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Embracing Fate
With everything on the line, will Romero walk away from his dreams for the sake of love? After Maxwell Denton suffered a career ending injury, he was forced to surrender his dream of competing in MMA. He had zero interest in training the new guy, but after going one round with Romero Ruiz, Max knew he’d met his match. Having never been attracted to men, Max and Romero are caught off guard by their explosive chemistry. Their mutual desire burns hotter with each passing day as they navigate the meaning of their newfound passion. Max is willing to risk his heart by walking away from Romero to give him a shot at his dream. But Romero can only choose one title. Welterweight Champion or Max’s lover. Which does he covet most? Embracing Fate is a gay contemporary sports romance featuring bisexual awakenings, first times, and some laugh-out-loud awkward sexy adventures.
209 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 27, 2023
57 people are currently reading
219 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
July 28, 2023
✰ 4.5 stars ✰
ilovethemilovethemilovethemilovethemilovethemilovethemilovethemilovethemilovethem 🥲
rome and max have my whole heart. i absolutely loved their relationship progression. the switch from strangers to friends to lovers was perfect. i was a bit nervous with this being just over 200 pages that it would be instalove and their shift from friends to something more would be rushed, but that did not happen here! they did realize fairly early that there was feelings there but they had such a genuine connection as friends first that i wasn't surprised they started feeling the way they did when they did. it was quick but not too quick where it felt unnatural. their chemistry, how they bonded over similar things, the cuddling, how they didn't really deny their feelings, the communication, the double sexual exploration, just everything and their whole dynamic was amazing. 🥹
when they realized they wanted more, they went for it. there was no bullshit relationship drama. no miscommunication, they communicated in a mature HEALTHY way, and there was NO third act breakup. how amazing is that? they had very realistic obstacles with the main one being that rome is trying to enter the UFC which means not being able to see max as much, having to hide their relationship from the public, and how it doesn't seem possible for rome to have his dream and the love of his life at the same time....which was honestly valid reasons for worrying but there was no "i can't like him bc i'm not gay" "how can i like a guy?" "i don't do love or relationships" and all that stuff i see a lot in books. i mean i love the push and pull with that, but it's refreshing to read about two people who like each other just go for it. i just adored seeing them explore uncharted territory together. 🥹
okay now i need to talk about the smut bc omg???
PAPI??? rome called max papi and i basically malfunctioned every time it happened. i was not expecting that but i loveddddd it, so that was a hot surprise. and the sex scenes? i don't normally like high heat books bc i tend to get bored and just want to get along with the story but that was not the case here. them exploring things sexually was a part of the plot so maybe that's why i enjoyed it so much. but still, i was already waiting for the next scene once i finished one which is really odd for me. their emotional connection was so strong already so that's also why it probably didn't bother me that much. they were just so hot.
so while this was low angst, there was not a dull moment. i read this in one sitting bc i needed to see their HEA right away. and what a HEA it was. it was literally perfect for them, and turned out to be exactly what they wanted/needed.
what to expect:
🥊 double bi-awakening
🥊 coach/trainer
🥊 sports romance (mma, mixed marital arts)
🥊 strangers to friends to lovers
🥊 soulmate energy
🥊 pet name's papi and papito 😍
🥊 amazing side characters (rome's relationship with his abuela was sweet af)
🥊 spicyyyyyy
🥊 low angst
“Eres el amor de mi vida, Papi. You are the love of my life.”
“Eres mi vida, Papito. You are my life.”
ilovethemilovethemilovethemilovethemilovethemilovethemilovethemilovethemilovethem 🥲
rome and max have my whole heart. i absolutely loved their relationship progression. the switch from strangers to friends to lovers was perfect. i was a bit nervous with this being just over 200 pages that it would be instalove and their shift from friends to something more would be rushed, but that did not happen here! they did realize fairly early that there was feelings there but they had such a genuine connection as friends first that i wasn't surprised they started feeling the way they did when they did. it was quick but not too quick where it felt unnatural. their chemistry, how they bonded over similar things, the cuddling, how they didn't really deny their feelings, the communication, the double sexual exploration, just everything and their whole dynamic was amazing. 🥹
Everything about him belonged to Max in that moment. He was fully surrendering himself. So deeply in lust. So deeply in love. The lines blurring and warping until there was no longer any distinction between the lust in his body and mind and the love in his heart and soul. It fused into every tissue and fiber of his being, making him entirely whole, and he gave himself entirely to Max. He gave him everything he had to give.
when they realized they wanted more, they went for it. there was no bullshit relationship drama. no miscommunication, they communicated in a mature HEALTHY way, and there was NO third act breakup. how amazing is that? they had very realistic obstacles with the main one being that rome is trying to enter the UFC which means not being able to see max as much, having to hide their relationship from the public, and how it doesn't seem possible for rome to have his dream and the love of his life at the same time....which was honestly valid reasons for worrying but there was no "i can't like him bc i'm not gay" "how can i like a guy?" "i don't do love or relationships" and all that stuff i see a lot in books. i mean i love the push and pull with that, but it's refreshing to read about two people who like each other just go for it. i just adored seeing them explore uncharted territory together. 🥹
okay now i need to talk about the smut bc omg???
“I can’t imagine anything feeling better than this,” Max murmured in his ear. “I will never, ever, get enough of you.” Romero tried to squirm, but Max held him still. “Where are you going, Rome? You’re going to lie still and take my cock. Isn’t that what you want?”
Romero nodded frantically. “Please, Papi.”
