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No Holds Barred #1
Hooks In
Hatred often walks in disguise.
Rival MMA fighters Ty Roscoe and Luca Mitchell have been battling for the top spot in the rankings for years. Evenly matched in skill and constantly stripping each other of number one, the rivalry continues to grow and extend outside the cage. Knowing just how to push each other’s buttons, a deep hatred shadows their shared goal of becoming the best fighters they can be. And when an opportunity comes knocking to train at an elite MMA gym, they each think they’ll leave the other behind once and for all.
But when they end up at the same gym, under the same coach, the tension only rises. For the first time ever, they’re not fighting against each other. As they are forced to work as teammates, the battle for dominance is only amplified. They each have something the other needs, and the more time they spend training on the mats and in the boxing ring, they now realize they aren’t fighting each other… they’re fighting something else.
Their dynamic morphs, the tension evolves, and the hate drops its mask. They know everything there is to fight each other. But now, they have so much more to learn.
Submission was never in the cards.
But outside the cage, will the gloves finally drop?
Hooks In is book 1 in the No Holds Barred duet and ends on a HFN. Book 2 will be a continuation of Ty and Luca’s story.
Rival MMA fighters Ty Roscoe and Luca Mitchell have been battling for the top spot in the rankings for years. Evenly matched in skill and constantly stripping each other of number one, the rivalry continues to grow and extend outside the cage. Knowing just how to push each other’s buttons, a deep hatred shadows their shared goal of becoming the best fighters they can be. And when an opportunity comes knocking to train at an elite MMA gym, they each think they’ll leave the other behind once and for all.
But when they end up at the same gym, under the same coach, the tension only rises. For the first time ever, they’re not fighting against each other. As they are forced to work as teammates, the battle for dominance is only amplified. They each have something the other needs, and the more time they spend training on the mats and in the boxing ring, they now realize they aren’t fighting each other… they’re fighting something else.
Their dynamic morphs, the tension evolves, and the hate drops its mask. They know everything there is to fight each other. But now, they have so much more to learn.
Submission was never in the cards.
But outside the cage, will the gloves finally drop?
Hooks In is book 1 in the No Holds Barred duet and ends on a HFN. Book 2 will be a continuation of Ty and Luca’s story.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 15, 2024
291 people are currently reading
2650 people want to read
About the author
Eve Holmes
8 books233 followersEve is an avid lover of coffee, getting lost in fictional worlds, crafting and ducks. She lives in a small town in Atlantic Canada with a bunch of animals and plans to get many more, much to her family and friends dismay.
When she’s not writing or trying to get ducks to love her, she can usually be found fantasizing about living in a tree house, riding her horses, and exploring Nova Scotia.
Eve enjoys a challenge, and will gladly turn the strangest writing prompt into a book. There’s much more to come, we’re just getting started!
When she’s not writing or trying to get ducks to love her, she can usually be found fantasizing about living in a tree house, riding her horses, and exploring Nova Scotia.
Eve enjoys a challenge, and will gladly turn the strangest writing prompt into a book. There’s much more to come, we’re just getting started!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 290 reviews
February 17, 2024
Dnf 60%.
2,25 stars.
Lots of thoughts.. mainly how disappointed I am that this didn't turn out to be what I had hoped for. 😂
I had hoped for sports rivals acting like the adults they are, falling in love.
What I got were sports rivals acting like they had reasons to hate each other, for the longest time acting like petulant children every time one of them was better than the other, because:
-Ty: Luca gets everything handed to him, he doesn't have to work full time and has it easy, smirks at me just to get me to explode.
-Luca: Ty doesn't even show happiness when he wins, and is always closed off and not even trying to make friends, I'll smirk and taunt until he explodes.
These "reasons" for their mutual hatred kept running through their minds well past the first half of the book, and they mentioned their hatred constantly, it got boring and cringey.
I hoped for the longest time they both would become rational adults soon, and get over their mutual "hate" that was just based on assumptions and mean smirks, not even sports rivalry.
I don't read enemies/rivals to lovers often because I rarely find it believable, and this book is the perfect example why it doesn't work for me.
Other things that bothered me.
How Ty's bi-awakening was treated. Quote:
"“Are you (bi) ?” I ask. He finally looks up at me and gives a slight shake of his head, his expression somewhat thoughtful. “Never thought I was.”
I can read between those lines. He’s bi for me. I’ve awakened him. And I feel damn good about that.
I smile at him. “Gotcha.”"
I'm really glad the author spelled it out for me *eye roll*.
And. I didn't enjoy the sex scenes at all. There was no intimacy or emotional connection, Luca knew he was attracted to Ty but Ty was just overwhelmed in my opinion (but a pro at sex with another man obviously).
There's lots of MMA fighting and training and that was the part I enjoyed the most.
2,25 stars.
Lots of thoughts.. mainly how disappointed I am that this didn't turn out to be what I had hoped for. 😂
I had hoped for sports rivals acting like the adults they are, falling in love.
What I got were sports rivals acting like they had reasons to hate each other, for the longest time acting like petulant children every time one of them was better than the other, because:
-Ty: Luca gets everything handed to him, he doesn't have to work full time and has it easy, smirks at me just to get me to explode.
