it was a little out of character for how in tune Raisa was about Liv's sensitivities, what she did to make Liv give the ultimatum in the first place. Bowing out so your SO can win something just sends the message that you didn't think they could do it themselves. It's pretty cowardly and a bit of a conceited jerk move to be honest.
January 22, 2023
I requsted an ARC in exchange for an honest review, because I loved the first book so much I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one. I'm definitely byuing this all the same as soon as it's released because I couldn't put it down and couldn't stop gushing over these new main characters.
SPOILER FREE REVIEW
Premise: I had no idea what an ARC was until some kind soul in Instagram explained it to me. I'm so hummbled I had an opportunity to read Pretty Devils in advance because it's THAT good and now I kinda wish I could experience reading it for the first time again. Once again I was left speechless by how smoothly the author brings out the soul of her characters little by little with small lines and even smaller gestures which, as you read on, start giving you a beautiful portrait of a variety of people you will fall in love with before you even know it.
While Sucker Punch was soft and fluffy and quite simple in its lovely plot, Pretty Devils wanders into new territories, exploring the inner world of Liv, a young girl whose life has never been easy: she is struggling to make ends meet and has to deal with an emotionally abusive mother who wastes their little money in alcohol and gambling. Liv is a sweet, genuine protagonist who is strong and brave despite her fragility: she fights day by day to get by in a world that's too loud and chaotic and scares her a little, but doesn't give up even when all hopes seem lost.
When she meets beautiful and talented wrestler Raisa, it's not the smoothest start for them: Raisa is as distant and grumpy as Liv is sunny and lively (as Raisa would say, LIV-ly) and it takes them a while to find their footing, but, when they get there, you their feelings will evolve so beautifully and realistically you will simply end up smiling from ear to ear for how perfect they are for each other. Raisa's pining is so heart-wrenching to witness and Liv's obliviouness (again, as Raisa would say, ob-LIV-iousness) is both frustrating and adorable. Also, don't expect your sterotypical grumpy/sunshine dynamic, because this book overthrows them all. I don't want to spoil beautiful details. Just read it and fall in love with the Pretty Devils yourself.
Family in still pivotal in this second volume, as the Beatcave is tangibly built on the most adorable and diverse found family. It was nice to find Pam and Lea again, now an established couple, and San and Freddie (gay lovebirds), and especially Fiona and Roxie, who have big news and are still hilariously reletable as a couple of lesbian dorks.
I almost regret reading this so fast beause the ending (oooh, the ending!) left me craving for Vol. III and I know it will be forever before I get to read it. I'm sure it will be worth it, though.
I gave 5 stars to the first one, but this one deserves ten for how graciously and delicately it touches some very dark themes, but the love and the understanding are so deep and so real the heartache only makes the joy all the sweeter. As Ron Weasley would say: "You're gonna suffer, but you're gonna be happy about it."
ETA: the whole 4/54 pun thing was pure genius! I love it. There was obviously a lot of plotting and planning ahead around it and I love this kind of this. Well done!
SPOILER FREE REVIEW
Premise: I had no idea what an ARC was until some kind soul in Instagram explained it to me. I'm so hummbled I had an opportunity to read Pretty Devils in advance because it's THAT good and now I kinda wish I could experience reading it for the first time again. Once again I was left speechless by how smoothly the author brings out the soul of her characters little by little with small lines and even smaller gestures which, as you read on, start giving you a beautiful portrait of a variety of people you will fall in love with before you even know it.
While Sucker Punch was soft and fluffy and quite simple in its lovely plot, Pretty Devils wanders into new territories, exploring the inner world of Liv, a young girl whose life has never been easy: she is struggling to make ends meet and has to deal with an emotionally abusive mother who wastes their little money in alcohol and gambling. Liv is a sweet, genuine protagonist who is strong and brave despite her fragility: she fights day by day to get by in a world that's too loud and chaotic and scares her a little, but doesn't give up even when all hopes seem lost.