PAPI??? rome called max papi and i basically malfunctioned every time it happened. i was not expecting that but i loveddddd it, so that was a hot surprise. and the sex scenes? i don't normally like high heat books bc i tend to get bored and just want to get along with the story but that was not the case here. them exploring things sexually was a part of the plot so maybe that's why i enjoyed it so much. but still, i was already waiting for the next scene once i finished one which is really odd for me. their emotional connection was so strong already so that's also why it probably didn't bother me that much. they were just so hot.
so while this was low angst, there was not a dull moment. i read this in one sitting bc i needed to see their HEA right away. and what a HEA it was. it was literally perfect for them, and turned out to be exactly what they wanted/needed.
“I’m thinking that I want this for the rest of my life. I want us to be forever.”🥹🥹🥹
what to expect:
🥊 double bi-awakening
🥊 coach/trainer
🥊 sports romance (mma, mixed marital arts)
🥊 strangers to friends to lovers
🥊 soulmate energy
🥊 pet name's papi and papito 😍
🥊 amazing side characters (rome's relationship with his abuela was sweet af)
🥊 spicyyyyyy
🥊 low angst
July 29, 2023
4/5 stars
I loved this. Everything just spoke to me. Max and Rome were adorable together. They had me giggling so much. I loved how they explored their relationship. They had so much fun and it made it so much more adorable like ahhhhh. I was just head over heels in love with them.
Their communication though amazing. Literally fantastic. I love how even though they wanted ti explore they gave each other an out because they value their friendship over anything. It’s so refreshing to see a couple actually cate about their relationship working out in the long run. Anytime one of them had a problem they would talk through it and it just made me so happy, you know?
Spanish pet names over anything. Them calling each other papi and papito was everything. I swear this scene has me dying.
While I loved this, I got bored sometimes. It might just be me taking way too many breaks to finish reading it. I also wished their was more exploration. I was expecting a little more only because both of them had never had feeling for any man before. Again it’s just a me thing. For a 200 page book I expected it to be insta-lovey and it was like in between. It can be seen as not though depending on your definition or opinion. I still loved it with all my heart though. 🫶🏽
”You’re my dream, Max. My dream is being loved by you. I’ve never found anything that feels better than that. Fuck fighting. Fuck the UFC. Me and you. We’re a team, remember? Forever, Max.”
“Yeah, forever, Rome.”
I loved this. Everything just spoke to me. Max and Rome were adorable together. They had me giggling so much. I loved how they explored their relationship. They had so much fun and it made it so much more adorable like ahhhhh. I was just head over heels in love with them.
“You aren’t the only one who’s nervous. Do you feel how much you drive me crazy? That’s what you do to me. All I have to do is get close to you or imagine you when I’m alone, and my heart trips over itself to get near you.”
Their communication though amazing. Literally fantastic. I love how even though they wanted ti explore they gave each other an out because they value their friendship over anything. It’s so refreshing to see a couple actually cate about their relationship working out in the long run. Anytime one of them had a problem they would talk through it and it just made me so happy, you know?
“Where are you going, Rome? You’re going to lie still and take my cock. Isn’t that what you want?” Romero nodded frantically.
“Please, Papi.”
“Mmm, I like when you beg me.” Max.
“Tales. Bend over, Papi. I’ll get the lube ready.”
“Fuck no!” Max looked dead serious. Confused, Romero asked,
“But you said you’d try it.”
“I will. I meant, fuck no, you aren’t going to start calling me Papi. You aren’t some barrio bitch, and I’m not your pimp. Babe will do just fine.”
Spanish pet names over anything. Them calling each other papi and papito was everything. I swear this scene has me dying.
They both collapsed into fits of laughter. It was the kind of deep, ugly, snorts of laughter that were similar to how a pig sounds. The kind of hilarity you can only reveal to someone who completely accepts you as you are. Romero fell onto Max, shaking with amusement. Max held him tight, burying his face into Romero’s neck as he chortled.
While I loved this, I got bored sometimes. It might just be me taking way too many breaks to finish reading it. I also wished their was more exploration. I was expecting a little more only because both of them had never had feeling for any man before. Again it’s just a me thing. For a 200 page book I expected it to be insta-lovey and it was like in between. It can be seen as not though depending on your definition or opinion. I still loved it with all my heart though. 🫶🏽
“I think it’s sexy, and so are you. So, it fits. You’re my Papi, and I’m your babe. Now take your pants off.”
July 22, 2023
**ARC Copy***
I read this story when it was under another name last year...and I completely loved it and Max and Rome became my favorite Raquel couple...I got the joy of being able to read the new edited version and gah I knew i love their story...but my God it was even better the second go around..and i just love them even more...their chemistry is so perfect...and from the moment they met they felt this thing that they could not explain...both had only ever been attracted to women...but there is just something about the other that calls to each of them..these two men that are so similar in ways and they connect only in ways soulmates do...and while Max trains Rome that connection gets deeper and scares them but also excites them...watching them learn and explore their new found intimacy is hilarious but also so freaking hot...facing the possible new life of being in the spotlight and having to hide their love because of being queer and a MMA fighter..it is definitely a book that shows you even though you have a certain dream going in...life comes in and changes that dream to something you didn't think was ever possible..
I read this story when it was under another name last year...and I completely loved it and Max and Rome became my favorite Raquel couple...I got the joy of being able to read the new edited version and gah I knew i love their story...but my God it was even better the second go around..and i just love them even more...their chemistry is so perfect...and from the moment they met they felt this thing that they could not explain...both had only ever been attracted to women...but there is just something about the other that calls to each of them..these two men that are so similar in ways and they connect only in ways soulmates do...and while Max trains Rome that connection gets deeper and scares them but also excites them...watching them learn and explore their new found intimacy is hilarious but also so freaking hot...facing the possible new life of being in the spotlight and having to hide their love because of being queer and a MMA fighter..it is definitely a book that shows you even though you have a certain dream going in...life comes in and changes that dream to something you didn't think was ever possible..
July 23, 2023
I am a big fan of MMA/UFC fighting, so I was ready to dive into this book and it did not disappoint!!
