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Mercy's Angels #2
Fighting Back
Rebecca didn’t do second chances, but apparently her heart didn’t get that memo.
She was all sunshine and sass, until the world shattered her spirit.
Rebecca Donovan had always been a force. Loud, vibrant, stubborn to the bone. But life had a way of grinding even the brightest souls into dust. Struggling to keep her business afloat, fending off family ghosts, and craving a connection that felt more than fleeting, she never expected her breaking point to come in the form of violence.
Charlie Cole had drifted for too long, searching for meaning in the quiet. The only thing that had truly stirred something in him was one unforgettable night with Rebecca, a night ruined by pride, silence, and bad timing. He let her walk away once. He wouldn’t make that mistake again.
When trauma cracks open old wounds and secrets claw their way to the surface, Rebecca and Charlie are forced to confront the truth, love isn't always soft. Sometimes it's forged in pain, carved from chaos, and built with bloody, trembling hands.
This time, she won’t run, and he won’t let her fall alone.
Read Order:
Saving Ella, Book One
Fighting Back, Book Two
Tortured Soul, Book Three
Mother's Love, Book Four
Losing Lola, Book Five
Letting Go, Book Six
She was all sunshine and sass, until the world shattered her spirit.
Rebecca Donovan had always been a force. Loud, vibrant, stubborn to the bone. But life had a way of grinding even the brightest souls into dust. Struggling to keep her business afloat, fending off family ghosts, and craving a connection that felt more than fleeting, she never expected her breaking point to come in the form of violence.
Charlie Cole had drifted for too long, searching for meaning in the quiet. The only thing that had truly stirred something in him was one unforgettable night with Rebecca, a night ruined by pride, silence, and bad timing. He let her walk away once. He wouldn’t make that mistake again.
When trauma cracks open old wounds and secrets claw their way to the surface, Rebecca and Charlie are forced to confront the truth, love isn't always soft. Sometimes it's forged in pain, carved from chaos, and built with bloody, trembling hands.
This time, she won’t run, and he won’t let her fall alone.
Read Order:
Saving Ella, Book One
Fighting Back, Book Two
Tortured Soul, Book Three
Mother's Love, Book Four
Losing Lola, Book Five
Letting Go, Book Six
175 pages, ebook
First published December 1, 2013
46 people are currently reading
768 people want to read
About the author
Kirsty Dallas
23 books763 followersJust a girl who likes to write and stuff
Kirsty Dallas is an internationally acclaimed, bestselling author residing in the picturesque Northern Rivers of NSW, Australia.
Known for her unflinching honesty and masterful character development, Kirsty Dallas weaves stories that delve deep into unsettling themes, skillfully infusing heart-stopping action and a whirlwind of emotions into the pages of her books.
Kirsty's talent extends beyond the written word. She collaborated with renowned Australian director and screenwriter, Chris Sun, serving as a script editor and advisor on the horror feature film, "Boar," a chilling cinematic experience that was signed to Universal Pictures Australia and released to critical acclaim in 2018. Her commitment to the art of storytelling led her to further script editing roles, including Brendan Byrne's haunting thriller, "Our Social Playground," and co-writing "The Possessed," a globally-released sensation in 2022. Kirsty's latest cinematic endeavor, "Dark Moon," sees her once again contributing as a script editor and advisor, as it gears up for pre-production.
Kirsty Dallas continues to captivate readers and filmmakers alike with her passion for storytelling, promising more thrilling tales and cinematic adventures on the horizon.
www.kirstydallasauthor.com
Kirsty Dallas is an internationally acclaimed, bestselling author residing in the picturesque Northern Rivers of NSW, Australia.
Known for her unflinching honesty and masterful character development, Kirsty Dallas weaves stories that delve deep into unsettling themes, skillfully infusing heart-stopping action and a whirlwind of emotions into the pages of her books.
Kirsty's talent extends beyond the written word. She collaborated with renowned Australian director and screenwriter, Chris Sun, serving as a script editor and advisor on the horror feature film, "Boar," a chilling cinematic experience that was signed to Universal Pictures Australia and released to critical acclaim in 2018. Her commitment to the art of storytelling led her to further script editing roles, including Brendan Byrne's haunting thriller, "Our Social Playground," and co-writing "The Possessed," a globally-released sensation in 2022. Kirsty's latest cinematic endeavor, "Dark Moon," sees her once again contributing as a script editor and advisor, as it gears up for pre-production.
Kirsty Dallas continues to captivate readers and filmmakers alike with her passion for storytelling, promising more thrilling tales and cinematic adventures on the horizon.
www.kirstydallasauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
November 30, 2013
Saving Ella, (Book 1 in the Mercy Angels Series) was one of my favourite books last year. Jax and Ella are seriously one of my Favourite couples! I was super excited to get my hands on Fighting Back. I love Kristy's writing style, she is becoming one of my all time fave Authors FAST. Her work with Breeze Of Life, rocked my world.
I really wanted to give this a full 5 stars, but settled on 4. As much as I love Betty Boop Becca and Caveman Cole, I still am completely taken with Jax an Ella. Those two... Swoon! Their interactions in Fighting Back had me wanting to go back and re-read their story.
When independent, strong, an unique Rebecca Donovon is attacked in her own home one night, her perfectly accustomed life is turned up side down. Waking up with a man in her bedroom, Rebecca is able to fight off her attacker, not before he manages to bang her up and threaten to return.
Mercy is called in to the scene to help Rebecca deal. However with her best friend, Ella, away for the week, Mercy calls in Charlie Cole to help her.
I sat on the bathroom floor and felt myself break into a million pieces. The horror of what had happened to me bled deep into my soul and I cried so hard, I though I was going to be sick.
A year ago, Rebecca and Charlie spent one hell of a night together, but with one small misunderstanding they let their stubbornness push each other away, avoiding each other at all costs. However when Rebecca is attacked, Charlie's feelings are bought forward and so is his protectiveness over the one woman who has meant more than anything. Seeing her broken, he vows to protect her at all costs.
There was a time when such things would have sent me running for the hills, but not anymore, not with Rebecca. I'd endure anything for this girl, I'd take her pain, her nightmares, and her fears in a heartbeat. If only it were that easy.
Independence was something that Rebecca was accustomed to, after the attack she finds herself struggling with fear and anger. But Charlie is there every step of the way. Cole is a truly good man.
He makes it his mission to bring the old Rebecca back.
"If you run, Rebecca, I will follow you. If you refuse to take my calls, I will end up on your doorstep and I will demand you hear me out. I won't make the mistake of letting you go again."
Their relationship was not rushed, he was patient and let Rebecca take the lead. Being around Charlie made her want to forget. She trusted him with the task of making her forget. Charlie was so sweet and gentle, you absolutely will swoon over him.
"I want this Charlie, I need you." One of his hands left my waist to slide down between my thighs. As his lips took possession of mine, his hand took possession of me more intimately. I found myself shamelessly riding his hand, and I didn't care how brazen my body had become. Charlie had that effect on me. I found myself comfortable with him, open and willing to be whatever it was that he needed me to be, to take whatever it was I needed from him.
With Rebecca, coming back to herself, it seems the attack is not all she has to worry about, with strange things happening around them, it leaves you wondering, was Rebecca's attack a one off? Or are there other forces at hand....
This series is a showcase of the amazing cast of secondary characters with heartbreaking issues of their own. From Jax and Ella, Mercy and Dave (who are soo super cute) to Lola, who at times is strange but has a sense of sadness surrounding her. And lets not forget Rebecca's sister Emily. There is a list of painful stories yet to be told. Rebecca and Charlie's story had the perfect amount of sweet yet sexy moments that allows you to get to know these amazing characters. I'm eagerly anticipating the next book in this series and the undoubtedly intense read it promises to be.
P.s Braiden is mine!
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December 1, 2013
4 stars
Rebecca and Charlie shared a night together and a year later it took a terrible event to bring them back in each others lives.
This book had an amazing start to the story. Be warned it was difficult to read but it set the scene for the rest of the book and wow the build up to the end!!!
Charlie was a darling, so sweet and caring. Both characters was very likeable.
Overall this book has a similar vibe to book one, I felt it slowed down a bit in the middle but had the right amount of action and steam. I really enjoyed it.
ARC provided by the Author. Thank you.
Quotes subject to change
ARC provided by the Author. Thank you
Rebecca and Charlie shared a night together and a year later it took a terrible event to bring them back in each others lives.
This book had an amazing start to the story. Be warned it was difficult to read but it set the scene for the rest of the book and wow the build up to the end!!!
Charlie was a darling, so sweet and caring. Both characters was very likeable.
If you don't touch my central loving station this instant, I'm going to kick your ass
Overall this book has a similar vibe to book one, I felt it slowed down a bit in the middle but had the right amount of action and steam. I really enjoyed it.
ARC provided by the Author. Thank you.
Quotes subject to change
ARC provided by the Author. Thank you
March 8, 2014
Fear shouldn't dictate us, but sometimes our emotions are held hostage by people who take away our choices. Rebecca's choice was taken away and her life turned upside down. Thankfully, in her world, a modern day warrior existed in the form of Charlie Cole. Holy Hotness!!! Thank goodness for the men in the Mercy's Angels Series.