When she meets beautiful and talented wrestler Raisa, it's not the smoothest start for them: Raisa is as distant and grumpy as Liv is sunny and lively (as Raisa would say, LIV-ly) and it takes them a while to find their footing, but, when they get there, you their feelings will evolve so beautifully and realistically you will simply end up smiling from ear to ear for how perfect they are for each other. Raisa's pining is so heart-wrenching to witness and Liv's obliviouness (again, as Raisa would say, ob-LIV-iousness) is both frustrating and adorable. Also, don't expect your sterotypical grumpy/sunshine dynamic, because this book overthrows them all. I don't want to spoil beautiful details. Just read it and fall in love with the Pretty Devils yourself.
Family in still pivotal in this second volume, as the Beatcave is tangibly built on the most adorable and diverse found family. It was nice to find Pam and Lea again, now an established couple, and San and Freddie (gay lovebirds), and especially Fiona and Roxie, who have big news and are still hilariously reletable as a couple of lesbian dorks.
I almost regret reading this so fast beause the ending (oooh, the ending!) left me craving for Vol. III and I know it will be forever before I get to read it. I'm sure it will be worth it, though.
I gave 5 stars to the first one, but this one deserves ten for how graciously and delicately it touches some very dark themes, but the love and the understanding are so deep and so real the heartache only makes the joy all the sweeter. As Ron Weasley would say: "You're gonna suffer, but you're gonna be happy about it."
ETA: the whole 4/54 pun thing was pure genius! I love it. There was obviously a lot of plotting and planning ahead around it and I love this kind of this. Well done!
February 3, 2023
After chomping at the bit for months after knowing this story was going to be released, the author was so kind enough to bestow to me an ARC in exchange for an honest review and I got to say, it was everything that I could have hoped for and expected from such a talented author.
Liv and Raisa’s story was written so beautifully. Liv being the bubbly, adorable, outgoing one in spite of the cards that have been dealt in her life. And then we have Raisa, who is strong, softspoken and stand-offish. There was every reason in the world why the two of them would not work, but after training together at the Beatcave (the wrestling club where we meet the second half of the duo) coffee dates, not so-random encounters, we see Raisa’s facade fade away, as she gets to know Liv.
The author did such a wonderful job writing the inner struggles and hardships the two women have had to endure while navigating this newfound fondness of each-other. From homelessness, to job loss, to alcoholism, many situations within its pages hit home to many readers, including myself. But don’t let that deter you! There is an abundance of heartwarming moments worthy of a Hallmark film in “Pretty Devils” as well.
If you love wrestling and sapphic romance. The “Sucker Punch” series will not leave you disappointed. I know that I certainly wasn’t. I’m looking forward to the next installment!
Liv and Raisa’s story was written so beautifully. Liv being the bubbly, adorable, outgoing one in spite of the cards that have been dealt in her life. And then we have Raisa, who is strong, softspoken and stand-offish. There was every reason in the world why the two of them would not work, but after training together at the Beatcave (the wrestling club where we meet the second half of the duo) coffee dates, not so-random encounters, we see Raisa’s facade fade away, as she gets to know Liv.
The author did such a wonderful job writing the inner struggles and hardships the two women have had to endure while navigating this newfound fondness of each-other. From homelessness, to job loss, to alcoholism, many situations within its pages hit home to many readers, including myself. But don’t let that deter you! There is an abundance of heartwarming moments worthy of a Hallmark film in “Pretty Devils” as well.
If you love wrestling and sapphic romance. The “Sucker Punch” series will not leave you disappointed. I know that I certainly wasn’t. I’m looking forward to the next installment!
March 18, 2023
Some times a book just takes you by surprise, this is one of those!
This is my first read of Kayla Faber’s books, while I really enjoyed the characters and the location, I was a bit put off by the many, many typos and grammatical errors. I am not perfect by any means, but it just got in the way of my enjoyment. Would I not recommend this book? Heck no, the story is too good, the themes to intricate to gloss over, and the sheer fun is too good to miss.
This is my first read of Kayla Faber’s books, while I really enjoyed the characters and the location, I was a bit put off by the many, many typos and grammatical errors. I am not perfect by any means, but it just got in the way of my enjoyment. Would I not recommend this book? Heck no, the story is too good, the themes to intricate to gloss over, and the sheer fun is too good to miss.