Max is a former fighter but due to injury he no longer competed, but he kept in shape at his local gym, when the owner approached him about training an up and coming fighter, he decided to give the guy a chance. He soon discovered he was really good and helped put him in contact with the right people to further his career. He also found himself really comfortable around Rome and very drawn to him.
Rome and his brother were raised by their Abuela. Rome had big dreams of being a fighter but he needed a trainer. He met with Max and they clicked straight away. It soon become apparent that he was having mixed feeling towards his new trainer, he was confused because he was straight, right? They started to spend more time together and the connection they had continued to grow, could he really have feelings for a man?
Ahh this book! I loved it! I mean who don’t love a double bi awakening!! These two had an instant connection, that then grew into them both being curious about exploring these new feelings, that In turn grew into lust and exploring each other and finding out what they both liked. They were open and careful with these new feelings and it was great to watch them find their feet considering they both thought they were straight. Lots of spicy times and the toy was especially funny and relatable 😂
There was plenty of training and fights to keep the book on par with a sports romance and I look forward to maybe seeing Aaron get his story!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Content warning in book.
🥊MMA Trainer/fighter
🥊Friends to Lovers
🥊Double Bisexual Awakening
🥊High Heat and Snark
Max is a former fighter but due to injury he no longer competed, but he kept in shape at his local gym, when the owner approached him about training an up and coming fighter, he decided to give the guy a chance. He soon discovered he was really good and helped put him in contact with the right people to further his career. He also found himself really comfortable around Rome and very drawn to him.
Rome and his brother were raised by their Abuela. Rome had big dreams of being a fighter but he needed a trainer. He met with Max and they clicked straight away. It soon become apparent that he was having mixed feeling towards his new trainer, he was confused because he was straight, right? They started to spend more time together and the connection they had continued to grow, could he really have feelings for a man?
Ahh this book! I loved it! I mean who don’t love a double bi awakening!! These two had an instant connection, that then grew into them both being curious about exploring these new feelings, that In turn grew into lust and exploring each other and finding out what they both liked. They were open and careful with these new feelings and it was great to watch them find their feet considering they both thought they were straight. Lots of spicy times and the toy was especially funny and relatable 😂
There was plenty of training and fights to keep the book on par with a sports romance and I look forward to maybe seeing Aaron get his story!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Content warning in book.
🥊MMA Trainer/fighter
🥊Friends to Lovers
🥊Double Bisexual Awakening
🥊High Heat and Snark
January 7, 2024
2.25⭐
This is not the hot wrestling book you might think it's going to be.
No, it's not.
I mean, who doesn't watch wrestling, right? Just a little bit. Just for the bulge. Just for the sweat? Something.
But here I am expecting these intense main characters to not only really wrestle like in my fantasies, but also get amazing sex and that just didn't happen.
The sex was quite good, fine, but the storytelling just killed any kind of vibe this book might've had if it were written just a little bit different.
🟢 Wrestling / MMA
🔵 One mmc biracial, one hispanic
🟣 Double bi-awakening
🟡 Double GFY
🌶️ Spice quite good; both vers
The cover is a bit misleading because there's a white man with a bit of bad photoshop, but actually Max was biracial (black/white) and Romero was hispanic. So the cover really should be something more like
Right?? Or two hot guys wrestling, but I mean, I'd prefer them naked.
MMCs could've had a really sexy, intense story, but the delivery just wasn't there.
The story is told with Romero and Max's POV crossing all the time and usually I don't like that at all, but in this story I think it would've been even more boring if their POV's were separate, so at least that made sure the story had a somewhat good pacing.
Max is a former MMA fighter who got a knee injury, so is now employed in private security, but still continues to train. I got the impression Max was a formidable man, I thought he was this strong alpha male who's going to take in a young Romero, who's a construction worker and loves to fight, but Max and Romero were more like peers at the end of the day, so there isn't any of that dynamic present that I expected from the blurb.
Max and Romero get along right away, they train together, they hang out and the aspects of Max's other job and his background weren't really explained here, I have no idea who Max is, he's just a security guard who apparently doesn't work much and is living at a client's house and enjoying their wealth, that's it.
So Max and Romero become really good friends and eventually want to do more with each other, so they kiss, they hook up and soon enough they're constantly getting together, but Max still sees Romero as a side piece - and then a few paragraphs later he refers to them as a couple. Weird.
The writing of them experiencing this bi-awakening was not that good, the overall writing in general was monotone and stilted, not a cell moved in my mind or body.
"We could flip a coin. I happen to have a quarter in my back pocket." Romero appeared conflicted.
"Or we could have a rational decision about it like real adults. Are you opposed to receiving?" Max arched his brows, waiting for an answer. - When they were deciding who'll top and who'll bottom.
"I will. I meant, fuck no, you aren't going to start calling me Papi. You aren't some barrio bitch, and I'm not your pimp. Babe will do just fine." - When Romero called him Papi when they got intimate.
"You are a sex god, Romero Ruiz."
"And don't you forget it the next time a hot chick walks by." - 🙄
It wasn't happening. The story is completely forgettable and hard to read.
My first wrestling book. Damn.
I wanted to DNF, but I rated it only because the MMCs were kind of sweet and I liked them a little bit, the sex was good, but other than that, this book had nothing going for it.
July 14, 2023
In Embracing Fate, Max, a former UFC fighter, is setup to train Romero "Rome" who has what it takes to become the next big thing. What starts as a trainer and trainee to friends turned lovers with undeniable chemistry. These two are hot and heavy and fall hard for each other. Just when Romero has his dreams in the palm of his hands, he's forced to decide if he wants to pursue his career or a life with his love. I very much enjoyed their journey to their HEA as well as all the side characters. It was a lovable bunch. If you're into double bi-awakenings, and hot, sweaty guys rolling around together in and out of the ring then this is the story for you!