With a few heart wrenching moments, some laughter and a dash of action, Fighting Back - Mercy's Angels Book 2 will take you on journey that you simply won't be able to put down!
With a few heart wrenching moments, some laughter and a dash of action, Fighting Back - Mercy's Angels Book 2 will take you on journey that you simply won't be able to put down!
December 4, 2013
epic just freaking epic
The protection every child is owed was lost on Ella Munroe. Her tiny body was beaten, bruised, cut and bloodied. And the thing about pain, it demands to be felt……. While I absolutely love the realistic way the book is written, I know it isn't for everyone. It is one of the books that I loved and I WANT everyone else to love it too. Ella was so tormented, it was sometimes hard to read parts of the book. That is the first sign that the author did a wonderful job, making it that real!
The journey of this young girls life was very well put together, the plot was strong as well as the lead. The supporting cast lends just the right amount of love and tough love. The owner of the shelter where Ella winds up is Mercy, hence the name. I liked her because she was the epitome of a strong tough business woman. Who can run a woman's shelter and not be tough?
Ella meets Jax at the shelter, unsure, scared and lonely, he notices her need right away, but recognizes the pain too. Ella doesn't know affection and when faced with some budding friendships, she doesn't know what to do. She never had a friend, confidant, or lover.
This is going to be an amazing series. Since I read Breeze of Life, I liked the author and her style. Although this is not the same type of novel, it shares a lot of the boldness. I applaud her for the realistic way she portrays Ella.
Please Note - this book contains some violence, language that some may find offensive and sexual situations.
“Tonight I saw the entire truth in his eyes, the panic, the fear, the pain, the desire, and the love. He didn’t care if I was too thin, or not thin enough. He didn’t see my scars as ugly, he didn’t want my face
hidden behind layers of makeup. Jax wanted me as I was, broken, flawed and honest. And never before had I been so utterly consumed and owned as I was by Jax.”
The protection every child is owed was lost on Ella Munroe. Her tiny body was beaten, bruised, cut and bloodied. And the thing about pain, it demands to be felt……. While I absolutely love the realistic way the book is written, I know it isn't for everyone. It is one of the books that I loved and I WANT everyone else to love it too. Ella was so tormented, it was sometimes hard to read parts of the book. That is the first sign that the author did a wonderful job, making it that real!
The journey of this young girls life was very well put together, the plot was strong as well as the lead. The supporting cast lends just the right amount of love and tough love. The owner of the shelter where Ella winds up is Mercy, hence the name. I liked her because she was the epitome of a strong tough business woman. Who can run a woman's shelter and not be tough?
Ella meets Jax at the shelter, unsure, scared and lonely, he notices her need right away, but recognizes the pain too. Ella doesn't know affection and when faced with some budding friendships, she doesn't know what to do. She never had a friend, confidant, or lover.
This is going to be an amazing series. Since I read Breeze of Life, I liked the author and her style. Although this is not the same type of novel, it shares a lot of the boldness. I applaud her for the realistic way she portrays Ella.
Please Note - this book contains some violence, language that some may find offensive and sexual situations.
“Tonight I saw the entire truth in his eyes, the panic, the fear, the pain, the desire, and the love. He didn’t care if I was too thin, or not thin enough. He didn’t see my scars as ugly, he didn’t want my face
hidden behind layers of makeup. Jax wanted me as I was, broken, flawed and honest. And never before had I been so utterly consumed and owned as I was by Jax.”
June 29, 2015
3.5 stars.
December 6, 2013
BOOK REVIEW by Michelle 5th December 2013:
RATING: 5 CHARLIE STARS with A BIG SIDE ORDER OF JAX AND AN INTRIGUING ORDER OF BRAIDEN
* waggles eyebrows *
I got to say, I am loving this series. The lads are all humma, humma and the girls are all worthy of the partner Kirsty gives them. It’s like a melding of Maya Banks, Jay Crownover with characters that feel very real, throw in a side order of Lauren Dane. The lads are the strong, protective type with friends who are loyal and true. If you are in trouble, then they will be there on the double.
Rebecca has attracted unwarranted attention and Charlie is the only one who she will let in.
Rebecca has been attacked.
Fiesty, hear-me-roar Rebecca, is now feeling afraid and no longer who she once was. That has been taken away from her.
Hell yeah, I am Rebecca Fucking Donovan, hear me roar! Well, at least I thought I was. My roar now sounded something more like a timid and pathetic whine.
Charlie won’t let that happen. They may have had their misunderstanding in the past, but Charlie wants Rebecca. Rebecca has never given up on her affections for Charlie. She saw Charlie as only a one night stand kind of guy. She didn’t think he was capable of anything more.
This 50’s fasionista needs to claim back who she was and fight her inner demons that are plaguing her nights.
Dressing like a fifties pin-up girl seemed ridiculous now, and I began to see what everyone else saw when they looked at me; a fraud.
Charlie has found someone in Rebecca he thought didn’t exist. He found someone he cared for more than a one night stand. Someone he wanted a forever with.
Charlie grinned. “I guess I should make myself perfectly clear then. You’re not sure what this is? It’s us, you and me, Rebecca and Charlie, Betty Boop, and Caveman Cole. Friends? Always, but this is more, Rebecca. And you should know, I don’t like to share what’s mine, so monogamy has just become my new best friend. The fact that you have a jealous streak makes me ridiculously happy, I like to know that I’m yours. You should also know that only boys make their woman jealous of other women. A real man makes other women jealous of his woman. I intend to make every other woman on the face of this earth insanely jealous of you.”
“Damn, woman. Why does it suddenly feel like I’m the chick in this relationship and you’re the dude?”
Team Charlie.
I am absolutely crushing on this big, beefy fighter. Just roll me about in a Charlie sandwich. I loved him in Saving Ella and I love him even more in Fighting Back. He has such a protective caveman appeal to me. He isn’t too much, he is just right. He has his own skeletons in his closet, but he opened the door for Mercy to help save him. He knows how it feels to need someone who will be your life raft.
“Mercy never let a day go by where she didn’t tell me she loved me, that I was worthy and cherished. She wiped away all the crap my parents fed me, and helped me become the man I am today. Never doubt the power of words, Rebecca, they can help you heal, make you feel whole. Not a day will pass where you won’t hear those kinds of words from me.”
It's his turn to be somebody's life raft.
“No, Betty Boop, you are no heavier than a very warm and pretty blanket.”
His connection with Jax is that of a brother from another mother. They are tight. They behave like brothers. They are loyal to the core. I LOVE their comraderie.
Jax stood in the doorway, actually he more like filled the doorway - I’m fairly certain he’s still growing. In one hand was a bottle of vodka, in the other was Rebecca’s Clitoria. I smirked and nodded to the innocuous looking plant. “You look awkward with that in your hands.”
“Fuck you,” Jax growled.
Shiz is going down and Rebecca’s sister Emily is in trouble.
Deep. Trouble.
It will take all the calendar men to help stop the evil that is preying on Rebecca and Emily.
Jax was wearing nothing but a pair of track pants, sitting dangerously low on his hips, and it took every ounce of self-preservation not to follow the hard, perfect washboard abs down to the magic V that led into the waistband of his pants. The man was scorching hot perfection, but he didn’t make my heart race like Charlie.
What? I just thought I would remind you of what Jaxon Carter looked like.
RawrrrrRRrrrrrrrr...rrrRRRrrrrr
Mercy is the core, motherly strong female character, who is the glue for some of these characters. Her angels come in the form of Jax, Charlie, Dave, Mary...
Although there are serious issues in this series, Kirsty throws in some comic relief that never fails to make me smile. It shows the warmth of these characters as they handle each day that comes with working at the shelter and it shows how far some of these battered women have come, how having these big guys helping out around the shelter puts a smile on their faces. They are a big self made family.
“Where are my muffins, Mary? You don’t want this to get ugly.” I grinned.
She burst out laughing. “Five minutes, Charlie, just five minutes earlier and you’d have your muffins.”
My playful grin disappeared. “Who took my muffins?” I demanded.
She laughed harder. “Ella left just before you came through the back door. Actually, she ran; I think she knew you would be looking for them.”
That cheeky little brat, I thought to myself. I was definitely kidnapping her precious penis cacti next time I dropped by Jax’s. I’d been threatening to unman her cactus for a long time. Now that she had messed with my muffins, that cactus was done for! The girl was going down!
She raised her hands in self-defense. “I only told Jax,” she said, looking slightly nervous.
My gaze moved to Jax. “I only told Mercy.”
I arched an eyebrow at Mercy, and she shrugged. “I only confided in Annie.”
Annie at least had the good grace to look a little shamed. “I only told Dillon,” she whispered, and I groaned.
“No one told me, but I guessed as much,” said Lola.
Bunch of fucking gossips, I rolled my eyes.
But then I met Braiden. The thinker. There is much more to Braiden.