-Luca: Ty doesn't even show happiness when he wins, and is always closed off and not even trying to make friends, I'll smirk and taunt until he explodes.
These "reasons" for their mutual hatred kept running through their minds well past the first half of the book, and they mentioned their hatred constantly, it got boring and cringey.
I hoped for the longest time they both would become rational adults soon, and get over their mutual "hate" that was just based on assumptions and mean smirks, not even sports rivalry.
I don't read enemies/rivals to lovers often because I rarely find it believable, and this book is the perfect example why it doesn't work for me.
Other things that bothered me.
How Ty's bi-awakening was treated. Quote:
"“Are you (bi) ?” I ask. He finally looks up at me and gives a slight shake of his head, his expression somewhat thoughtful. “Never thought I was.”
I can read between those lines. He’s bi for me. I’ve awakened him. And I feel damn good about that.
I smile at him. “Gotcha.”"
I'm really glad the author spelled it out for me *eye roll*.
And. I didn't enjoy the sex scenes at all. There was no intimacy or emotional connection, Luca knew he was attracted to Ty but Ty was just overwhelmed in my opinion (but a pro at sex with another man obviously).
There's lots of MMA fighting and training and that was the part I enjoyed the most.
May 8, 2024
Hooks In is an entertaining rivals-to-lovers romance between MMA fighters Ty and Luca. Ty and Luca are opposites in personality, which makes for hilarious encounters between these two. Luca is a charming extroverted fighter, while Ty is focused and introverted, together they make one amazing pair filled with sizzling chemistry.
Hooks In is a fun story where two opposites quickly discover their mutual attraction, but due to their environmental factors make for one complicated situation. Luca and Ty are an amazing couple who experience many ups and downs in their relationship. I loved seeing their relationship grow, mature and develop into something sincere and mature. I cannot wait to read the next entry of their story!!!
* I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
Hooks In is a fun story where two opposites quickly discover their mutual attraction, but due to their environmental factors make for one complicated situation. Luca and Ty are an amazing couple who experience many ups and downs in their relationship. I loved seeing their relationship grow, mature and develop into something sincere and mature. I cannot wait to read the next entry of their story!!!
* I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
July 15, 2024
Loved getting to know Ty and Luca. The nickname Tiger, and all the random tiger facts that Luca spouts are absolutely adorable - especially when you consider these guys are pretty vicious MMA fighters 😂
I did like the enemies to lovers aspect but I would have liked a bit more of the enemies part, because they do get together fairly early on.
I'm intrigued by what will happen with Luca's parents and also with their goal of getting to UFC level.
Also adore the way they say 'moon and stars' 😍 Plus Luca's wardrobe sounds right up my alley 😂
I'm also hoping the next book has more of the emotional content that I absolutely loved and cried over in the Songs of Freedom series. I didn't get that same strong emotional reaction until almost the end of this book, but I'm optimistic that it's coming!
I did like the enemies to lovers aspect but I would have liked a bit more of the enemies part, because they do get together fairly early on.
I'm intrigued by what will happen with Luca's parents and also with their goal of getting to UFC level.
Also adore the way they say 'moon and stars' 😍 Plus Luca's wardrobe sounds right up my alley 😂
I'm also hoping the next book has more of the emotional content that I absolutely loved and cried over in the Songs of Freedom series. I didn't get that same strong emotional reaction until almost the end of this book, but I'm optimistic that it's coming!
![Profile Image for moonlight ☾ [semi-hiatus].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1645500038i%2F37448930._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
September 22, 2024
I drop my hockey bag to the ground and take a step towards him. "Why didn't you go to the gym tonight, Ty?"
Even in the dark, I see something flash through his dark brown eyes. And I think that something is vulnerability.
He blinks it away and raises his chin slightly. "Why did you bake for a fucking bakery last night?"
Touché.
But I stay quiet and tilt my head as I observe him, needing him to answer my question first.
A breath escapes him as he drops his eyes from mine. "You're in my head."
oh this was so fun!! i read an Eve Holmes book a while back and it personally wasn't for me so i wasn't sure what to expect going in but the blurb intrigued me and i'm glad it was a case of the characters/story rather than the writing that didn't work for me in the other book bc this book specifically had me more invested in the characters and romance. i loved the tension between Ty and Luca in the first half and the build up to when something finally happened between them. sure, the pacing on that aspect could have been slower than it was but i loved their banter and dynamic. the secret, shared glances and just the way they keep learning about each other with their interactions had me hooked. 🥹 while i loved Luca, Ty was my favorite and he was just so relatable with the way he thinks and how he has this wall he puts between him and those who try to get close to him. i do, however, loved the side characters, especially in Max's MMA team and how, even when Ty was trying to push them away and coming off as an asshole, they weren't put off by it but they still kept trying. can't wait to read the second book and seeing more of Luca and Ty together!!
Even in the dark, I see something flash through his dark brown eyes. And I think that something is vulnerability.
He blinks it away and raises his chin slightly. "Why did you bake for a fucking bakery last night?"
Touché.
But I stay quiet and tilt my head as I observe him, needing him to answer my question first.