July 14, 2023
Loved this sweet book❤️❤️ Double bi-awakening and exploring together is just so 🔥🔥 Such a sweet couple and great at communicating ❤️ Best friends to lovers❤️ Very little angst, just a lovely and hot story❤️❤️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
August 15, 2024
idk what this was but it pissed me off🙄 all i wrote in my notes for this review was “weak writing and unnatural dialogue and progression” bc i just couldn’t be fucked to waste any more time on this. the povs also changed constantly from paragraph to paragraph like wtf! made it annoying af to read….i now fear trying out another book from this author💀 i’m giving this an extra star just for keeping my attention long enough for me to finish, which is feat, i must admit, bc i’m in the slump of a lifetime😭
July 23, 2023
That was a great read. It felt natural from the first to the last page.
In the world of MMA, two guys find their way to each other’s hearts.
Max is training Romero, both are straight, but can’t deny the enormous chemistry.
They are a perfect fit, so much fun and sexiness, so many firsts, wonderful humor, there are downright hilarious moments.
Their love is growing strong, and Romero is also growing as a fighter, with Max by his side.
Max knows if needed he’ll step down because of Romero’s career, he will not be the one to stand in his way.
Let’s just say the world of fighting is ruthless.
Gosh, what a great story, my heart did strange things, Max and Romero are everything.
I loved the strong connection, and how they made it work on their own.
Thank you lord (author) there was no unnecessary drama, it felt all so natural.
Look out to the awesome secondary characters!
Overall a wonderfully written story!
In the world of MMA, two guys find their way to each other’s hearts.
Max is training Romero, both are straight, but can’t deny the enormous chemistry.
They are a perfect fit, so much fun and sexiness, so many firsts, wonderful humor, there are downright hilarious moments.
Their love is growing strong, and Romero is also growing as a fighter, with Max by his side.
Max knows if needed he’ll step down because of Romero’s career, he will not be the one to stand in his way.
Let’s just say the world of fighting is ruthless.
Gosh, what a great story, my heart did strange things, Max and Romero are everything.
I loved the strong connection, and how they made it work on their own.
Thank you lord (author) there was no unnecessary drama, it felt all so natural.
Look out to the awesome secondary characters!
Overall a wonderfully written story!
July 22, 2023
When I saw this was MMA sport fighting and double Bi-awakening, I knew I just HAD to try this #ARC! Read it in 5hrs.
This is a MMA sports MM romance where Max (ex-MMA player) trains Romero (knows MMA fighting, but wants to go pro). Spanish rep 🙌. During their spars & Hang outs, they become friends with that spark from the start - which eventually leads to more!
Both were total virgins regarding anything gay (or Pan ;-) but I LOVE that they talk through the issues like adults. There's little angst due to the initial push/pull & reactions expectations but it's minimum. Loved their fam & friends! Honestly, this was one of the smoothest relationship I've read (To the point I wanted a lil angst - Not really >.<).
The sports aspect is good, only the main parts are shown & it doesn't overpower the story. The sexy scenes are hotttt, ya baby Love me a vers couple! 🔥🔥🥰
—We run after some dreams, while we form another we actually wanna live—me after this book 😏.
It's in 3rd person pronouns, I've read many of those, but this one's POV style was a bit different, omnipresent sometimes (like POV changes for a few para) which took a little while getting used. But then it was pretty enjoyable!
I rooted for the couple & need to check out the others! Ending was what I expected & I'm happy with it 🥰.
Longer review soon!
Story ratings:
POV: 3rd person, Multiple (Mostly Dual) POV
1) The Characters: 5/5
2) Top 3 feels: cute, ooh, yay!
3) Story enjoyment: 5/5
4) Creativity & Conflicts: 4.3/5
5) World build: 4.5/5
6) Relationship: 5/5
7) Steamy scenes: 3.5/5
8) Levels: Cute+Swoon: 4.7/5
Angst: 1.5/5
Dark: 1.5/5
9) Writing style & pace: 4.2/5
10) Grammar: 4.8/5
This is a MMA sports MM romance where Max (ex-MMA player) trains Romero (knows MMA fighting, but wants to go pro). Spanish rep 🙌. During their spars & Hang outs, they become friends with that spark from the start - which eventually leads to more!
Both were total virgins regarding anything gay (or Pan ;-) but I LOVE that they talk through the issues like adults. There's little angst due to the initial push/pull & reactions expectations but it's minimum. Loved their fam & friends! Honestly, this was one of the smoothest relationship I've read (To the point I wanted a lil angst - Not really >.<).
The sports aspect is good, only the main parts are shown & it doesn't overpower the story. The sexy scenes are hotttt, ya baby Love me a vers couple! 🔥🔥🥰
—We run after some dreams, while we form another we actually wanna live—me after this book 😏.
It's in 3rd person pronouns, I've read many of those, but this one's POV style was a bit different, omnipresent sometimes (like POV changes for a few para) which took a little while getting used. But then it was pretty enjoyable!
I rooted for the couple & need to check out the others! Ending was what I expected & I'm happy with it 🥰.
Longer review soon!
Story ratings:
POV: 3rd person, Multiple (Mostly Dual) POV
1) The Characters: 5/5
2) Top 3 feels: cute, ooh, yay!
3) Story enjoyment: 5/5
4) Creativity & Conflicts: 4.3/5
5) World build: 4.5/5
6) Relationship: 5/5
7) Steamy scenes: 3.5/5
8) Levels: Cute+Swoon: 4.7/5
Angst: 1.5/5
Dark: 1.5/5
9) Writing style & pace: 4.2/5
10) Grammar: 4.8/5
August 31, 2023
Tropes: double bi/pan-awakening, sports romance
Feels: 2.5/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: no
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content themes: homophobia
Romero is 25 and trying to get into MMA fighting professionally. He works construction on the side. He is close to his brother and abuela.