Braiden was a thinker, a deep thinker. He watched, listened, and seemed to see all. Anyone that quiet had to have dark secrets lurking beneath their cool exterior, and I had no doubt Braiden had plenty, but I still trusted him explicitly.
Whahhh!!
* waggles eyebrows *
It will take a special man to help bring Emily back from the life she has lived for too long.
A certain someone appears up for the challenge.
I am looking forward to #3.
Bring. It. On.
Smashing good job , Kirsty!
Michelle
RATING: 5 CHARLIE STARS with A BIG SIDE ORDER OF JAX AND AN INTRIGUING ORDER OF BRAIDEN
* waggles eyebrows *
I got to say, I am loving this series. The lads are all humma, humma and the girls are all worthy of the partner Kirsty gives them. It’s like a melding of Maya Banks, Jay Crownover with characters that feel very real, throw in a side order of Lauren Dane. The lads are the strong, protective type with friends who are loyal and true. If you are in trouble, then they will be there on the double.
Rebecca has attracted unwarranted attention and Charlie is the only one who she will let in.
Rebecca has been attacked.
Fiesty, hear-me-roar Rebecca, is now feeling afraid and no longer who she once was. That has been taken away from her.
Hell yeah, I am Rebecca Fucking Donovan, hear me roar! Well, at least I thought I was. My roar now sounded something more like a timid and pathetic whine.
Charlie won’t let that happen. They may have had their misunderstanding in the past, but Charlie wants Rebecca. Rebecca has never given up on her affections for Charlie. She saw Charlie as only a one night stand kind of guy. She didn’t think he was capable of anything more.
This 50’s fasionista needs to claim back who she was and fight her inner demons that are plaguing her nights.
Dressing like a fifties pin-up girl seemed ridiculous now, and I began to see what everyone else saw when they looked at me; a fraud.
Charlie has found someone in Rebecca he thought didn’t exist. He found someone he cared for more than a one night stand. Someone he wanted a forever with.
Charlie grinned. “I guess I should make myself perfectly clear then. You’re not sure what this is? It’s us, you and me, Rebecca and Charlie, Betty Boop, and Caveman Cole. Friends? Always, but this is more, Rebecca. And you should know, I don’t like to share what’s mine, so monogamy has just become my new best friend. The fact that you have a jealous streak makes me ridiculously happy, I like to know that I’m yours. You should also know that only boys make their woman jealous of other women. A real man makes other women jealous of his woman. I intend to make every other woman on the face of this earth insanely jealous of you.”
“Damn, woman. Why does it suddenly feel like I’m the chick in this relationship and you’re the dude?”
Team Charlie.
I am absolutely crushing on this big, beefy fighter. Just roll me about in a Charlie sandwich. I loved him in Saving Ella and I love him even more in Fighting Back. He has such a protective caveman appeal to me. He isn’t too much, he is just right. He has his own skeletons in his closet, but he opened the door for Mercy to help save him. He knows how it feels to need someone who will be your life raft.
“Mercy never let a day go by where she didn’t tell me she loved me, that I was worthy and cherished. She wiped away all the crap my parents fed me, and helped me become the man I am today. Never doubt the power of words, Rebecca, they can help you heal, make you feel whole. Not a day will pass where you won’t hear those kinds of words from me.”
It's his turn to be somebody's life raft.
“No, Betty Boop, you are no heavier than a very warm and pretty blanket.”
His connection with Jax is that of a brother from another mother. They are tight. They behave like brothers. They are loyal to the core. I LOVE their comraderie.
Jax stood in the doorway, actually he more like filled the doorway - I’m fairly certain he’s still growing. In one hand was a bottle of vodka, in the other was Rebecca’s Clitoria. I smirked and nodded to the innocuous looking plant. “You look awkward with that in your hands.”
“Fuck you,” Jax growled.
Shiz is going down and Rebecca’s sister Emily is in trouble.
Deep. Trouble.
It will take all the calendar men to help stop the evil that is preying on Rebecca and Emily.
Jax was wearing nothing but a pair of track pants, sitting dangerously low on his hips, and it took every ounce of self-preservation not to follow the hard, perfect washboard abs down to the magic V that led into the waistband of his pants. The man was scorching hot perfection, but he didn’t make my heart race like Charlie.
What? I just thought I would remind you of what Jaxon Carter looked like.
RawrrrrRRrrrrrrrr...rrrRRRrrrrr
Mercy is the core, motherly strong female character, who is the glue for some of these characters. Her angels come in the form of Jax, Charlie, Dave, Mary...
Although there are serious issues in this series, Kirsty throws in some comic relief that never fails to make me smile. It shows the warmth of these characters as they handle each day that comes with working at the shelter and it shows how far some of these battered women have come, how having these big guys helping out around the shelter puts a smile on their faces. They are a big self made family.
“Where are my muffins, Mary? You don’t want this to get ugly.” I grinned.
She burst out laughing. “Five minutes, Charlie, just five minutes earlier and you’d have your muffins.”
My playful grin disappeared. “Who took my muffins?” I demanded.
She laughed harder. “Ella left just before you came through the back door. Actually, she ran; I think she knew you would be looking for them.”
That cheeky little brat, I thought to myself. I was definitely kidnapping her precious penis cacti next time I dropped by Jax’s. I’d been threatening to unman her cactus for a long time. Now that she had messed with my muffins, that cactus was done for! The girl was going down!
She raised her hands in self-defense. “I only told Jax,” she said, looking slightly nervous.
My gaze moved to Jax. “I only told Mercy.”
I arched an eyebrow at Mercy, and she shrugged. “I only confided in Annie.”
Annie at least had the good grace to look a little shamed. “I only told Dillon,” she whispered, and I groaned.
“No one told me, but I guessed as much,” said Lola.
Bunch of fucking gossips, I rolled my eyes.
But then I met Braiden. The thinker. There is much more to Braiden.
Braiden was a thinker, a deep thinker. He watched, listened, and seemed to see all. Anyone that quiet had to have dark secrets lurking beneath their cool exterior, and I had no doubt Braiden had plenty, but I still trusted him explicitly.
Whahhh!!
* waggles eyebrows *
It will take a special man to help bring Emily back from the life she has lived for too long.
A certain someone appears up for the challenge.
I am looking forward to #3.
Bring. It. On.
Smashing good job , Kirsty!
Michelle
December 1, 2013
Fighting back review
Wow just another just wow. These books, this series... They are so amazing. They are filled with so much drama and angst and love and sexiness and yuminess, I don't know what to do with myself. The story of Charlie and Rebecca is so heartbreaking but heartwarming at the same time. Is that wierd. I mean there is so much drama, so much fear, is it weird I found their relationship, those love heartwarming? Well I did. Rebecca is this woman who is confident in who she is. She knows who she is, and she doesn't hold anything back. So when something happens to her and she's broken, she has trouble getting back there. But, fuck, who wouldn't. Charlie becomes her protector, her warrior, her strength, her everything. But it's not only Charlie that Rebecca learns she has in her corner. She's not alone fighting this fight, finding her sister. She has Dillon, Braidon, Jax, Ella, Annie, Lola, Dave, Mercy. She has a family. She has people she can count on. People who are there for her no matter what. Maybe that's what I found heartwarming. I don't know. But I also found Braidons reaction to Emily soothing, calming almost. Like I could accept her situation better if Braidon was around. Okay. maybe we can agree I'm a little wierd. But Charlie does the same thing when it comes to Rebecca. He soothes her, as she does him. I love the way this series is written. Every story keeps you so involved and sucked in through every page. You just can't wait to know what happens next. Though I was kinda hoping for a happily ever after. Of course Kirsty is gonna keep me on my toes. Probably peep toe pumps on said toes as well. I give this book 5 stars
Wow just another just wow. These books, this series... They are so amazing. They are filled with so much drama and angst and love and sexiness and yuminess, I don't know what to do with myself. The story of Charlie and Rebecca is so heartbreaking but heartwarming at the same time. Is that wierd. I mean there is so much drama, so much fear, is it weird I found their relationship, those love heartwarming? Well I did. Rebecca is this woman who is confident in who she is. She knows who she is, and she doesn't hold anything back. So when something happens to her and she's broken, she has trouble getting back there. But, fuck, who wouldn't. Charlie becomes her protector, her warrior, her strength, her everything. But it's not only Charlie that Rebecca learns she has in her corner. She's not alone fighting this fight, finding her sister. She has Dillon, Braidon, Jax, Ella, Annie, Lola, Dave, Mercy. She has a family. She has people she can count on. People who are there for her no matter what. Maybe that's what I found heartwarming. I don't know. But I also found Braidons reaction to Emily soothing, calming almost. Like I could accept her situation better if Braidon was around. Okay. maybe we can agree I'm a little wierd. But Charlie does the same thing when it comes to Rebecca. He soothes her, as she does him. I love the way this series is written. Every story keeps you so involved and sucked in through every page. You just can't wait to know what happens next. Though I was kinda hoping for a happily ever after. Of course Kirsty is gonna keep me on my toes. Probably peep toe pumps on said toes as well. I give this book 5 stars
October 5, 2013
ABSOLUTELY 5 STARS!!! This is a must have, read, can't put down type of book! From the very first chapter Kirsty Dallas has you emerged in the life of Rebecca Donovan and Charlie Cole, wanting more. Even when I wasn't reading Fighting Back the characters were swirling around in my thoughts. Charlie Cole, what can I say except sorry Rebecca, HIS MINE! What a swoon worthy, my new book boyfriend, perfect in every way, type of guy. How can anyone not fall in love with him. And Rebecca is strong, sassy and original. I freaking love her on the cover. I freaking LOVE the cover. From Chapter One Kirsty had me captivated and at Chapter Two I had a single tear roll down my cheek. There is a perfect balance between romance and action and the story leaves you wondering what is going to happen next. I couldn't stop turning the pages whilst laying in bed, even though my eyes were demanding me to. The story had my heart pounding in my chest as well as doing that fluttery love thing. I only buy my favorite books in paperback and this is definitely a book that I will be getting to go straight to my bookshelf along side of Saving Ella. Thank you Kirsty Dallas for letting me be one of the privileged ones to read it first. You have an amazing way with words! I absolutely can't wait to see what Tortured Soul brings. BRING IT ON!!!