January 18, 2023
A copy of the book was provided to Sapphic Book Club in exchange for an honest review.
This time around, the Beatcave crew follows new recruits on probation, Liv and Raisa, as they compete for one permanent spot, and possibly find love along the way. Liv, a recently jobless and houseless, tryouts at the Beatcave and to her surprise, make the probation list. There she finds friends and family as she is accepted into the fold, and weaves her way into the grumpy goth Norse Goddess, Raisa. Raisa was introduced in the first book, as a member of the Street Devils, and continues her impressive wrestling skills at the Beatcave.
It was nice to spend time with the Beatcave family again. I did find myself enjoying this book more than the previous one but I think that was mostly because I knew the wrestling terms better, so I was able to focus on the characters more than trying to understand wrestling.
All in all, an enjoyable sports romance with a continuing growing found family. I would suggest reading the first book first but it is not necessary.
This time around, the Beatcave crew follows new recruits on probation, Liv and Raisa, as they compete for one permanent spot, and possibly find love along the way. Liv, a recently jobless and houseless, tryouts at the Beatcave and to her surprise, make the probation list. There she finds friends and family as she is accepted into the fold, and weaves her way into the grumpy goth Norse Goddess, Raisa. Raisa was introduced in the first book, as a member of the Street Devils, and continues her impressive wrestling skills at the Beatcave.
It was nice to spend time with the Beatcave family again. I did find myself enjoying this book more than the previous one but I think that was mostly because I knew the wrestling terms better, so I was able to focus on the characters more than trying to understand wrestling.
All in all, an enjoyable sports romance with a continuing growing found family. I would suggest reading the first book first but it is not necessary.
April 3, 2023
Absolutely amazing, amazing, amazing, amazing
I can't believe this author doesn't have hundreds and hundreds of reviews. Her writing is aaaaaah-mazing! She wraps you in the story, nice and tight and I don't want her books to end. You can tell she pours her heart and soul into her writing and it shows on every single page. This love story is so sweet and so cheesy I am here for it!
I can't believe this author doesn't have hundreds and hundreds of reviews. Her writing is aaaaaah-mazing! She wraps you in the story, nice and tight and I don't want her books to end. You can tell she pours her heart and soul into her writing and it shows on every single page. This love story is so sweet and so cheesy I am here for it!
April 27, 2023
Its been a long time since I had a hard time putting a book down! I love Liv and Riz they are so cute and adorable. Their banter and puns were very fun to read.
I am always a sucker for friends to lovers books so this one was very enjoyable for me especially when Liv was clueless about her feelings and when she finally realized she is indeed in love with Riz. The confession scene was too cute for words. I was smiling from ear to ear. You could really feel their chemistry and their love for each other.
I really recommend this book! Can’t wait for the third one!
I am always a sucker for friends to lovers books so this one was very enjoyable for me especially when Liv was clueless about her feelings and when she finally realized she is indeed in love with Riz. The confession scene was too cute for words. I was smiling from ear to ear. You could really feel their chemistry and their love for each other.
I really recommend this book! Can’t wait for the third one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2023
Hooked from the start
Everything about this book drew me in and kept my attention from beginning to end. All the feels throughout! Rooting for the underdog (or underpuppy 😉) the grumpy goddess and even the ‘evil’ heel just naturally progressed throughout as the character development just thrived! Thank you Ms. Faber for taking the time to write an amazing story!
Everything about this book drew me in and kept my attention from beginning to end. All the feels throughout! Rooting for the underdog (or underpuppy 😉) the grumpy goddess and even the ‘evil’ heel just naturally progressed throughout as the character development just thrived! Thank you Ms. Faber for taking the time to write an amazing story!
July 11, 2023
I think it’s fair to say I’m obsessed with this series absolutely adore this book definitely going to re read in the future. Can we just appreciate Raisa please she is the sweetest of souls and Liv is so relatable I loved their relationship.