Max is a retired MMA fighter, sidelined early with a knee injury, currently in the personal protection business, a live in bodyguard.
Max gets asked to train Romero to use his connections to help him break into the professional fighting business. They become quick friends. They are dude bros and had never been attracted to men before, but quickly find themselves attracted to each other. They start living out of each other's pockets, hanging out all the time, sleeping over at each other's places. They get together pretty fast and very soon they're boyfriends talking love and coming out. But if Romero wants to pursue an MMA career, he needs to stay in the closet because the industry is homophobic and he won't be around much because of traveling for fights, so he won't be able to be with Max much. What will he choose?
This was an okay story but I didn't really love it. I didn't really love Max or Romero as characters, and their relationship just seemed fast and out of nowhere. It came off kind of stilted in how their story was told. Also the story was told as dual POV but the perspective switched regularly throughout any given chapter. So it was a little tough initially to catch whose POV it was focusing on sentence to sentence. I've realized I prefer my dual POV reads having one chapter at a time for each character's perspective.
They're also a bunch of things they did that didn't really make sense. Like, Romero making a comment about in hot bruising his face, you're in MMA, you're going to get all the bruises! And them both inviting friends to tag along on a get together they are having so that they will have a chaperone and won't be tempted by each other but then they don't even try to not hook up, at the first opportunity they're sneaking off and covertly hooking up. And Max isn't very well off, Romero supposed to be paying him for training, and Max lives in the home of his boss/friend, yet Max makes extravagant purchases to support / spoil Romero. Just wasn't very natural.
Some notable moments:
"He couldn’t imagine the amount of courage it must take to reveal yourself to your family as a teenager, when you were unsure about everything in life, except who you were attracted to. Romero thought it must be terrifying. He studied his brother as Rodrigo finished off his sandwich and started on a pack of peanut butter crackers. I hope you still love me when I tell you who I really am."
"“My grandmother is going to kick your ass. If you thought you had it coming before, you just wait, my man. You haven’t seen anything yet.” Rodrigo casually left that threat there as he exited the elevator. Romero tossed Max a ridiculous grin before he followed his brother. “Wait, Rome! You’ve got me, right? You really think she’ll hurt me? Guys, wait up!” Max jogged after them as they made their way into the breakfast room."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 2.5/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: no
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content themes: homophobia
Romero is 25 and trying to get into MMA fighting professionally. He works construction on the side. He is close to his brother and abuela.
Max is a retired MMA fighter, sidelined early with a knee injury, currently in the personal protection business, a live in bodyguard.
Max gets asked to train Romero to use his connections to help him break into the professional fighting business. They become quick friends. They are dude bros and had never been attracted to men before, but quickly find themselves attracted to each other. They start living out of each other's pockets, hanging out all the time, sleeping over at each other's places. They get together pretty fast and very soon they're boyfriends talking love and coming out. But if Romero wants to pursue an MMA career, he needs to stay in the closet because the industry is homophobic and he won't be around much because of traveling for fights, so he won't be able to be with Max much. What will he choose?
This was an okay story but I didn't really love it. I didn't really love Max or Romero as characters, and their relationship just seemed fast and out of nowhere. It came off kind of stilted in how their story was told. Also the story was told as dual POV but the perspective switched regularly throughout any given chapter. So it was a little tough initially to catch whose POV it was focusing on sentence to sentence. I've realized I prefer my dual POV reads having one chapter at a time for each character's perspective.
They're also a bunch of things they did that didn't really make sense. Like, Romero making a comment about in hot bruising his face, you're in MMA, you're going to get all the bruises! And them both inviting friends to tag along on a get together they are having so that they will have a chaperone and won't be tempted by each other but then they don't even try to not hook up, at the first opportunity they're sneaking off and covertly hooking up. And Max isn't very well off, Romero supposed to be paying him for training, and Max lives in the home of his boss/friend, yet Max makes extravagant purchases to support / spoil Romero. Just wasn't very natural.
Some notable moments:
"He couldn’t imagine the amount of courage it must take to reveal yourself to your family as a teenager, when you were unsure about everything in life, except who you were attracted to. Romero thought it must be terrifying. He studied his brother as Rodrigo finished off his sandwich and started on a pack of peanut butter crackers. I hope you still love me when I tell you who I really am."
"“My grandmother is going to kick your ass. If you thought you had it coming before, you just wait, my man. You haven’t seen anything yet.” Rodrigo casually left that threat there as he exited the elevator. Romero tossed Max a ridiculous grin before he followed his brother. “Wait, Rome! You’ve got me, right? You really think she’ll hurt me? Guys, wait up!” Max jogged after them as they made their way into the breakfast room."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
dnf
July 31, 2023DNF 20% Or was it earlier? Meh, who cares. Too quick with the touching each other and the dialogue felt off. Second book by this author with the same issues I dislike, so I think this author is not for me.
dnf-nope
January 17, 2025Dnf @ 11%
I have read this author before and LOVED those books, but I struggled to make it two chapters in to this book. The writing (as much as I hate to say it because I did enjoy this author’s writing in the past) was bad. The dialogue felt so unnatural and there were way too many time skips. The book started off with one MMC taking a shower and getting interrupted by his (boss?) asking to train someone. Why did we have to start off the story with such an unbelievable scene?!😭😭 I truly don’t think this guy would just waltz in on one of our MMCs taking a shower just to ask him to train another client. Couldn’t this boss wait until AFTER the MMC was done with the shower? Then the second time our main characters meet, one of them brings up the topic about how he doesn’t hook up with girls often😭 YOU JUST MET THIS GUY! WHY ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT YOUR SEX LIFE THE SECOND TIME YOU’VE EVER MET HIM?!! Also, I know this is only 200 something pages but why so fast paced? 😐😐
I have read this author before and LOVED those books, but I struggled to make it two chapters in to this book. The writing (as much as I hate to say it because I did enjoy this author’s writing in the past) was bad. The dialogue felt so unnatural and there were way too many time skips. The book started off with one MMC taking a shower and getting interrupted by his (boss?) asking to train someone. Why did we have to start off the story with such an unbelievable scene?!😭😭 I truly don’t think this guy would just waltz in on one of our MMCs taking a shower just to ask him to train another client. Couldn’t this boss wait until AFTER the MMC was done with the shower? Then the second time our main characters meet, one of them brings up the topic about how he doesn’t hook up with girls often😭 YOU JUST MET THIS GUY! WHY ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT YOUR SEX LIFE THE SECOND TIME YOU’VE EVER MET HIM?!! Also, I know this is only 200 something pages but why so fast paced? 😐😐
July 17, 2023
'He felt a chemistry with Max that went deeper than physical attraction.'