October 3, 2013
Yet another captivating book by talented Kirsty Dallas. From the moment you begin reading your eyes are glued to the page...with every page finished you are left wanting...no, NEEDING more, demanding more!! Written with a good balance of emotion, you'll feel you're living the story! Awesome job yet again Kirsty Dallas xxx
March 9, 2016
Fighting Back (Mercy's Angels #2) by Kirsty Dallas
Another great read in the Mercy's Angels series.
This story is about Rebecca and Charlie who we met in Saving Ella.
Another fantastic read, well written, great story and now I continue on to book 3 Tortured Soul (Mercy's Angels, #3)
Great Series and I really enjoy Kirsty Dallas writing.
Another great read in the Mercy's Angels series.
This story is about Rebecca and Charlie who we met in Saving Ella.
Another fantastic read, well written, great story and now I continue on to book 3 Tortured Soul (Mercy's Angels, #3)
Great Series and I really enjoy Kirsty Dallas writing.
February 19, 2014
4.5 stars I can't wait for Emily and Braiden's story now
December 6, 2013
BOOK REVIEW by Michelle 5th December 2013:
RATING: 5 CHARLIE STARS with A BIG SIDE ORDER OF JAX AND AN INTRIGUING ORDER OF BRAIDEN
* waggles eyebrows *
I got to say, I am loving this series. The lads are all humma, humma and the girls are all worthy of the partner Kirsty gives them. It’s like a melding of Maya Banks, Jay Crownover with characters that feel very real, throw in a side order of Lauren Dane. The lads are the strong, protective type with friends who are loyal and true. If you are in trouble, then they will be there on the double.
Rebecca has attracted unwarranted attention and Charlie is the only one who she will let in.
Rebecca has been attacked.
Fiesty, hear-me-roar Rebecca, is now feeling afraid and no longer who she once was. That has been taken away from her.
Hell yeah, I am Rebecca Fucking Donovan, hear me roar! Well, at least I thought I was. My roar now sounded something more like a timid and pathetic whine.
Charlie won’t let that happen. They may have had their misunderstanding in the past, but Charlie wants Rebecca. Rebecca has never given up on her affections for Charlie. She saw Charlie as only a one night stand kind of guy. She didn’t think he was capable of anything more.
This 50’s fasionista needs to claim back who she was and fight her inner demons that are plaguing her nights.
Dressing like a fifties pin-up girl seemed ridiculous now, and I began to see what everyone else saw when they looked at me; a fraud.
Charlie has found someone in Rebecca he thought didn’t exist. He found someone he cared for more than a one night stand. Someone he wanted a forever with.
Charlie grinned. “I guess I should make myself perfectly clear then. You’re not sure what this is? It’s us, you and me, Rebecca and Charlie, Betty Boop, and Caveman Cole. Friends? Always, but this is more, Rebecca. And you should know, I don’t like to share what’s mine, so monogamy has just become my new best friend. The fact that you have a jealous streak makes me ridiculously happy, I like to know that I’m yours. You should also know that only boys make their woman jealous of other women. A real man makes other women jealous of his woman. I intend to make every other woman on the face of this earth insanely jealous of you.”
“Damn, woman. Why does it suddenly feel like I’m the chick in this relationship and you’re the dude?”
Team Charlie.
I am absolutely crushing on this big, beefy fighter. Just roll me about in a Charlie sandwich. I loved him in Saving Ella and I love him even more in Fighting Back. He has such a protective caveman appeal to me. He isn’t too much, he is just right. He has his own skeletons in his closet, but he opened the door for Mercy to help save him. He knows how it feels to need someone who will be your life raft.
“Mercy never let a day go by where she didn’t tell me she loved me, that I was worthy and cherished. She wiped away all the crap my parents fed me, and helped me become the man I am today. Never doubt the power of words, Rebecca, they can help you heal, make you feel whole. Not a day will pass where you won’t hear those kinds of words from me.”
It's his turn to be somebody's life raft.
“No, Betty Boop, you are no heavier than a very warm and pretty blanket.”
His connection with Jax is that of a brother from another mother. They are tight. They behave like brothers. They are loyal to the core. I LOVE their comraderie.
Jax stood in the doorway, actually he more like filled the doorway - I’m fairly certain he’s still growing. In one hand was a bottle of vodka, in the other was Rebecca’s Clitoria. I smirked and nodded to the innocuous looking plant. “You look awkward with that in your hands.”
“Fuck you,” Jax growled.
Shiz is going down and Rebecca’s sister Emily is in trouble.
Deep. Trouble.
It will take all the calendar men to help stop the evil that is preying on Rebecca and Emily.
Jax was wearing nothing but a pair of track pants, sitting dangerously low on his hips, and it took every ounce of self-preservation not to follow the hard, perfect washboard abs down to the magic V that led into the waistband of his pants. The man was scorching hot perfection, but he didn’t make my heart race like Charlie.
What? I just thought I would remind you of what Jaxon Carter looked like.
RawrrrrRRrrrrrrrr...rrrRRRrrrrr
Mercy is the core, motherly strong female character, who is the glue for some of these characters. Her angels come in the form of Jax, Charlie, Dave, Mary...
Although there are serious issues in this series, Kirsty throws in some comic relief that never fails to make me smile. It shows the warmth of these characters as they handle each day that comes with working at the shelter and it shows how far some of these battered women have come, how having these big guys helping out around the shelter puts a smile on their faces. They are a big self made family.
“Where are my muffins, Mary? You don’t want this to get ugly.” I grinned.
She burst out laughing. “Five minutes, Charlie, just five minutes earlier and you’d have your muffins.”
My playful grin disappeared. “Who took my muffins?” I demanded.
She laughed harder. “Ella left just before you came through the back door. Actually, she ran; I think she knew you would be looking for them.”
That cheeky little brat, I thought to myself. I was definitely kidnapping her precious penis cacti next time I dropped by Jax’s. I’d been threatening to unman her cactus for a long time. Now that she had messed with my muffins, that cactus was done for! The girl was going down!
She raised her hands in self-defense. “I only told Jax,” she said, looking slightly nervous.
My gaze moved to Jax. “I only told Mercy.”
I arched an eyebrow at Mercy, and she shrugged. “I only confided in Annie.”
Annie at least had the good grace to look a little shamed. “I only told Dillon,” she whispered, and I groaned.
“No one told me, but I guessed as much,” said Lola.
Bunch of fucking gossips, I rolled my eyes.
But then I met Braiden. The thinker. There is much more to Braiden.
Braiden was a thinker, a deep thinker. He watched, listened, and seemed to see all. Anyone that quiet had to have dark secrets lurking beneath their cool exterior, and I had no doubt Braiden had plenty, but I still trusted him explicitly.
Whahhh!!
* waggles eyebrows *
It will take a special man to help bring Emily back from the life she has lived for too long.
A certain someone appears up for the challenge.
I am looking forward to #3.
Bring. It. On.
Smashing good job , Kirsty!
Michelle
RATING: 5 CHARLIE STARS with A BIG SIDE ORDER OF JAX AND AN INTRIGUING ORDER OF BRAIDEN
* waggles eyebrows *
I got to say, I am loving this series. The lads are all humma, humma and the girls are all worthy of the partner Kirsty gives them. It’s like a melding of Maya Banks, Jay Crownover with characters that feel very real, throw in a side order of Lauren Dane. The lads are the strong, protective type with friends who are loyal and true. If you are in trouble, then they will be there on the double.
Rebecca has attracted unwarranted attention and Charlie is the only one who she will let in.
Rebecca has been attacked.
Fiesty, hear-me-roar Rebecca, is now feeling afraid and no longer who she once was. That has been taken away from her.
Hell yeah, I am Rebecca Fucking Donovan, hear me roar! Well, at least I thought I was. My roar now sounded something more like a timid and pathetic whine.