Super excited for volume III
Super excited for volume III
February 16, 2024
As soon as I started reading this book, I immediately felt encompassed in the Beatcave world. All of my favorite characters from the first book were back, as adorable and relatable as ever. The side relationships between Pam & Lea, Sean & Freddie, and Roxie & Fiona were so loving, warm, and charming. The little snippets we saw of their relationships made me smile so much. This book had a great mix of old and new characters.
I love Liv and Raisa! Seeing Liv’s journey from a token straight girl (aka “emotional support heterosexual”) to an out and proud queer woman was amazing. Both Liv and Raisa’s feelings for each other emerged gradually and it made me want to shout at them for being so oblivious (in the best way possible). Once they started dating, their relationship was absolutely adorable! I loved seeing the cute public reaction to their relationship – the social media comments from their fans were so fun to read.
Seeing Liv start to accept love, kindness, help, and physical touch was so beautiful. I actually teared up a little when Liv started to be more open and trusting.
This was a feel good and cozy book despite some heavier themes. I appreciated that the author included a content advisory in this book. I have also included my own more detailed content advisory below in case that is helpful to anyone.
I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
Content Advisory:
I love Liv and Raisa! Seeing Liv’s journey from a token straight girl (aka “emotional support heterosexual”) to an out and proud queer woman was amazing. Both Liv and Raisa’s feelings for each other emerged gradually and it made me want to shout at them for being so oblivious (in the best way possible). Once they started dating, their relationship was absolutely adorable! I loved seeing the cute public reaction to their relationship – the social media comments from their fans were so fun to read.
Seeing Liv start to accept love, kindness, help, and physical touch was so beautiful. I actually teared up a little when Liv started to be more open and trusting.
This was a feel good and cozy book despite some heavier themes. I appreciated that the author included a content advisory in this book. I have also included my own more detailed content advisory below in case that is helpful to anyone.
I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
Content Advisory:
March 20, 2023
‘Suckerpunch- Pretty Devils’ is a heart-felt, dynamic, action-packed read that I couldn’t put down.
Disclaimer I know nothing about wrestling and that did not impact my enjoyment of this romance whatsoever. Faber writes with such flow and ease that although as a reader you are thrown into the world of wrestling you definitely do not feel like an outsider. I think that’s some of the beauty in the setting that Faber constructs within her writing; you and the protagonist, Liv, are quickly enveloped into the Beatcave family.
Liv is one of the sweetest characters I have read in a long time because even though life has not always been good to her she still tries to see the good in the little things. We meet her at her hardest moment; her mother throws her out and she loses her job, both through no fault of her own but from her pain she chooses to take a risk on something just for her and her life completely changes.
Liv’s audition at the Beatcave wrestling club leads her to meet Raisa, a moody but stunning young woman that Liv cannot help but be drawn towards. Both of these women are competitors for a professional contract but from day one they are inadvertently linked to one another and from a staged social media team up comes the beginnings of a real life connection.
I adored the chemistry and the definition in the characters, both main and supporting. Faber's care over her story pours out of her words and you cannot help but become completely absorbed in Liv and Raisa’s world. It is worth noting that this is book two in the ‘Suckerpunch’ series and can be read as a standalone but I for one will be going back to part one because Faber’s style is seriously addictive. I cannot wait to see what’s coming up in her next instalment and I am so excited to have found a brilliant new addition to my sapphic romance collection.
Disclaimer I know nothing about wrestling and that did not impact my enjoyment of this romance whatsoever. Faber writes with such flow and ease that although as a reader you are thrown into the world of wrestling you definitely do not feel like an outsider. I think that’s some of the beauty in the setting that Faber constructs within her writing; you and the protagonist, Liv, are quickly enveloped into the Beatcave family.
Liv is one of the sweetest characters I have read in a long time because even though life has not always been good to her she still tries to see the good in the little things. We meet her at her hardest moment; her mother throws her out and she loses her job, both through no fault of her own but from her pain she chooses to take a risk on something just for her and her life completely changes.