I recently finished reading Raquel Riley's upcoming release, Embracing Fate, and I absolutely loved it!!
Max and Romero are amazing together. I just love these two so much 😍
Embracing Fate is a friends to lovers, double bi-awakening romance, which is sweet, sexy and so funny in places I just laughed out loud so hard 🤣
Max and Romero meet when gym owner, Ricky, approaches Max to train Rome in his pursuit of MMA stardom. Having previously been involved in the sport, Max agrees, but the decision changes both men's lives, as they go from trainer to friends to lovers.
These two are so real. They are just two men who have completely fallen for each other but they don't really have any clue what they are doing, so they are fumbling along, learning together as they go, unexpected pube waxing mishaps and all 🤣 (And yes, I'm laughing again as I write this 🤣) There were other hilarious moments, but no spoilers, you seriously just need to read it, but I nearly died laughing 🤣🤣🤣
In amongst their beautiful romance, is Rome chasing his dreams of making it in the UFC. He just wants to provide for his Abuela - who is fabulous! I love her - and little brother Rodrigo. Making it big in the MMA world is how he plans to do it.
But what happens when his dreams threaten his relationship with the love of his life? Can they survive together? Or will Rome realise that his dream has been standing in front of him all along?
These two guys are so good together. They're romantic, sexy, funny, and sweet. I really hope we see them again someday, so we can catch up with them. And there were some characters that I was drawn to, so I'm hoping for more from this world!! 🥊♥️🥊
Embracing Fate releases on July 27th. Pre-order it now at: https://books2read.com/EmbracingFate
I recently finished reading Raquel Riley's upcoming release, Embracing Fate, and I absolutely loved it!!
Max and Romero are amazing together. I just love these two so much 😍
Embracing Fate is a friends to lovers, double bi-awakening romance, which is sweet, sexy and so funny in places I just laughed out loud so hard 🤣
Max and Romero meet when gym owner, Ricky, approaches Max to train Rome in his pursuit of MMA stardom. Having previously been involved in the sport, Max agrees, but the decision changes both men's lives, as they go from trainer to friends to lovers.
These two are so real. They are just two men who have completely fallen for each other but they don't really have any clue what they are doing, so they are fumbling along, learning together as they go, unexpected pube waxing mishaps and all 🤣 (And yes, I'm laughing again as I write this 🤣) There were other hilarious moments, but no spoilers, you seriously just need to read it, but I nearly died laughing 🤣🤣🤣
In amongst their beautiful romance, is Rome chasing his dreams of making it in the UFC. He just wants to provide for his Abuela - who is fabulous! I love her - and little brother Rodrigo. Making it big in the MMA world is how he plans to do it.
But what happens when his dreams threaten his relationship with the love of his life? Can they survive together? Or will Rome realise that his dream has been standing in front of him all along?
These two guys are so good together. They're romantic, sexy, funny, and sweet. I really hope we see them again someday, so we can catch up with them. And there were some characters that I was drawn to, so I'm hoping for more from this world!! 🥊♥️🥊
Embracing Fate releases on July 27th. Pre-order it now at: https://books2read.com/EmbracingFate
July 25, 2023
The strong chemistry between the MCs was palpable from the start. This was an interesting combination of a sport undoubtedly filled with toxic masculinity and a double bi-awakening. The characters' path of discovery of themselves and each other was low angst and very enjoyable. The side characters were good, especially the grandmother. It was interesting to learn more about a sport I knew little about.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am happy to leave a voluntary review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am happy to leave a voluntary review.
July 26, 2023
When Max starts training the talented protege Romero for a desired career in MMA fighting things quickly turns bicurious for both of them. Feelings they both grovel over, near contact fighting leading to almost kissing and sweaty training sessions build with tension and attraction.
They find a reason to spend more and more time together and finally they explore their bisexuality together figurting out where things go and who it goes into 😏😍
This is written in 3de person POV just so you know. I usually have a hard time getting used to it but I found myself falling into it and forgetting about it.
These two big muscular fighters make it all so sweet and passionate 💋
If you're in the mood for two hot sweaty guys exploring each other this will be right up your alley
Out July 27th
They find a reason to spend more and more time together and finally they explore their bisexuality together figurting out where things go and who it goes into 😏😍
This is written in 3de person POV just so you know. I usually have a hard time getting used to it but I found myself falling into it and forgetting about it.
These two big muscular fighters make it all so sweet and passionate 💋
If you're in the mood for two hot sweaty guys exploring each other this will be right up your alley
Out July 27th
Read
July 20, 2023This is a MMA story with a twist.
Max is an ex MMA fighter who lost his chance but now has a career he enjoys more. He owns a security firm and also is a security guard for Sebastian. This gives him an apartment on an estate with plenty of amenities. Max also maintains his physical shape so when at the gym he gets asked to become a trainer.
Romero is a guy who has wanted to be a successful MMA fighter. He has done what he can to achieve it but is at a place he needs a trainer to help him achieve the next step. Max is the guy for it.