Charlie won’t let that happen. They may have had their misunderstanding in the past, but Charlie wants Rebecca. Rebecca has never given up on her affections for Charlie. She saw Charlie as only a one night stand kind of guy. She didn’t think he was capable of anything more.
This 50’s fasionista needs to claim back who she was and fight her inner demons that are plaguing her nights.
Dressing like a fifties pin-up girl seemed ridiculous now, and I began to see what everyone else saw when they looked at me; a fraud.
Charlie has found someone in Rebecca he thought didn’t exist. He found someone he cared for more than a one night stand. Someone he wanted a forever with.
Charlie grinned. “I guess I should make myself perfectly clear then. You’re not sure what this is? It’s us, you and me, Rebecca and Charlie, Betty Boop, and Caveman Cole. Friends? Always, but this is more, Rebecca. And you should know, I don’t like to share what’s mine, so monogamy has just become my new best friend. The fact that you have a jealous streak makes me ridiculously happy, I like to know that I’m yours. You should also know that only boys make their woman jealous of other women. A real man makes other women jealous of his woman. I intend to make every other woman on the face of this earth insanely jealous of you.”
“Damn, woman. Why does it suddenly feel like I’m the chick in this relationship and you’re the dude?”
Team Charlie.
I am absolutely crushing on this big, beefy fighter. Just roll me about in a Charlie sandwich. I loved him in Saving Ella and I love him even more in Fighting Back. He has such a protective caveman appeal to me. He isn’t too much, he is just right. He has his own skeletons in his closet, but he opened the door for Mercy to help save him. He knows how it feels to need someone who will be your life raft.
“Mercy never let a day go by where she didn’t tell me she loved me, that I was worthy and cherished. She wiped away all the crap my parents fed me, and helped me become the man I am today. Never doubt the power of words, Rebecca, they can help you heal, make you feel whole. Not a day will pass where you won’t hear those kinds of words from me.”
It's his turn to be somebody's life raft.
“No, Betty Boop, you are no heavier than a very warm and pretty blanket.”
His connection with Jax is that of a brother from another mother. They are tight. They behave like brothers. They are loyal to the core. I LOVE their comraderie.
Jax stood in the doorway, actually he more like filled the doorway - I’m fairly certain he’s still growing. In one hand was a bottle of vodka, in the other was Rebecca’s Clitoria. I smirked and nodded to the innocuous looking plant. “You look awkward with that in your hands.”
“Fuck you,” Jax growled.
Shiz is going down and Rebecca’s sister Emily is in trouble.
Deep. Trouble.
It will take all the calendar men to help stop the evil that is preying on Rebecca and Emily.
Jax was wearing nothing but a pair of track pants, sitting dangerously low on his hips, and it took every ounce of self-preservation not to follow the hard, perfect washboard abs down to the magic V that led into the waistband of his pants. The man was scorching hot perfection, but he didn’t make my heart race like Charlie.
What? I just thought I would remind you of what Jaxon Carter looked like.
RawrrrrRRrrrrrrrr...rrrRRRrrrrr
Mercy is the core, motherly strong female character, who is the glue for some of these characters. Her angels come in the form of Jax, Charlie, Dave, Mary...
Although there are serious issues in this series, Kirsty throws in some comic relief that never fails to make me smile. It shows the warmth of these characters as they handle each day that comes with working at the shelter and it shows how far some of these battered women have come, how having these big guys helping out around the shelter puts a smile on their faces. They are a big self made family.
“Where are my muffins, Mary? You don’t want this to get ugly.” I grinned.
She burst out laughing. “Five minutes, Charlie, just five minutes earlier and you’d have your muffins.”
My playful grin disappeared. “Who took my muffins?” I demanded.
She laughed harder. “Ella left just before you came through the back door. Actually, she ran; I think she knew you would be looking for them.”
That cheeky little brat, I thought to myself. I was definitely kidnapping her precious penis cacti next time I dropped by Jax’s. I’d been threatening to unman her cactus for a long time. Now that she had messed with my muffins, that cactus was done for! The girl was going down!
She raised her hands in self-defense. “I only told Jax,” she said, looking slightly nervous.
My gaze moved to Jax. “I only told Mercy.”
I arched an eyebrow at Mercy, and she shrugged. “I only confided in Annie.”
Annie at least had the good grace to look a little shamed. “I only told Dillon,” she whispered, and I groaned.
“No one told me, but I guessed as much,” said Lola.
Bunch of fucking gossips, I rolled my eyes.
But then I met Braiden. The thinker. There is much more to Braiden.
Braiden was a thinker, a deep thinker. He watched, listened, and seemed to see all. Anyone that quiet had to have dark secrets lurking beneath their cool exterior, and I had no doubt Braiden had plenty, but I still trusted him explicitly.
Whahhh!!
* waggles eyebrows *
It will take a special man to help bring Emily back from the life she has lived for too long.
A certain someone appears up for the challenge.
I am looking forward to #3.
Bring. It. On.
Smashing good job , Kirsty!
Michelle
June 8, 2023
Most times I don't like reading about rape in a book because most authors drag out the scene. But Kirsty does a great job with being quick about it. Her writing is quick and to the point and that's how I like most of my reading. Kirsty also writes from two points of view which I love. You can get a feel on how Rebecca and Charlie feels about what is going on. It's not one sided.
You get to know Rebecca and how she is struggling to get her fears under control. You get to know how she feels about Charlie. And you also get to know the strength that Rebecca still has in her after what happened to her. I really don't want to get into a great detail about Rebecca's character because it will spoil the whole book for you all. I can talk about her love for so, so, and her wiliest to get so, so back, and so on. But if I do then it will be a MAJOR spoil and I don;t want to do that to you all.
Now, Charlie is another male character that is a man's man. He doesn't put up with shit and he knows exactly how he feels and what he wants. He is willing to die for Rebecca and stay by her side no matter what happens. All he wants is to help Rebecca move on from what has happened and make her smile once again. He has a very proactive vibe which most men have and is very caring for the ones he loves.
Now this book is a full length novel but is a cliffhanger. All it is, is setting up for the next book that will involve new characters. I promise you that you would still in fact like this book even with the cliffhanger at the end. One story ends but another one will begin in the next book.
You get to know Rebecca and how she is struggling to get her fears under control. You get to know how she feels about Charlie. And you also get to know the strength that Rebecca still has in her after what happened to her. I really don't want to get into a great detail about Rebecca's character because it will spoil the whole book for you all. I can talk about her love for so, so, and her wiliest to get so, so back, and so on. But if I do then it will be a MAJOR spoil and I don;t want to do that to you all.
Now, Charlie is another male character that is a man's man. He doesn't put up with shit and he knows exactly how he feels and what he wants. He is willing to die for Rebecca and stay by her side no matter what happens. All he wants is to help Rebecca move on from what has happened and make her smile once again. He has a very proactive vibe which most men have and is very caring for the ones he loves.
Now this book is a full length novel but is a cliffhanger. All it is, is setting up for the next book that will involve new characters. I promise you that you would still in fact like this book even with the cliffhanger at the end. One story ends but another one will begin in the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2024
Well what can I say, I'm reading these books back to back, and I'm glad I've got Emilys book waiting for me as soon as I finish this review.
Although Rebecca gets a slightly hea, her happy won't be totally there until her sister is ok and at the end of this book, she disappeared. Sorry for the kinda spoiler of sorts, but I feel Rebecca won't get her hea until she's got her sister back.
Onto Rebecca story, she was a favorite character from Ella's book.
The right amount of sassy and smarts. With a fashion wardrobe I'm jealous of ( but unfortunately wearing her clothes wouldn't work in my lifestyle I've not got room in my caravan).
At the end of Ella's story we know that Rebecca and Charlie have a past, and that both are too stubborn to get past the mistakes made.
Rebecca's life is turned upside down when an intruder break's into her home and almost rapes her. But she fought back, the attacker is scared off, but Rebecca is left dealing with the multitude of injuries and trauma from the incident.
When Charlie is called by Mercy to come secure Rebecca's house, it's a Wake up call for him.
Their journey towards a relationship, begins, with both Charlie and Rebecca learning to deal with the trauma and the news that Rebecca's sister has a part time to play in the situation.
Rebecca's life has been one of loss, she's had to rely on herself for most of her adult life, but she soon finds that she has a tight-knit family in Claymont who will put their lives in danger to help keep her safe.
I'm really enjoying Mercys Angel's and I am jumping back in right now
Although Rebecca gets a slightly hea, her happy won't be totally there until her sister is ok and at the end of this book, she disappeared. Sorry for the kinda spoiler of sorts, but I feel Rebecca won't get her hea until she's got her sister back.
Onto Rebecca story, she was a favorite character from Ella's book.
The right amount of sassy and smarts. With a fashion wardrobe I'm jealous of ( but unfortunately wearing her clothes wouldn't work in my lifestyle I've not got room in my caravan).
At the end of Ella's story we know that Rebecca and Charlie have a past, and that both are too stubborn to get past the mistakes made.