Liv’s audition at the Beatcave wrestling club leads her to meet Raisa, a moody but stunning young woman that Liv cannot help but be drawn towards. Both of these women are competitors for a professional contract but from day one they are inadvertently linked to one another and from a staged social media team up comes the beginnings of a real life connection.
I adored the chemistry and the definition in the characters, both main and supporting. Faber's care over her story pours out of her words and you cannot help but become completely absorbed in Liv and Raisa’s world. It is worth noting that this is book two in the ‘Suckerpunch’ series and can be read as a standalone but I for one will be going back to part one because Faber’s style is seriously addictive. I cannot wait to see what’s coming up in her next instalment and I am so excited to have found a brilliant new addition to my sapphic romance collection.
February 28, 2025
4.5/5
This novel was truly a step up from the first in the series!
This time, we follow Liv and Raisa as the protagonists, and their dynamic—rich girl, poor grumpy, sunshine—was absolutely delightful. I was immediately hooked! It’s clear that Kayla Faber’s writing has grown and improved with each book, and this one really tackles some much deeper and more difficult themes, such as homelessness, and self-harm. These heavier topics added an extra layer of depth to the story that wasn’t present in volume 1, and I loved how they were approached with sensitivity and care.
One aspect I particularly appreciated was Liv’s character. Her struggles and experiences felt so authentic and were portrayed with such nuance. It was refreshing to see Liv and Raisa integrated into the group, and I loved watching them navigate their individual challenges together. The relationship between Liv and Raisa developed beautifully—there were a couple of bumps along the way, but they never came off as toxic; rather, it was all rooted in miscommunication. It felt realistic and relatable, and their growth together was heartwarming.
I also enjoyed Liv’s dynamic with Roxie, Fiona, and Declan—each relationship added depth to the story, and I found myself invested in all of their journeys. Overall, I blew through this book because I couldn’t put it down!
This novel was truly a step up from the first in the series!
This time, we follow Liv and Raisa as the protagonists, and their dynamic—rich girl, poor grumpy, sunshine—was absolutely delightful. I was immediately hooked! It’s clear that Kayla Faber’s writing has grown and improved with each book, and this one really tackles some much deeper and more difficult themes, such as homelessness, and self-harm. These heavier topics added an extra layer of depth to the story that wasn’t present in volume 1, and I loved how they were approached with sensitivity and care.
One aspect I particularly appreciated was Liv’s character. Her struggles and experiences felt so authentic and were portrayed with such nuance. It was refreshing to see Liv and Raisa integrated into the group, and I loved watching them navigate their individual challenges together. The relationship between Liv and Raisa developed beautifully—there were a couple of bumps along the way, but they never came off as toxic; rather, it was all rooted in miscommunication. It felt realistic and relatable, and their growth together was heartwarming.
I also enjoyed Liv’s dynamic with Roxie, Fiona, and Declan—each relationship added depth to the story, and I found myself invested in all of their journeys. Overall, I blew through this book because I couldn’t put it down!
August 3, 2024
Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this one soooo much omg.
I instantly fell in love with Liv. She’s the kind of character who deserves so much better and I just wanted to look after her right away. She’s neurodivergent, anxious as hell, and has never had a support system. I was so excited to watch things get better for her (because I knew they would - this is Kayla Faber after all).
Raisa is the best grumpy love interest. She’s all cool, hard exterior but inside she’s so freaking soft and I love her so much. Both these characters are so fierce and passionate and wonderful and I loved them together.
The found family from the first Sucker Punch book carried over into this one with plenty of familiar faces. Every one of these characters warm my heart and I loved getting to hang out with them again. The way they all rallied around Liv and taught her how to let herself accept help and love gave me all the soft gooey feels.
If you’re looking for feel-good romances, look no further than this series. I can’t wait to read book three!
I loved this one soooo much omg.
I instantly fell in love with Liv. She’s the kind of character who deserves so much better and I just wanted to look after her right away. She’s neurodivergent, anxious as hell, and has never had a support system. I was so excited to watch things get better for her (because I knew they would - this is Kayla Faber after all).
Raisa is the best grumpy love interest. She’s all cool, hard exterior but inside she’s so freaking soft and I love her so much. Both these characters are so fierce and passionate and wonderful and I loved them together.