Neither of these guys are gay yet when they meet there is an attraction that neither can explain. Romero’s path to career success is met with a lot of decisions. Their path toward sexual awakening is entertaining and heartwarming. There are a few really good twists to this story and I really enjoyed Romero’s grandmother and the fear she brought to the story.
Max is an ex MMA fighter who lost his chance but now has a career he enjoys more. He owns a security firm and also is a security guard for Sebastian. This gives him an apartment on an estate with plenty of amenities. Max also maintains his physical shape so when at the gym he gets asked to become a trainer.
Romero is a guy who has wanted to be a successful MMA fighter. He has done what he can to achieve it but is at a place he needs a trainer to help him achieve the next step. Max is the guy for it.
Neither of these guys are gay yet when they meet there is an attraction that neither can explain. Romero’s path to career success is met with a lot of decisions. Their path toward sexual awakening is entertaining and heartwarming. There are a few really good twists to this story and I really enjoyed Romero’s grandmother and the fear she brought to the story.
July 18, 2023
I read Romero and Max's story when it was originally released as a part of a double storyline. It was nice reading their story again. It's a double bi-awakening story. Romero is desperate to be a MMA fighter and Max ends up coaching him. Inevitably they grow closer and realise they are attracted to each other and decide to explore this attraction but it becomes clear they have fallen in love but it doesn't come without complications but love always win. I enjoyed reading their story again.
July 18, 2023
Another five star read for Raquel! She packs so much in with her reads and never leaves out the good smexy stuff. I loved this book. She took two very tough MMA fighters and showed us a different side of each of them. Raquel makes you fall in love with each of her characters and become very invested in their lives outcomes. I'm fairly new to the mm romance and she has quickly become one of my favorite authors in this field. I devoured this book so fast and loved every second of these characters lives. I was also very happy that Raquel gave us word definitions of the MMA fighters terms. It helped because I was newbie to this world. The two main characters are swoon worthy and find themselves in a whole different life than they ever thought. They also changed the trajectory of the stereotypes in this mma world. Kuddos to this author she once again opened the eyes of readers and gave us two very loveable characters. And provided a very happy believable ending.
July 22, 2023
I have been waiting for Romero and Max’s story since the author portrayed them in Loving Emma. Max is Sebastian’s bodyguard/friend/driver who suffered an injure that ended his future in boxing. Romero Ruiz is this beautiful latin american who wants to be the best boxer and well Ricky (secretly a matchmaker 😆) ask Max to train Romero😏😏🔥
The author truly wrote a beautiful and captivating story about bi-awakening and realizing that sometimes our dream is right in front of us.
I loved Mimi and how protective she is about her children (shes their grandma but she raised them). I love how the author truly researched latin culture. I felt really proud of her (I’m puerto rican) and how she represented grandmothers and el cafecito 💖🔥
Hope that the author blesses us with Aaron’s story and Rodrigo’s. 🫰🏻🫰🏻
The author truly wrote a beautiful and captivating story about bi-awakening and realizing that sometimes our dream is right in front of us.
I loved Mimi and how protective she is about her children (shes their grandma but she raised them). I love how the author truly researched latin culture. I felt really proud of her (I’m puerto rican) and how she represented grandmothers and el cafecito 💖🔥
Hope that the author blesses us with Aaron’s story and Rodrigo’s. 🫰🏻🫰🏻
August 2, 2023
It was quite obvious that this was originally not released as a standalone story, as there are a lot of characters and relationships that are present that aren’t fully fleshed out in this book. Max and Romero are very well written though, and their story is so sweet. It is a bit of insta-love which isn’t usual in a duel bi-awakening. There were some pretty funny moments too. This is different from the other stories I’ve read from Raquel, but I enjoyed it.
January 18, 2024
I liked the story, the writing style and mc’s were great together.
July 29, 2023
sweet story
This was a good low angst story. I really like Rome and Max. They were so sweet. Max was always there to support Rome to help make his dreams come true.
It had a lovely HEA.
This was a good low angst story. I really like Rome and Max. They were so sweet. Max was always there to support Rome to help make his dreams come true.
It had a lovely HEA.
August 2, 2023
Quick read
This book didn’t take long to read. It had a good story and while it could have been a good story to have more details in it it didn’t take long to read. This is the first book I have read that involves MMA and a MM romance, which I appreciated. It’s such an aggressive and masculine sport you don’t think about any of them being gay/pan/bi etc…A decent read.
This book didn’t take long to read. It had a good story and while it could have been a good story to have more details in it it didn’t take long to read. This is the first book I have read that involves MMA and a MM romance, which I appreciated. It’s such an aggressive and masculine sport you don’t think about any of them being gay/pan/bi etc…A decent read.
July 27, 2023
Another Amazing Story
I really enjoyed reading this story. I got sucked into Max and Rome's story from the start and it never let go. I recommend reading this one.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I really enjoyed reading this story. I got sucked into Max and Rome's story from the start and it never let go. I recommend reading this one.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
July 24, 2023
Max was training Rome to MMA fight. Soon they felt the attraction and both straight men realized they felt something more. This story is all about Rome's climb to the top, his dedication and figuring out what he really wanted the most. Their double bi-awakening was hot with passion and bis honesty with his feelings and self respect was admirable. Another enjoyable winner in Raquel's library. I received a copy of this book and this is my voluntary opinion.
July 23, 2023
Embracing Fate is an MMA fighter romance. Max was an MMA fighter who was delt a career ending injury. Romero had talent so Max becomes his trainer. Both men hae never been attracted to men before so their attraction is a double bi-awakening. The chemistry between these two is off the charts. I love the way Raquel writes her characters because I became invested in them. I loved that the story was fast paced and low angst. I would definitely recommend this book.