Rebecca's life is turned upside down when an intruder break's into her home and almost rapes her. But she fought back, the attacker is scared off, but Rebecca is left dealing with the multitude of injuries and trauma from the incident.
When Charlie is called by Mercy to come secure Rebecca's house, it's a Wake up call for him.
Their journey towards a relationship, begins, with both Charlie and Rebecca learning to deal with the trauma and the news that Rebecca's sister has a part time to play in the situation.
Rebecca's life has been one of loss, she's had to rely on herself for most of her adult life, but she soon finds that she has a tight-knit family in Claymont who will put their lives in danger to help keep her safe.
I'm really enjoying Mercys Angel's and I am jumping back in right now
June 5, 2017
Book 2 in the Mercy’s Angels series doesn’t disappoint, Dallas has you drawn in with her quirky fun loving characters. But the harsh reality of the darkness that Rebecca Donovan has to endure will have you fighting alongside her. Character’s like Charlie Cole will have you smiling and weak at the knees, he is a protective dude who will do anything for his woman.
I’d recommend this to those who don’t have triggers to abuse, you will laugh, cry and be moved.
I’d recommend this to those who don’t have triggers to abuse, you will laugh, cry and be moved.
October 8, 2018
Rebecca had a one night stand with Charlie a year ago. Because of a misunderstanding she has ignored him ever since. The town knows her as a florist who dresses like a pin up girl. Charlie didn't know why Rebecca blew him off and he wasn't going to chase after her to make her understand.
Home alone and the unthinkable happens. Charlie is just leaving his hook ups place when he gets a call to get to Rebecca's. What he finds sets a course for them to figure out what they mean to each other.
Although this wasn't a bad book it was mostly IMO a set up for the book that follows about Rebecca's sister Emily.
Home alone and the unthinkable happens. Charlie is just leaving his hook ups place when he gets a call to get to Rebecca's. What he finds sets a course for them to figure out what they mean to each other.
Although this wasn't a bad book it was mostly IMO a set up for the book that follows about Rebecca's sister Emily.
February 20, 2022
3.5
The psychological trauma feel too soon gone, at least per the narrator, because of Charlie.
Charlie's professions of love (way too soon) were also awkward to me, and felt very Wattpad and unrealistic.
The technical writing skills were also lacking - every plural was written <'s>, typos/ homonym spelling.
I do like the plot, so I rated 4 stars rather than 3.
The psychological trauma feel too soon gone, at least per the narrator, because of Charlie.
Charlie's professions of love (way too soon) were also awkward to me, and felt very Wattpad and unrealistic.
The technical writing skills were also lacking - every plural was written <'s>, typos/ homonym spelling.
I do like the plot, so I rated 4 stars rather than 3.
December 9, 2017
The am really enjoying this series. It is truly intriguing! A little funny at times. The dialog between the female characters is awesome.
April 30, 2018
this was the second book in this series! amazing! she has been through a bad night. now she calls upon a guy she slept with once. will they rekindle there flame? read to find out.
May 29, 2025
Woman choose the bear
This story was a hard read. Not for the weak hearted. As someone who.went through something like this.. The story was triggering but aspiring too.
This story was a hard read. Not for the weak hearted. As someone who.went through something like this.. The story was triggering but aspiring too.
Read
October 25, 20252⭐️ I got bored with the story and skimmed most of the last 50% as I didn’t want to Dnf’d
December 7, 2013
Rebecca Donovan and Charlie Cole stole my heart. Charlie Cole I can honestly say is now one of my favorite leading men. He is brave and strong. He is infuriating and passionate. He is alpha male perfection.
He is just what Rebecca (Betty Boop) needs and does not even know she needs! Rebecca is a great character too. She is such a strong female with insecurities she does not even realize. Her outward appearance and moxie I adored. I loved her pinup style.
This book deals with some scary themes. It has people who are broken and have rose above. They have made lives for themselves and really have such admirable qualities. Add the other bonus.. Dillon, Braidon, Jax, Ella, Annie, Lola, Dave, Mercy...the list is endless and brilliant. Each character has their own merit, their own beauty. I felt they were real and relatable.
Kirsty Dallas has once again given us a beautiful story that pulls at your heart. It makes you want to see them overcome. You want them to grow and watch them move forward in their lives and be happy.
Do they get their happily ever after? Hmmm maybe! You will have to read it and find out.
Fast paced, brilliant book that I could NOT put down!
Kirsty Dallas has become one of my favorites. I think you should check her out, I am wiling to say she will become one of yours too.
I'm so ready for book 3 .. Woot woot!
He is just what Rebecca (Betty Boop) needs and does not even know she needs! Rebecca is a great character too. She is such a strong female with insecurities she does not even realize. Her outward appearance and moxie I adored. I loved her pinup style.
Charlie grinned. “I guess I should make myself perfectly clear then. You’re not sure what this is? It’s us, you and me, Rebecca and Charlie, Betty Boop, and Caveman Cole. Friends? Always, but this is more, Rebecca. And you should know, I don’t like to share what’s mine, so monogamy has just become my new best friend. The fact that you have a jealous streak makes me ridiculously happy, I like to know that I’m yours. You should also know that only boys make their woman jealous of other women. A real man makes other women jealous of his woman. I intend to make every other woman on the face of this earth insanely jealous of you.”
This book deals with some scary themes. It has people who are broken and have rose above. They have made lives for themselves and really have such admirable qualities. Add the other bonus.. Dillon, Braidon, Jax, Ella, Annie, Lola, Dave, Mercy...the list is endless and brilliant. Each character has their own merit, their own beauty. I felt they were real and relatable.
Kirsty Dallas has once again given us a beautiful story that pulls at your heart. It makes you want to see them overcome. You want them to grow and watch them move forward in their lives and be happy.
Do they get their happily ever after? Hmmm maybe! You will have to read it and find out.
Fast paced, brilliant book that I could NOT put down!
Kirsty Dallas has become one of my favorites. I think you should check her out, I am wiling to say she will become one of yours too.
I'm so ready for book 3 .. Woot woot!
******************************************
August 21, 2016
Rationally, I can't give an explanation why I gave this book a star less than the first, "Saving Ella."
I feel like it may have something to do with the too-smooth journey of the characters. Don't get me wrong, this was a fast-paced read and a very enjoyable one, too. Thing is, I loved Jax in "Saving Ella" and, even though Charlie was a sweetie sometimes, he didn't compare to his best friend.
Anyway, on the plus side, Rebecca and Charlie's story is hotter than Jax and Ella. I appreciated how this well-matched their personalities and how it became meaningful for overcoming some fears...
Before starting the book, I was a bit dejected because Rebecca was so carefree and happy and bold and I'd loved how Dallas had gotten into the psyche of fragile Ella. I was worried this would turn into "first world problems" drama-llama without a drop of heart-wrenching. Instead, what we find in "Fighting Back" is a different Rebecca and that I appreciated.
The plot was a bit more complicated than in "Saving Ella," yet it still wasn't that twisted. You could tell from at least the first thirty percent where the threat was coming from.
What I really enjoyed was Charlie's one eighty. Now, some people will probably not like this kind of things, but I loved how both Jax and Charlie, upon meeting their one true love (just in case I wasn't being cheesy enough), give in to their feelings and become staunch protectors and caring lovers.
There is only one thing about Charlie that, IMO, could have been explored better: his anger. We gather from the book that he's kind of resolved some pretty severe anger issues. Yet, he states that sometimes they resurface and I was expecting him to go Hulk at least once in the book, at least when Rebecca was in danger. Instead, if at the beginning we still see him fighting for control, as the story progresses it's like the author almost forgets about it and we barely have a mention here and there. I think his anger could have been something that would make him stand out from the other male characters of the series, giving him an inner struggle (especially considered what Rebecca went through), instead it was treated as a mere background fact.
Oh and lastly, what is about all these men having a food fetish? And this comes from a hard-core food lover. But why give both Jax and Charlie this trait in common when there are so many other... passions? Mix it a bit, Dallas!
I feel like it may have something to do with the too-smooth journey of the characters. Don't get me wrong, this was a fast-paced read and a very enjoyable one, too. Thing is, I loved Jax in "Saving Ella" and, even though Charlie was a sweetie sometimes, he didn't compare to his best friend.
Anyway, on the plus side, Rebecca and Charlie's story is hotter than Jax and Ella. I appreciated how this well-matched their personalities and how it became meaningful for overcoming some fears...
Before starting the book, I was a bit dejected because Rebecca was so carefree and happy and bold and I'd loved how Dallas had gotten into the psyche of fragile Ella. I was worried this would turn into "first world problems" drama-llama without a drop of heart-wrenching. Instead, what we find in "Fighting Back" is a different Rebecca and that I appreciated.
The plot was a bit more complicated than in "Saving Ella," yet it still wasn't that twisted. You could tell from at least the first thirty percent where the threat was coming from.
What I really enjoyed was Charlie's one eighty. Now, some people will probably not like this kind of things, but I loved how both Jax and Charlie, upon meeting their one true love (just in case I wasn't being cheesy enough), give in to their feelings and become staunch protectors and caring lovers.