A breath escapes him as he drops his eyes from mine. "You're in my head."
oh this was so fun!! i read an Eve Holmes book a while back and it personally wasn't for me so i wasn't sure what to expect going in but the blurb intrigued me and i'm glad it was a case of the characters/story rather than the writing that didn't work for me in the other book bc this book specifically had me more invested in the characters and romance. i loved the tension between Ty and Luca in the first half and the build up to when something finally happened between them. sure, the pacing on that aspect could have been slower than it was but i loved their banter and dynamic. the secret, shared glances and just the way they keep learning about each other with their interactions had me hooked. 🥹 while i loved Luca, Ty was my favorite and he was just so relatable with the way he thinks and how he has this wall he puts between him and those who try to get close to him. i do, however, loved the side characters, especially in Max's MMA team and how, even when Ty was trying to push them away and coming off as an asshole, they weren't put off by it but they still kept trying. can't wait to read the second book and seeing more of Luca and Ty together!!
May 24, 2024
HELL IM GOING TO THROW MYSELF OFF THE FUCKING CLIFF NOW THAT IM IN A DESPERATE NEED FOR BOOK 2 , A SOLID 6 STAR READ 😭❤❤
WOW WOW WOW , IN LOVE , IN TEARS , IN HEAT
THIS FUCKKING book is EVERYTHING, im sooo happy i read it and so mad at myself for not waiting until the book 2 is out , Butttt i really had a good time, tyler and luca stole my heart EFFORTLESSLY, god I love them more than anything, especially tyler I felt so connected to this guy somehow I find myself in his personality, LOVE LOVE THIS GUY he gave me a strange comforting feeling when read his pov , and luca omggg this guy is the sweetest thing in the book , so funny cute loving, if i was tyler i would be head over heels for him as well , he's absolutely everything tyler needed.
Im sorry for my family and the neighbours for all my screams 😂but the energy in this fucking book was palpable and i couldn't resist it , the plot was amazingly set up , the breathtaking fights , the vibes just chef's kiss 💋
I love everyone in this team they're the best
The spice 😭😭😭 was great maybe 🌶🌶🌶/5
Overall I LOVE THIS BOOOK AND IM HERE ON THE TRAIN TRACK UNTIL THE BOOK 2 IS RELEASED
MOON AND STARS MY BOYS 🥺❤
WOW WOW WOW , IN LOVE , IN TEARS , IN HEAT
THIS FUCKKING book is EVERYTHING, im sooo happy i read it and so mad at myself for not waiting until the book 2 is out , Butttt i really had a good time, tyler and luca stole my heart EFFORTLESSLY, god I love them more than anything, especially tyler I felt so connected to this guy somehow I find myself in his personality, LOVE LOVE THIS GUY he gave me a strange comforting feeling when read his pov , and luca omggg this guy is the sweetest thing in the book , so funny cute loving, if i was tyler i would be head over heels for him as well , he's absolutely everything tyler needed.
Im sorry for my family and the neighbours for all my screams 😂but the energy in this fucking book was palpable and i couldn't resist it , the plot was amazingly set up , the breathtaking fights , the vibes just chef's kiss 💋
I love everyone in this team they're the best
The spice 😭😭😭 was great maybe 🌶🌶🌶/5
Overall I LOVE THIS BOOOK AND IM HERE ON THE TRAIN TRACK UNTIL THE BOOK 2 IS RELEASED
MOON AND STARS MY BOYS 🥺❤
June 8, 2025
3.5**** stars
While I overall enjoyed this book, the romance, the spice (yeah, they get into it a lot) as well as the setup, I somehow had a hard time getting into it. It seems like the same thing is happening to me with book two. Anyhow, not going to rave about this one but it’s still a nice read with quite a few captivating moments.
The first book ends on a HFN with not really any cliffhanger.
************
No Holds Barred Duet
Book 1 - Hooks In - 3.5 stars
Book 2 - Choke Hold
While I overall enjoyed this book, the romance, the spice (yeah, they get into it a lot) as well as the setup, I somehow had a hard time getting into it. It seems like the same thing is happening to me with book two. Anyhow, not going to rave about this one but it’s still a nice read with quite a few captivating moments.
He cares about nothing, while I care about everything. Yet here we are, in the same place, with the same opportunity. The one I worked so hard for, and the one he just seems to be having fun with.
“Nothing was for me, until I found kickboxing. And by the time I was able to get out from under [my parents] and make my own decisions, I decided that everything I do will have one simple rule attached to it. It has to make me happy.”
The first book ends on a HFN with not really any cliffhanger.