The found family from the first Sucker Punch book carried over into this one with plenty of familiar faces. Every one of these characters warm my heart and I loved getting to hang out with them again. The way they all rallied around Liv and taught her how to let herself accept help and love gave me all the soft gooey feels.
If you’re looking for feel-good romances, look no further than this series. I can’t wait to read book three!
April 9, 2024
This was such a step up from the previous book. I was super happy being back into this world again with these wonderful and hilarious cast of characters.
The addition of Liv,Raisa, and Blair to the Beatcave was super entertaining. We now see into the world of the new recruits how they aclimate and adjust to this exciting and new place that is Beatcave. It was a shift away from Pam and the other characters that have operated Beatcave for a long time. This had a slightly different perspective from the first and i loved every bit of it.
It takes time explaining Liv's circumstances and trauma, and i feel like the characters were better developed than the previous book. I felt connected to Liv.
The romance factor was also so sickeningly sweet.
The dynamic between Liv and Raisa was the grumpy x sunshine trope, which i loved reading.
This was more of a slow burn, and the romantic feelings were properly developed. This included with the found family trope?? I was done for.
The writing was top-notch as usual, and i thoroughly enjoyed this.
5 stars.
The addition of Liv,Raisa, and Blair to the Beatcave was super entertaining. We now see into the world of the new recruits how they aclimate and adjust to this exciting and new place that is Beatcave. It was a shift away from Pam and the other characters that have operated Beatcave for a long time. This had a slightly different perspective from the first and i loved every bit of it.
It takes time explaining Liv's circumstances and trauma, and i feel like the characters were better developed than the previous book. I felt connected to Liv.
The romance factor was also so sickeningly sweet.
The dynamic between Liv and Raisa was the grumpy x sunshine trope, which i loved reading.
This was more of a slow burn, and the romantic feelings were properly developed. This included with the found family trope?? I was done for.
The writing was top-notch as usual, and i thoroughly enjoyed this.
5 stars.
March 13, 2023
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Although it took me a second to get into the story, once I found my footing, I was sucked in. I'm also obsessed with Raisa, so that explains a lot too. I love an opposite's attract story with a grump/sunshine dynamic and I really loved how Liv and Raisa came together. This story does a good job balancing the rough realities of Liv's situation with its sweet romance in a way I found really refreshing. It's a super solid follow up to the first book in the Sucker Punch Universe, and I think fans of the series are going to absolutely adore Raisa and Liv.
Although it took me a second to get into the story, once I found my footing, I was sucked in. I'm also obsessed with Raisa, so that explains a lot too. I love an opposite's attract story with a grump/sunshine dynamic and I really loved how Liv and Raisa came together. This story does a good job balancing the rough realities of Liv's situation with its sweet romance in a way I found really refreshing. It's a super solid follow up to the first book in the Sucker Punch Universe, and I think fans of the series are going to absolutely adore Raisa and Liv.
June 4, 2023
A surprisingly awesome read
This is my first time reading a Kayla Faber book and I wasn’t disappointed. Liv has had a hard life and doesn’t know what love means in any capacity. She decides to go into wrestling hoping that she can have some stability in her life. What she finds is more valuable than just stability. Liv has a hard time letting go of life’s lessons that she basically learned all by herself. In 3 months time she’s shocked how much she has changed and how much she has grown. Love really can help move mountains.
This is my first time reading a Kayla Faber book and I wasn’t disappointed. Liv has had a hard life and doesn’t know what love means in any capacity. She decides to go into wrestling hoping that she can have some stability in her life. What she finds is more valuable than just stability. Liv has a hard time letting go of life’s lessons that she basically learned all by herself. In 3 months time she’s shocked how much she has changed and how much she has grown. Love really can help move mountains.