There is only one thing about Charlie that, IMO, could have been explored better: his anger. We gather from the book that he's kind of resolved some pretty severe anger issues. Yet, he states that sometimes they resurface and I was expecting him to go Hulk at least once in the book, at least when Rebecca was in danger. Instead, if at the beginning we still see him fighting for control, as the story progresses it's like the author almost forgets about it and we barely have a mention here and there. I think his anger could have been something that would make him stand out from the other male characters of the series, giving him an inner struggle (especially considered what Rebecca went through), instead it was treated as a mere background fact.
Oh and lastly, what is about all these men having a food fetish? And this comes from a hard-core food lover. But why give both Jax and Charlie this trait in common when there are so many other... passions? Mix it a bit, Dallas!
December 8, 2013
4.5 Stars by Jessica
Fighting Back is the second book in Kirsty Dallas’ Mercy’s Angels series. Although it can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading Saving Ella first, as many of the same characters appear prominently in both books. Fighting Back focuses on Charlie and Rebecca and I adored both characters! Charlie is lush, alpha through-and-through, tattooed and muscled, and Rebecca is gorgeous, quirky, and fiercely independent. They shared what was essentially a one-night-stand a year ago, and although they both felt something more that night, a misunderstanding and hurt feelings put a halt to anything developing further. When Rebecca undergoes a deeply traumatic event, Charlie is by her side in an instant and vows not to let her slip through his fingers again.
She leaned into me and cried like her soul had been ripped to shreds, and in that moment, I was pretty sure mine had, too.
As was the case in book one, there is no insta-love here. After spending an entire year barely speaking, Charlie nevertheless understands that the spirited Rebecca he remembers is in a fragile and vulnerable state as a result of a viscous attack and needs to recover at her own pace. He is considerate of her feelings and although he desires her, is willing to wait until she is ready to move their friendship forward, regardless of how long that takes. OMG, have I mentioned that I loved Charlie??!
“I didn’t want anyone other than you back then, I haven’t wanted anyone other than you since then, and I sure as hell don’t want anyone other than you now.”
Charlie and Rebecca are just fabulous together. Both characters have a hefty dose of emotional baggage and they are exactly what the other needs to move forward and begin to recover. Their banter had me giggling one minute and sighing dreamily the next. And I adored Charlie’s Betty Boop nickname for the retro-loving Rebecca!
“You’re in charge here, Betty Boop, if you want it, take it.”
You will feel for both Rebecca and Charlie and swoon as they realize just how much they care for each other. As I mentioned previously, many of the characters from book one show up in Fighting Back and I was so happy to see them again! The Mercy’s Angels series is my first time reading Kirsty Dallas, but it certainly won’t be the last!
Fighting Back is the second book in Kirsty Dallas’ Mercy’s Angels series. Although it can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading Saving Ella first, as many of the same characters appear prominently in both books. Fighting Back focuses on Charlie and Rebecca and I adored both characters! Charlie is lush, alpha through-and-through, tattooed and muscled, and Rebecca is gorgeous, quirky, and fiercely independent. They shared what was essentially a one-night-stand a year ago, and although they both felt something more that night, a misunderstanding and hurt feelings put a halt to anything developing further. When Rebecca undergoes a deeply traumatic event, Charlie is by her side in an instant and vows not to let her slip through his fingers again.
She leaned into me and cried like her soul had been ripped to shreds, and in that moment, I was pretty sure mine had, too.
As was the case in book one, there is no insta-love here. After spending an entire year barely speaking, Charlie nevertheless understands that the spirited Rebecca he remembers is in a fragile and vulnerable state as a result of a viscous attack and needs to recover at her own pace. He is considerate of her feelings and although he desires her, is willing to wait until she is ready to move their friendship forward, regardless of how long that takes. OMG, have I mentioned that I loved Charlie??!
“I didn’t want anyone other than you back then, I haven’t wanted anyone other than you since then, and I sure as hell don’t want anyone other than you now.”
Charlie and Rebecca are just fabulous together. Both characters have a hefty dose of emotional baggage and they are exactly what the other needs to move forward and begin to recover. Their banter had me giggling one minute and sighing dreamily the next. And I adored Charlie’s Betty Boop nickname for the retro-loving Rebecca!
“You’re in charge here, Betty Boop, if you want it, take it.”
You will feel for both Rebecca and Charlie and swoon as they realize just how much they care for each other. As I mentioned previously, many of the characters from book one show up in Fighting Back and I was so happy to see them again! The Mercy’s Angels series is my first time reading Kirsty Dallas, but it certainly won’t be the last!
May 12, 2015
LEEANN'S REVIEW
5 STARS
I think out of the whole Mercy’s Angels series, this book is my favourite.
Rebecca has had a sad life up until now, not because she was abused but because pretty much all of her family have passed away & all that is left
Is her & her sister Emily who ran away 9 years ago never to be seen again… Until now that is.
The trouble Emily has gotten herself into is now seeping into Rebecca’s life. She has been brutally attacked & now lives in fear of her own shadow.
One good thing to come out of this is Charlie.
Charlie has been in love with Rebecca for a long, long time. Now she needs him more than ever & he is determined to keep her safe & build a life with
her. As it turns out, unfortunately this will not be as easy as it sounds!
This story is one of helplessness, loss and sadness, but also love and hope. Rebecca has a wonderful small network of support & they all gather when
things get tough. Rebecca learns a lot about herself while she is going through this journey. She realises just how much strength she really has.
It is amazing to see her not back down without a fight. Even at the worst moments, she fights until help arrives. She also learns that it is ok to give your heart
and to love and be loved.
I absolutely loved reading Rebecca & Charlie’s story, they are perfectly matched in every way & you can’t help but hold your breath throughout the book hoping they
get their shot at happy ever after.
Kirsty Dallas has done an amazing job bringing these characters to life & her style of writing really emphasizes what someone in the situations in these stories
would very possibly go through & experience. All of the books in this series make you feel. You can’t help but get caught up in the emotions of the characters
and feel like you are watching it all play out in front of you even though you are actually reading a book.
I would recommend this book & this entire series to anyone who likes to read romance filled with just enough drama & suspense to keep you hanging on until the
very end. You will not be disappointed!!
5 STARS
I think out of the whole Mercy’s Angels series, this book is my favourite.
Rebecca has had a sad life up until now, not because she was abused but because pretty much all of her family have passed away & all that is left
Is her & her sister Emily who ran away 9 years ago never to be seen again… Until now that is.
The trouble Emily has gotten herself into is now seeping into Rebecca’s life. She has been brutally attacked & now lives in fear of her own shadow.
One good thing to come out of this is Charlie.
Charlie has been in love with Rebecca for a long, long time. Now she needs him more than ever & he is determined to keep her safe & build a life with
her. As it turns out, unfortunately this will not be as easy as it sounds!
This story is one of helplessness, loss and sadness, but also love and hope. Rebecca has a wonderful small network of support & they all gather when
things get tough. Rebecca learns a lot about herself while she is going through this journey. She realises just how much strength she really has.
It is amazing to see her not back down without a fight. Even at the worst moments, she fights until help arrives. She also learns that it is ok to give your heart
and to love and be loved.
I absolutely loved reading Rebecca & Charlie’s story, they are perfectly matched in every way & you can’t help but hold your breath throughout the book hoping they
get their shot at happy ever after.
Kirsty Dallas has done an amazing job bringing these characters to life & her style of writing really emphasizes what someone in the situations in these stories
would very possibly go through & experience. All of the books in this series make you feel. You can’t help but get caught up in the emotions of the characters
and feel like you are watching it all play out in front of you even though you are actually reading a book.
I would recommend this book & this entire series to anyone who likes to read romance filled with just enough drama & suspense to keep you hanging on until the
very end. You will not be disappointed!!
June 16, 2014
2.5 STARS
First of all let me tell you that I am a fan of Kirsty Dallas' Mercy's Angels series. I think she is an amazing author, so if you haven't read any of her books and you are reading this review to decide, let me tell you something: Go buy one of her books, just maybe not this one
If you read " Saving Ella" and thought that Rebecca and Charlie were interesting enough to deserve their own book, you will probably like this one. However, if you read " Saving Ella" and thought that they were nice secondary characters, but not interesting enough then you will probably be in the same boat I am right now.
Rebecca proved in the first book that she was an amazing friend. Besides that, the most (if not only) interesting things about her are that she dresses up a a pin up girl and her sister Em (which is the main character of the 3rd book on the series, a book that I loved btw).
The same goes about Charlie. The most interesting things about him, besides being a good friend are: his family and his alleged rages (or that's what they tell us, because actually I didn't see anything besides a common rage when someone you care about has been hurt). Suddenly he would say something like this:
"You should also know that only boys make their woman jealous of other women. A real man makes other women jealous of his woman. I intend to make every other woman on the face of this earth insanely jealous of you.”
And I would be let thinking that this phrase was so Jax (the main character of Saving Ella) and not Charlie at all.