************
No Holds Barred Duet
Book 1 - Hooks In - 3.5 stars
Book 2 - Choke Hold
February 23, 2024
cons:
they were rivals for like 3 seconds lmaoooo like the lust was pretty immediate😂😂😂 it moved way too fast for me to get on board with it.....Luca thinks to himself "fuck. I'm in deep" after fooling around ONCE ! like huhuhuhh????? it's like the 2nd time they're left alone in the gym and all of the sudden luca's sucking dick????......I just felt no chemistry between these two....luca's down bad outta nowhere so i'm not feeling that and ty is giving stale/flat instead of shy/grumpy..... so I pretty much knew around 32% that this wasn't gonna work for me, but I really wanted to get to the "I've awakened him" part bc LMFAO still funny....after that I pretty much skimmed all the rest, even the sex scenes bc they were giving nothinggg.....oh but at one point when they're fucking luca says “Yeah, bring me to pound town, ground and pound me, get down and-” which ty interrupts to tell him to stfu (thank god!!!)....I think Luca was trying to be annoying on purpose but I don't care, I can't read stuff like that and not full body cringe😭😭😭 so yea, I might as well have just given up at 32% bc my time was wasteddddd😭😭😭 oh also, I cannot BELIEVE luca got stars added around his moon tattoo bc "moon and stars" are his and ty's thing when they're not even officially together and have barely even commented on their feelings lmfaooooo like my jaw was on the floor bc ain't no way u got a tattoo representing him !!!!
pros:
tiger was such a cute nickname for ty
(me adding one tiny pro after my paragraph of cons: 🤗🤗😇😇😌😌)
they were rivals for like 3 seconds lmaoooo like the lust was pretty immediate😂😂😂 it moved way too fast for me to get on board with it.....Luca thinks to himself "fuck. I'm in deep" after fooling around ONCE ! like huhuhuhh????? it's like the 2nd time they're left alone in the gym and all of the sudden luca's sucking dick????......I just felt no chemistry between these two....luca's down bad outta nowhere so i'm not feeling that and ty is giving stale/flat instead of shy/grumpy..... so I pretty much knew around 32% that this wasn't gonna work for me, but I really wanted to get to the "I've awakened him" part bc LMFAO still funny....after that I pretty much skimmed all the rest, even the sex scenes bc they were giving nothinggg.....oh but at one point when they're fucking luca says “Yeah, bring me to pound town, ground and pound me, get down and-” which ty interrupts to tell him to stfu (thank god!!!)....I think Luca was trying to be annoying on purpose but I don't care, I can't read stuff like that and not full body cringe😭😭😭 so yea, I might as well have just given up at 32% bc my time was wasteddddd😭😭😭 oh also, I cannot BELIEVE luca got stars added around his moon tattoo bc "moon and stars" are his and ty's thing when they're not even officially together and have barely even commented on their feelings lmfaooooo like my jaw was on the floor bc ain't no way u got a tattoo representing him !!!!
pros:
tiger was such a cute nickname for ty
(me adding one tiny pro after my paragraph of cons: 🤗🤗😇😇😌😌)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2024
“Did you know that a tiger’s urine smells like buttered popcorn?”
His face twists in horror. “What?”
I shrug, unsure myself why I chose to share that right now. And why I even know that. “You’re a tiger, thought you’d like to know.”
Not that good. 2.75⭐ and I'm being generous, because I can't feel the connection between Tyler and Luca.
Their dialogues aren't good, the rivalry wasn't that well done and the sex was so-so.
I found Luca obnoxious and their whole dynamic just put me off, I wasn't feeling it.
🟣 MMA fighters (in training)
🔵 Rivals
🟡 Bisexual/bi-awakening (not done well)
🟢 Both over 20 years old, post college
🟠 Grumpy/sunshine
🟣 Dialogues could be better, the story is nothing special, nothing much is going on either
🌶️ Smut descriptive, quite good, but the connection isn't really there; rimming, oral, penetrative; so far it's t/b, hinting at vers
Luca and Tyler are rivals who want to end up fighting in the UFC. They train hard, they're both good and they end up in a prestigious gym training with a formal professional UFC fighter.
The side characters were one too many, they weren't as good, but besides that, Luca and Tyler start having sex and then their somewhat interesting dynamic turns to annoying. Ty didn't seem as interested and Luca was just annoying as fuck.
“One of these days, Ty…” he says softly, “you’re going to have to just let go. Feel something, and realize you don’t always need to be in complete control.”
This guy was constantly berating Tyler, who had a rough childhood and MMA practically saved him from a very bad life, to let go and just lose control. Ty was telling him over and over that he can't afford to do that, he has to remain focused and become a professional fighter, but this guy just wouldn't let go and it's funny to me since they're both in this, they know they have to train hard and be in control to make it, so I have no idea what was Luca's angle here.
Their romantic chemistry wasn't as good. It was a one-time hook-up kinda chemistry, nothing more.
"I want to explore whatever this is with him. He’s fucking hot, he can apparently suck dick really well, and he has a great dick himself. What more could I want? I mean, sure, maybe for him not to hate me, but baby steps… baby steps…"
In over 300 pages nothing more than this happens between them and bam, they already love each other. It was very, very far from believable.
As far as the training goes, it was quite satisfying, I thought they were going to spend more time fighting though, if not each other at least other people, but the pacing is pretty slow as it is, so after almost 350 pages we're getting another book - their not that interesting story stretched out for no reason.
I'm not feeling it, but I'm going to read it anyway.
I wouldn't really recommend this book though, uneventful and boring.
His face twists in horror. “What?”
I shrug, unsure myself why I chose to share that right now. And why I even know that. “You’re a tiger, thought you’d like to know.”
Not that good. 2.75⭐ and I'm being generous, because I can't feel the connection between Tyler and Luca.