September 26, 2023
the book was okay in general, but i feel that the focus was a little not here nor there...
first of all, one of the hero works in security but he doesn't seem like he is working but all the readers know is "he works in security", there isn't much explanation about what he does. then when the side character ask him for a favour to train the other hero to fight, the side character was casually saying to use the other hero for security jobs to work it off etc., but this didn't happen either.
secondly, the bi-awakening of both heroes felt a little quick. like do people discover they are bi that fast? then after this discovery, they seem to be having sex or any other related stuff a lot.
then, the second hero was training to be a professional fighter right from the start but the book ended up with him not pursuing a professional career after all. so, to me is like~ what exactly is the main main focus of the book? the character training to be a pro-fighter? the bi-awakening relationship? like what exactly?
another thing was the pov... the book was written in third pov for both characters, but it didn't seem to differentiate one chapter for one hero, they are kind of jumbled out so i was confused at some points as to who is it referring to now.
first of all, one of the hero works in security but he doesn't seem like he is working but all the readers know is "he works in security", there isn't much explanation about what he does. then when the side character ask him for a favour to train the other hero to fight, the side character was casually saying to use the other hero for security jobs to work it off etc., but this didn't happen either.
secondly, the bi-awakening of both heroes felt a little quick. like do people discover they are bi that fast? then after this discovery, they seem to be having sex or any other related stuff a lot.
then, the second hero was training to be a professional fighter right from the start but the book ended up with him not pursuing a professional career after all. so, to me is like~ what exactly is the main main focus of the book? the character training to be a pro-fighter? the bi-awakening relationship? like what exactly?
another thing was the pov... the book was written in third pov for both characters, but it didn't seem to differentiate one chapter for one hero, they are kind of jumbled out so i was confused at some points as to who is it referring to now.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2023
Romero and Max have held a special place in my heart since their initial release, now, with an update to the original, I was reminded why I fell for these two. The stars aligned perfectly the day they met, and an undeniable connection was formed.
𝙸’𝚖 𝚠𝚎𝚒𝚛𝚍𝚕𝚢 𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚗𝚎𝚍 𝚘𝚗 𝚛𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚗𝚘𝚠.” 𝙽𝚊𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚢, 𝚁𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚛𝚘’𝚜 𝚎𝚢𝚎𝚜 𝚝𝚛𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚕𝚎𝚍 𝚜𝚘𝚞𝚝𝚑 𝚝𝚘 𝙼𝚊𝚡’𝚜 𝚐𝚛𝚘𝚒𝚗.
“𝙳𝚘𝚗’𝚝 𝚕𝚘𝚘𝚔!” 𝙼𝚊𝚡 𝚑𝚒𝚜𝚜𝚎𝚍. “𝚈𝚘𝚞’𝚛𝚎 𝚖𝚊𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚒𝚝 𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚜𝚎.”
I forgot how much I love how their feelings grow organically, and never fought against their impending desires. Their intimacy was hilariously written, the playful bickering and taunting adds to their connection and character development.
I have to say, it is astonishing to see just how much Raquel has grown as an author. Her writing style has improved tremendously and advanced to a completely different level from when she first began. She continues to amaze me with her ability to, though there are still advancements in the world of acceptance needed, write these characters' struggles from the lowest depths, and bring them out unscathed and better informed!
𝐿𝑜𝑜𝓀 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝓂𝑒 𝓌𝒽𝑒𝓃 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝒽𝑒𝒶𝓇 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒷𝑒𝓁𝓁. 𝐼’𝓁𝓁 𝒷𝑒 𝓇𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉 𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒, 𝓌𝒶𝒾𝓉𝒾𝓃𝑔.”
𝙸’𝚖 𝚠𝚎𝚒𝚛𝚍𝚕𝚢 𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚗𝚎𝚍 𝚘𝚗 𝚛𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚗𝚘𝚠.” 𝙽𝚊𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚢, 𝚁𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚛𝚘’𝚜 𝚎𝚢𝚎𝚜 𝚝𝚛𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚕𝚎𝚍 𝚜𝚘𝚞𝚝𝚑 𝚝𝚘 𝙼𝚊𝚡’𝚜 𝚐𝚛𝚘𝚒𝚗.
“𝙳𝚘𝚗’𝚝 𝚕𝚘𝚘𝚔!” 𝙼𝚊𝚡 𝚑𝚒𝚜𝚜𝚎𝚍. “𝚈𝚘𝚞’𝚛𝚎 𝚖𝚊𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚒𝚝 𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚜𝚎.”
I forgot how much I love how their feelings grow organically, and never fought against their impending desires. Their intimacy was hilariously written, the playful bickering and taunting adds to their connection and character development.
I have to say, it is astonishing to see just how much Raquel has grown as an author. Her writing style has improved tremendously and advanced to a completely different level from when she first began. She continues to amaze me with her ability to, though there are still advancements in the world of acceptance needed, write these characters' struggles from the lowest depths, and bring them out unscathed and better informed!
𝐿𝑜𝑜𝓀 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝓂𝑒 𝓌𝒽𝑒𝓃 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝒽𝑒𝒶𝓇 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒷𝑒𝓁𝓁. 𝐼’𝓁𝓁 𝒷𝑒 𝓇𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉 𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒, 𝓌𝒶𝒾𝓉𝒾𝓃𝑔.”
September 7, 2023
This is my first venture into MMA sports romance (though not sports romance in general—love those), and let me just say, I’m so looking forward to reading more! The drama and pace of the fighting and training was excellent. The characters are wonderful. Max is an awesome leading man and Romero is a sweet, but strong counterpart to him. The double-bi-awakening is also a kind of new trope for me as I tend to gravitate toward one character already being part of the LGBTQ+ community. I loved the inclusions of Romero’s culture and his Abuelita is a riot! I hope to see more of her the next book. This is definitely a not-to-be missed story, and can’t wait for more!
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