I also feel that this whole book was just a set up to introduce us the characters on the 3rd book, as this story itself was more related to what was going on in Em's life that in Rebecca's. Besides the romantic involvement, Rebecca and Charlie weren't more than secondary characters in the main suspense story.
First of all let me tell you that I am a fan of Kirsty Dallas' Mercy's Angels series. I think she is an amazing author, so if you haven't read any of her books and you are reading this review to decide, let me tell you something: Go buy one of her books, just maybe not this one
If you read " Saving Ella" and thought that Rebecca and Charlie were interesting enough to deserve their own book, you will probably like this one. However, if you read " Saving Ella" and thought that they were nice secondary characters, but not interesting enough then you will probably be in the same boat I am right now.
Rebecca proved in the first book that she was an amazing friend. Besides that, the most (if not only) interesting things about her are that she dresses up a a pin up girl and her sister Em (which is the main character of the 3rd book on the series, a book that I loved btw).
The same goes about Charlie. The most interesting things about him, besides being a good friend are: his family and his alleged rages (or that's what they tell us, because actually I didn't see anything besides a common rage when someone you care about has been hurt). Suddenly he would say something like this:
"You should also know that only boys make their woman jealous of other women. A real man makes other women jealous of his woman. I intend to make every other woman on the face of this earth insanely jealous of you.”
And I would be let thinking that this phrase was so Jax (the main character of Saving Ella) and not Charlie at all.
I also feel that this whole book was just a set up to introduce us the characters on the 3rd book, as this story itself was more related to what was going on in Em's life that in Rebecca's. Besides the romantic involvement, Rebecca and Charlie weren't more than secondary characters in the main suspense story.
December 9, 2013
Originally reviewed on www.upallnightbookblog.com; direct link: http://wp.me/p32mvq-1EP
3.5 Stars
I recently discovered Kirsty Dallas and read both Mercy's Angels books back to back. Saving Ella, Book 1, is Ella's and Jax's story; Fighting Back is Rebecca's and Charlie's story. Both work well as standalone novels, however I think I benefited from reading Saving Ella first as I felt a strong connection right away with all of the characters and what Mercy's Angels are all about.
Fighting Back starts with an intense, painful situation for Rebecca. I was immediately drawn into the story and definitely felt all of her conflicting emotions that arose out of it. And then there is Charlie...he's a tough fighter with a soft spot for Rebecca - his 'Betty Boop' - and a tendency to fight before asking questions. I really loved watching their relationship grow in Fighting Back as they helped each other fight their own demons.
Kirsty Dallas adds just the right touch of humor mixed in with the danger of not knowing who is the 'bad guy'. I loved seeing the same cast of characters from Saving Ella along with a few new faces - Lola and Emily and Braiden. Kirsty Dallas definitely knows how to dish up a hot alpha with a side of sweet and her female characters, while having experienced some at-times god-awful situations, are fighters with a sense of humor and a backbone. I can't wait to learn more about the others we've just begun to meet in future books! Overall, a quick and intense read that left me hanging just a little bit for book 3.
Copy provided for honest review
3.5 Stars
I recently discovered Kirsty Dallas and read both Mercy's Angels books back to back. Saving Ella, Book 1, is Ella's and Jax's story; Fighting Back is Rebecca's and Charlie's story. Both work well as standalone novels, however I think I benefited from reading Saving Ella first as I felt a strong connection right away with all of the characters and what Mercy's Angels are all about.
Fighting Back starts with an intense, painful situation for Rebecca. I was immediately drawn into the story and definitely felt all of her conflicting emotions that arose out of it. And then there is Charlie...he's a tough fighter with a soft spot for Rebecca - his 'Betty Boop' - and a tendency to fight before asking questions. I really loved watching their relationship grow in Fighting Back as they helped each other fight their own demons.
Kirsty Dallas adds just the right touch of humor mixed in with the danger of not knowing who is the 'bad guy'. I loved seeing the same cast of characters from Saving Ella along with a few new faces - Lola and Emily and Braiden. Kirsty Dallas definitely knows how to dish up a hot alpha with a side of sweet and her female characters, while having experienced some at-times god-awful situations, are fighters with a sense of humor and a backbone. I can't wait to learn more about the others we've just begun to meet in future books! Overall, a quick and intense read that left me hanging just a little bit for book 3.
Copy provided for honest review
December 7, 2013
I’m not usually a romance or sexy story reader. I just don’t need it, BUT, after reading Breeze of Life, I was a Kirsty fan for life. She has a writing style that just sucks you in.
This book opens and well…it’s rough. I realize it’s not something that all readers will be able to get through, but for me, the harder it is, the better it is. If it makes me uncomfortable, the author is doing her (or his) job. From the get go, I was drawn into Fighting Back, just like I was with Saving Ella. Rebecca is a strong woman but then, tragedy strikes. We know that Rebecca “Betty Boop” Donovan and Charlie “Caveman” Cole have had a previous…umm…meeting, but things prevented them from being together (namely themselves, but I digress). I mean, their nicknames should give their personalities away, no?
When Rebecca is at her lowest point, Charlie is the one who comes swooping in. Charlie realizes he made a mistake previously. Rebecca is his. Of this there is no doubt, and he’s going to make sure that she knows that from here on out. Rawr. Alpha male. Yes. Please.
Kirsty has a way of making her characters work together and well, I gotta be honest, the fact that every character is involved in helping the heroine in her stories makes my little, black heart happy. This book (as well as Saving Ella) is just a good book. Highs, lows, drama, love, it’s got it all. Put it on your TBR list. Now. In fact, keep Kirsty Dallas on your radar. Mark my words.
This book opens and well…it’s rough. I realize it’s not something that all readers will be able to get through, but for me, the harder it is, the better it is. If it makes me uncomfortable, the author is doing her (or his) job. From the get go, I was drawn into Fighting Back, just like I was with Saving Ella. Rebecca is a strong woman but then, tragedy strikes. We know that Rebecca “Betty Boop” Donovan and Charlie “Caveman” Cole have had a previous…umm…meeting, but things prevented them from being together (namely themselves, but I digress). I mean, their nicknames should give their personalities away, no?
When Rebecca is at her lowest point, Charlie is the one who comes swooping in. Charlie realizes he made a mistake previously. Rebecca is his. Of this there is no doubt, and he’s going to make sure that she knows that from here on out. Rawr. Alpha male. Yes. Please.
Kirsty has a way of making her characters work together and well, I gotta be honest, the fact that every character is involved in helping the heroine in her stories makes my little, black heart happy. This book (as well as Saving Ella) is just a good book. Highs, lows, drama, love, it’s got it all. Put it on your TBR list. Now. In fact, keep Kirsty Dallas on your radar. Mark my words.
December 3, 2013
I fell in love with the author’s previous book, Saving Ella and had very high hopes going into this book. I was not disappointed, This book was beyond amazing. I was not all prepared for how deeply I would fall in love with the characters of Rebecca Donovan and Charlie Cole. Even after I finished reading the book, I could not get this pair out of my mind. I nominate Charlie for every book boyfriend award from now until the end of time. I adored this brave, strong, alpha man who became the ultimate savior to Rebecca when she needed one the most. Kirsty Dallas has created an amazing story with a plot that is intelligent, fast paced, intriguing, thought provoking,detail driven and thoroughly enjoyable. I could not put this book down. I found myself sneaking my kindle into school just to read glimpses of this amazing story. And , as usual, at the conclusion of one of Kirsty’s books I found myself ready to beg for more. This second release in the Mercy’s Angels series is so good. I swear this series is like literary crack to me and I am addicted for life. An amazing book from an equally amazing author. 5 out of 5 stars for sure. I can’t wait for the next release from Kirsty Dallas. I can’t freaking wait.
July 4, 2014
This was just ok for me. Even though I don't really remember all that happened in the first book because I read it so long ago, I do remember that I enjoyed it enough to convince me to carry on with this series. This book however, as I read in another review, felt sort of like a filler. I wasn't really feeling Charlie or Rebecca. I kept waiting or reading on to get glimpses of Jax and Ella or Braiden. He seemed yummy and I'm glad is book is next cause it seems like it will be hot! At least I hope so!
Rebecca - she seemed to have three emotions. She was either crying or pissed and when she wasn't those she was 'stubbornly independent'! It got stubbornly frustrating! Safe to say that I didn't really care for her and just endured her though this.
Charlie - I don't really know how to feel about him. Nothing special stuck out in my mind about, nothing to set him apart. Him and Rebecca spent most of the book acting like teenagers fumbling their way around each other. I know she had her ordeal to contend with so I guess that contributed to it as well.
Well going into the next book now... Just hope it good.
Rebecca - she seemed to have three emotions. She was either crying or pissed and when she wasn't those she was 'stubbornly independent'! It got stubbornly frustrating! Safe to say that I didn't really care for her and just endured her though this.
Charlie - I don't really know how to feel about him. Nothing special stuck out in my mind about, nothing to set him apart. Him and Rebecca spent most of the book acting like teenagers fumbling their way around each other. I know she had her ordeal to contend with so I guess that contributed to it as well.
Well going into the next book now... Just hope it good.
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