Their dialogues aren't good, the rivalry wasn't that well done and the sex was so-so.
I found Luca obnoxious and their whole dynamic just put me off, I wasn't feeling it.
🟣 MMA fighters (in training)
🔵 Rivals
🟡 Bisexual/bi-awakening (not done well)
🟢 Both over 20 years old, post college
🟠 Grumpy/sunshine
🟣 Dialogues could be better, the story is nothing special, nothing much is going on either
🌶️ Smut descriptive, quite good, but the connection isn't really there; rimming, oral, penetrative; so far it's t/b, hinting at vers
Luca and Tyler are rivals who want to end up fighting in the UFC. They train hard, they're both good and they end up in a prestigious gym training with a formal professional UFC fighter.
The side characters were one too many, they weren't as good, but besides that, Luca and Tyler start having sex and then their somewhat interesting dynamic turns to annoying. Ty didn't seem as interested and Luca was just annoying as fuck.
“One of these days, Ty…” he says softly, “you’re going to have to just let go. Feel something, and realize you don’t always need to be in complete control.”
This guy was constantly berating Tyler, who had a rough childhood and MMA practically saved him from a very bad life, to let go and just lose control. Ty was telling him over and over that he can't afford to do that, he has to remain focused and become a professional fighter, but this guy just wouldn't let go and it's funny to me since they're both in this, they know they have to train hard and be in control to make it, so I have no idea what was Luca's angle here.
Their romantic chemistry wasn't as good. It was a one-time hook-up kinda chemistry, nothing more.
"I want to explore whatever this is with him. He’s fucking hot, he can apparently suck dick really well, and he has a great dick himself. What more could I want? I mean, sure, maybe for him not to hate me, but baby steps… baby steps…"
In over 300 pages nothing more than this happens between them and bam, they already love each other. It was very, very far from believable.
As far as the training goes, it was quite satisfying, I thought they were going to spend more time fighting though, if not each other at least other people, but the pacing is pretty slow as it is, so after almost 350 pages we're getting another book - their not that interesting story stretched out for no reason.
I'm not feeling it, but I'm going to read it anyway.
I wouldn't really recommend this book though, uneventful and boring.
April 23, 2025
I’m here because I’m a sucker for haters-to-lovers. I love the tension, the I love to hate and the I hate to love. And, of course, I love the hate fucking. So imagine my joy when I found out an Eve Holmes book has 2 MMA rivals swoon 🫠🫠🫠. Imagine all that testosterone fueling both the hate and the love🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵
I’m a simple person with simple needs, as you can see 😅
So, rivals training in the same team as teammates 💥🫡—the tension is real!
If you think you like rivals-to-lovers, grumpiest grump × sunniest sunshine, black meets rainbow 🌈🖤, lowish angst, perfect tension, incredible cage battles 🥊, delicious hate sex, unicorn lovers 🦄, scorching hot sex that'll make you clutch your damn pearls 💦, terrible pop music 🎶, random tiger 🐯 facts, the most random tattoos ever, and punching as a love language (they’re MMA fighters, okay?)…add in absolutely filthy dirty talk, fucking with unicorn socks on (because duh, obviously 🧦), cum kink, good boy kink, and did I mention the goddamn scorching sex?
If you can bypass some a bit juvenile behaviors, like the grumpy sometimes is extremely rude and the sunshine sometimes is annoying af 😂 also the connection is more physical than emotional, but I hope for more in book two. They tendo to swear to each other a lot 😅 so there’s that. It’s a simple book, not a lot of depth for now.
Yeah.
This is the book for you.
Ty and Luca will punch and kick your world—in the best way. ❤️🔥 Moon and stars, baby 🌙✨
This is q duet so Choke Hold here I come 🥊
“How the fuck did that happen?” His head whips between us several times, like he’s waiting for us to yell psyche!
“It was the tension.” I nod seriously. “Hatred often walks in disguise…”
Ty snorts and shakes his head. “The hatred was real.”
“Was.” I point out, then tilt my head with a smile. “Aw. Tyler. You expressed a feeling. Congratulations.”
He glares at me. “Hatred may still be real.”
“Oh please,” I scoff. “Tell me that when you’re balls deep in my-”
I’m a simple person with simple needs, as you can see 😅
So, rivals training in the same team as teammates 💥🫡—the tension is real!
If you think you like rivals-to-lovers, grumpiest grump × sunniest sunshine, black meets rainbow 🌈🖤, lowish angst, perfect tension, incredible cage battles 🥊, delicious hate sex, unicorn lovers 🦄, scorching hot sex that'll make you clutch your damn pearls 💦, terrible pop music 🎶, random tiger 🐯 facts, the most random tattoos ever, and punching as a love language (they’re MMA fighters, okay?)…add in absolutely filthy dirty talk, fucking with unicorn socks on (because duh, obviously 🧦), cum kink, good boy kink, and did I mention the goddamn scorching sex?
If you can bypass some a bit juvenile behaviors, like the grumpy sometimes is extremely rude and the sunshine sometimes is annoying af 😂 also the connection is more physical than emotional, but I hope for more in book two. They tendo to swear to each other a lot 😅 so there’s that. It’s a simple book, not a lot of depth for now.