December 26, 2024
-sooo good honestly loved this even though grumpyxsunshine is not really my thing
-Liv and Raisa were both just like perfect characters to me
-Raisa was literally everything I want out of a love interest for a mc legit perfection - I loved that Liv grew on her so fast and she just went w/ everything she said it was sweet - she was just so sweet to her and I loved it
-The slow burn the angst ugh yes all their little moments together just simply being and feeling had me kicking my feet
-Loved that this book had more Roxie and Fiona content bc I feel like that’s going to fall off in the next books
-I loved Liv’s personality and how much fun she was despite her circumstances I hate when they make characters who have tough childhood hard and depressed like that’s totally valid and they probably are on the inside but I swear the ppl who have it rough usually end up being the most entertaining and sweetest ppl you’ve ever met - also the fact that she just accepted that she loved Raisa pretty quickly was refreshing sometimes ppl don’t need to spend weeks contemplating their love life and I admire that
-Honestly I’m a fan of third act break ups (only if there’s no like “cheating”) so I didn’t mind their little break but just like w/ the last book it was pretty obvious they were gonna keep all three of them
-Kind of left off w/ a cliffhanger on they’re personal lives tho but all my questions about it are probably in the next book but I don’t like that bc what if I don’t want to read the next book lol
-Only problem I had w/ this fr was the whole Agnes and Raisa thing I mean they had to have met when she was a teenager they probably fucked while she was still a teen ager if she barely turned 21 in this and Agnes is like 35 unless I got that wrong?? I didn’t like that at all and all that just to make Raisa good in bed like that was gonna be believable whether or not she slept w/ Agnes in the first place idk I just don’t like unnecessarily pairing off characters like that when it obviously should’ve been a mentorxstudent relationship there
-Would read again probably won’t finish the series tho bc idgaf about the characters they’re about ngl
-Liv and Raisa were both just like perfect characters to me
-Raisa was literally everything I want out of a love interest for a mc legit perfection - I loved that Liv grew on her so fast and she just went w/ everything she said it was sweet - she was just so sweet to her and I loved it
-The slow burn the angst ugh yes all their little moments together just simply being and feeling had me kicking my feet
-Loved that this book had more Roxie and Fiona content bc I feel like that’s going to fall off in the next books
-I loved Liv’s personality and how much fun she was despite her circumstances I hate when they make characters who have tough childhood hard and depressed like that’s totally valid and they probably are on the inside but I swear the ppl who have it rough usually end up being the most entertaining and sweetest ppl you’ve ever met - also the fact that she just accepted that she loved Raisa pretty quickly was refreshing sometimes ppl don’t need to spend weeks contemplating their love life and I admire that
-Honestly I’m a fan of third act break ups (only if there’s no like “cheating”) so I didn’t mind their little break but just like w/ the last book it was pretty obvious they were gonna keep all three of them
-Kind of left off w/ a cliffhanger on they’re personal lives tho but all my questions about it are probably in the next book but I don’t like that bc what if I don’t want to read the next book lol
-Only problem I had w/ this fr was the whole Agnes and Raisa thing I mean they had to have met when she was a teenager they probably fucked while she was still a teen ager if she barely turned 21 in this and Agnes is like 35 unless I got that wrong?? I didn’t like that at all and all that just to make Raisa good in bed like that was gonna be believable whether or not she slept w/ Agnes in the first place idk I just don’t like unnecessarily pairing off characters like that when it obviously should’ve been a mentorxstudent relationship there
-Would read again probably won’t finish the series tho bc idgaf about the characters they’re about ngl
April 22, 2024
This book has definitely landed on my top picks for this year. Ugghh this book was so good that I couldn't put it down. The charaters, there were the ones that you loved but there were also the ones that you hated and felt it in your guts! Liv and Raisa, I could not get enough of their dynamic. The witty banter between them, the understanding and the support, it was just so brilliantly written that you could really feel the moments between them. I was rooting for Liv the whole time and loved how she found her choosen family. Absoultey worth reading the series!
August 6, 2023
This book gave me so many feels!!! I adore the new girls And I grew to love the characters that we know even more if that’s possible!
December 10, 2023
2.5 Stars
July 1, 2024
The first book was good, this one is perfect! Not so sure if I want Riz or want to be Riz though, that’s tricky
July 19, 2024
If I liked wrestling before now I'm a sucker for it.
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