Yeah.
This is the book for you.
Ty and Luca will punch and kick your world—in the best way. ❤️🔥 Moon and stars, baby 🌙✨
This is q duet so Choke Hold here I come 🥊
“How the fuck did that happen?” His head whips between us several times, like he’s waiting for us to yell psyche!
“It was the tension.” I nod seriously. “Hatred often walks in disguise…”
Ty snorts and shakes his head. “The hatred was real.”
“Was.” I point out, then tilt my head with a smile. “Aw. Tyler. You expressed a feeling. Congratulations.”
He glares at me. “Hatred may still be real.”
“Oh please,” I scoff. “Tell me that when you’re balls deep in my-”
April 21, 2025
Contemporary MM
MMA Fighters
Rivals To Lovers
Hate To Love
VERY Grumpy/Sunshine
Opposites Attract
Fantastic Banter
🔥🔥🔥🔥
Oh I could on and on about how much I adored Ty and Luca. They were so much fun to read! Rivals to Lovers is a classic for a reason... the tension and banter you get in this kind of setting is fantastic. Added to that is the fact that these guys are hot headed (well at least one is) MMA fighters and its so on point.
Ty and Luca are rivals on their local MMA scene, and both are competing for a spot with a famous coach to boost their careers. Because they are so equal in skill, they are both selected to train under the same roof and boy... let the games begin. The back and forth between these two is so extremely entertaining. Each have the same goal, with very different thoughts on how to achieve that, and neither understand the other's method. At all. They are so opposite, but that's what makes them so great for each other.
There are lots of underlining issues that help form their personalities, so yes, its an emotional read and you feel for these guys, but its so well infused with humor that its not overwhelming. Its just good! I laughed a lot. I also felt for them, so much. The supporting characters are great, and I am very glad there is a second book to this, because I wants to know so much more, and hope to see some of their personal issues resolved. This book ends with a HFN and no real cliffhanger. You just want to know more.
************
I read this In practically one sitting. I loved this, and these two are gonna be in my mind a while. RTC and off to book two.
MMA Fighters
Rivals To Lovers
Hate To Love
VERY Grumpy/Sunshine
Opposites Attract
Fantastic Banter
🔥🔥🔥🔥
Oh I could on and on about how much I adored Ty and Luca. They were so much fun to read! Rivals to Lovers is a classic for a reason... the tension and banter you get in this kind of setting is fantastic. Added to that is the fact that these guys are hot headed (well at least one is) MMA fighters and its so on point.
Ty and Luca are rivals on their local MMA scene, and both are competing for a spot with a famous coach to boost their careers. Because they are so equal in skill, they are both selected to train under the same roof and boy... let the games begin. The back and forth between these two is so extremely entertaining. Each have the same goal, with very different thoughts on how to achieve that, and neither understand the other's method. At all. They are so opposite, but that's what makes them so great for each other.
There are lots of underlining issues that help form their personalities, so yes, its an emotional read and you feel for these guys, but its so well infused with humor that its not overwhelming. Its just good! I laughed a lot. I also felt for them, so much. The supporting characters are great, and I am very glad there is a second book to this, because I wants to know so much more, and hope to see some of their personal issues resolved. This book ends with a HFN and no real cliffhanger. You just want to know more.
************
I read this In practically one sitting. I loved this, and these two are gonna be in my mind a while. RTC and off to book two.
March 13, 2025
"For the first time, in a long time, I just see me. I feel like me. The walls aren’t going up, and the doors aren’t closing. And why Luca is the only one who has been able to unlock and open those doors, I may never know. But what I do know… is that something is brewing here. With him. And I’m starting to see it."
Oh my, I totally bloody loved Ty and Luca. My personal kryptonite is MM enemies/rivals to lovers, especially when the hate is strong and these two had it in spades! Congratulations Eve Holmes, Hooks In gave me all the damn feels.
Ty Roscoe and Luca Mitchell are both MMA cage fighters hoping to make it to the UFC. They are very evenly matched and are next level competitive with each other. When they are both selected to join an elite MMA gym, they have to learn to train and fight together towards a common UFC goal, which isn't easy when they absolutely despise each other.
Hooks In has so many of my fave tropes:
❣️enemies to lovers
❣️bi-awakening
❣️first times
❣️opposites attract
❣️found family
❣️all the steam
❣️all the feels
"We’ve attempted to take everything we could from each other, as ruthlessly as we could. And now, in this cage, we’re fueled by something different. Something that wasn’t there before. There’s a reason why losing to him today bothered me so much. And there’s a reason why he came here."
Hooks In is the first book in the author's No Holds Barred series, with book 2 (continuing Ty and Luca's story) coming out in late Spring 2024. So this book has a HFN but with no nasty cliff-hanger ending.
Highly recommended - running off to order the paperback now!
5 steamy stars.
Oh my, I totally bloody loved Ty and Luca. My personal kryptonite is MM enemies/rivals to lovers, especially when the hate is strong and these two had it in spades! Congratulations Eve Holmes, Hooks In gave me all the damn feels.
Ty Roscoe and Luca Mitchell are both MMA cage fighters hoping to make it to the UFC. They are very evenly matched and are next level competitive with each other. When they are both selected to join an elite MMA gym, they have to learn to train and fight together towards a common UFC goal, which isn't easy when they absolutely despise each other.
Hooks In has so many of my fave tropes:
❣️enemies to lovers
❣️bi-awakening
❣️first times
❣️opposites attract
❣️found family
❣️all the steam
❣️all the feels
"We’ve attempted to take everything we could from each other, as ruthlessly as we could. And now, in this cage, we’re fueled by something different. Something that wasn’t there before. There’s a reason why losing to him today bothered me so much. And there’s a reason why he came here."
Hooks In is the first book in the author's No Holds Barred series, with book 2 (continuing Ty and Luca's story) coming out in late Spring 2024. So this book has a HFN but with no nasty cliff-hanger ending.
Highly recommended - running off to order the paperback now!
5 steamy stars.
June 28, 2024
- MMA fighters
- rivals to lovers
- grumpy x sunshine
- forced proximity
- bi awakening
Rivals in and out of the cage for years, Luca and Ty are vying for the same spot at a former UFC fighter’s elite gym, in the hopes that he will pick one of them to train. When they both get invitations, Ty and Luca think they’ve finally gotten the last big one up on the other, only to show up and realize they are now teammates.
The rivalry between the two reaches new heights, but the more time spent around each other proves that maybe they don’t actually hate each other as much as they thought they did—there’s a fine line between love and hate after all.
Luca and Ty are truly opposites and I really loved their grumpy x sunshine dynamic. The chemistry between them was off the charts and I loved the banter and hate flirting that made it so much better when the tension between them finally snapped.
Hooks In was my first MMA sports romance, but I have to say I’m a big fan. So ready for Ty and Luca’s HEA in book 2!
- rivals to lovers
- grumpy x sunshine
- forced proximity
- bi awakening
Rivals in and out of the cage for years, Luca and Ty are vying for the same spot at a former UFC fighter’s elite gym, in the hopes that he will pick one of them to train. When they both get invitations, Ty and Luca think they’ve finally gotten the last big one up on the other, only to show up and realize they are now teammates.
The rivalry between the two reaches new heights, but the more time spent around each other proves that maybe they don’t actually hate each other as much as they thought they did—there’s a fine line between love and hate after all.
Luca and Ty are truly opposites and I really loved their grumpy x sunshine dynamic. The chemistry between them was off the charts and I loved the banter and hate flirting that made it so much better when the tension between them finally snapped.
Hooks In was my first MMA sports romance, but I have to say I’m a big fan. So ready for Ty and Luca’s HEA in book 2!
November 22, 2024
4+
Aww... jak ja się cieszę, że trafiłam na książki Eve Holmes 😍
Pisze w sposób, który do mnie ABSOLUTNIE przemawia (za innych się nie wypowiadam 😜) i sprawia, że film, który kręci mi się w głowie podczas czytania jest w full kolorze i w najlepszym z możliwym dźwięków 😁
To zupełnie inna historia, niż Tide Over. A jednocześnie tak mnie zahaczyła, że nie mogłam się od niej oderwać - i jak na pracujący tydzień, to naprawdę szybko ją przeczytałam 😁 A jak jeszcze dodam, że to romans sportowy i to w dodatku dotyczący MMA 👀, a ja go przeczytałam od deski do deski - łącznie ze scenami seksu (!!!) - to już chyba naprawdę wiele mówi 😁
Bohaterowie są pełnokrwiści i pełnowymiarowi, ich miłość i seks są takie, jak sport, w którym walczą - szorstkie, twarde, szybkie i w pewien sposób bez litości. A jednocześnie te delikatniejsze chwile, które niezmiernie rzadko się zdarzają, naprawdę pokazują, jak oni się kochają i jak daleką drogę przeszli od wrogów do kochanków.
Jeżeli ktoś liczy na pełno delikatności, subtelności, słodkości i uroczych chłopaków z serduszkami w oczach, to niech się za tę historię nawet nie bierze. To nie ta bajka.
"My eyes land on the moon, and I take in how bright it is.
The full moon.
Where light is born out of darkness.
I turn my head towards him, and he does the same.
As I look into his eyes, I feel comfortable and settled.
“Love you, fucker.”
He smiles, his eyes sparkling.
“Love you, asshole.”"
"“How was work?” I ask. “Even though you were technically supposed to take another day off…”
He brings his eyes back to me. “Good. Had a chance to talk to the guys. They understood.”
I nod with a soft smile. “They seem great.”
“Yeah.” Ty eyes me with a small smirk. “Jake invited me over for a barbecue this weekend.”
I gasp and my hand flies to my chest. “Tyler! You made a friend all on your own!”
He sighs. “Fuck you.”
“Ok.” I nod.
He sighs again. “He told me to bring my girlfriend, if I have one.”
“Oh?” I cock an eyebrow at him.
Ty just nods slowly. “So, this should be a fun surprise for him.”
I smile widely, and he smiles back."
Tiaaa... lecę dalej, bo zakończenie tego tomu to tylko HFN, HEA dopiero dostanę w drugim 😁
Aww... jak ja się cieszę, że trafiłam na książki Eve Holmes 😍
Pisze w sposób, który do mnie ABSOLUTNIE przemawia (za innych się nie wypowiadam 😜) i sprawia, że film, który kręci mi się w głowie podczas czytania jest w full kolorze i w najlepszym z możliwym dźwięków 😁
To zupełnie inna historia, niż Tide Over. A jednocześnie tak mnie zahaczyła, że nie mogłam się od niej oderwać - i jak na pracujący tydzień, to naprawdę szybko ją przeczytałam 😁 A jak jeszcze dodam, że to romans sportowy i to w dodatku dotyczący MMA 👀, a ja go przeczytałam od deski do deski - łącznie ze scenami seksu (!!!) - to już chyba naprawdę wiele mówi 😁
Bohaterowie są pełnokrwiści i pełnowymiarowi, ich miłość i seks są takie, jak sport, w którym walczą - szorstkie, twarde, szybkie i w pewien sposób bez litości. A jednocześnie te delikatniejsze chwile, które niezmiernie rzadko się zdarzają, naprawdę pokazują, jak oni się kochają i jak daleką drogę przeszli od wrogów do kochanków.
Jeżeli ktoś liczy na pełno delikatności, subtelności, słodkości i uroczych chłopaków z serduszkami w oczach, to niech się za tę historię nawet nie bierze. To nie ta bajka.
"My eyes land on the moon, and I take in how bright it is.
The full moon.
Where light is born out of darkness.
I turn my head towards him, and he does the same.
As I look into his eyes, I feel comfortable and settled.
“Love you, fucker.”
He smiles, his eyes sparkling.
“Love you, asshole.”"
"“How was work?” I ask. “Even though you were technically supposed to take another day off…”
He brings his eyes back to me. “Good. Had a chance to talk to the guys. They understood.”
I nod with a soft smile. “They seem great.”
“Yeah.” Ty eyes me with a small smirk. “Jake invited me over for a barbecue this weekend.”
I gasp and my hand flies to my chest. “Tyler! You made a friend all on your own!”
He sighs. “Fuck you.”
“Ok.” I nod.
He sighs again. “He told me to bring my girlfriend, if I have one.”
“Oh?” I cock an eyebrow at him.
Ty just nods slowly. “So, this should be a fun surprise for him.”
I smile widely, and he smiles back."
Tiaaa... lecę dalej, bo zakończenie tego tomu to tylko HFN, HEA dopiero dostanę w drugim 😁
February 8, 2024
Hooks In is the first book in Eve Holmes’s No Holds Barred duet. It’s a MM rivals to lovers romance that takes place in an MMA gym. Please note that this book ends on a happily for now, and the duet will end on a happily ever after with a planned release for spring 2024. As always, review the content/trigger warnings and always take care of yourself while reading. Here’s what you can expect from Ty and Luca:
- First person dual point of view
- Grumpy/sunshine and opposites attract
- Bi-awakening
- Banter, snark, sass, and dirty talk
- Found family
- Forced proximity
Synopsis: Ty Roscoe and Luca Mitchell each have one goal - to become the best MMA fighters they can be and make it to the UFC. Unfortunately, they’re also each other's biggest, most bitter rivals. When a retired championship fighter opens an elite MMA training facility, Ty and Luca both receive invitations to train. For the first time in their careers, they're on the same team. And they both have skills the other would benefit from, prompting their coach to pair them up daily to work on grappling and striking. As they continue to work together, tensions mount. But there’s a notoriously thin line between love and hate, and Ty and Luca are about to go flying over it.
I absolutely adored this book! All of the elements that the author, Eve Holmes, included worked extremely well together and made for a great rivals/enemies to lovers romance. I really enjoy this trope, but I find it can be very difficult to execute properly. I think Eve nailed it. Ty and Luca were fierce rivals, and there was a clear hatred between the two of them but throughout the duration of the story, you could see it gently morph into something more. I think this is very important when reading rivals to lovers, because too often, the switch flips so quickly it can give the reader whiplash. In this case, I adored watching the feelings change and develop between these two characters.
Speaking of characters, I loved them both! Luca was so bright and outgoing, truly making him the sunshine to Ty’s grumpy. His love of music, baking, and teaching physical education made him so much fun to get to know, but he also demonstrated that even the happiest people carry baggage with them. Ty was a grump, there’s no getting around that, but as we learn more about him and why he’s got so many walls up, I couldn’t help but root for him. His character development through the book was great to watch, and while he did lower some of his walls and open up a bit, he still remained himself. This opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine dynamic Ty and Luca had going on was the perfect recipe for brilliant chemistry and this came through in the bedroom (these two were on fire together), but also when they fought each other.
I really enjoyed the found family aspect of the MMA gym Ty and Luca belonged to. When Ty and Luca spend Christmas with some of their friends from the gym, Ty proclaims (just to us, of course), that it’s the best Christmas he’s ever had and I loved that. There was some great humor in this book, making for an entertaining read. I can’t wait for the conclusion of their story, so the countdown will definitely be on as we (im)patiently await for the second installment in the spring!
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
- First person dual point of view
- Grumpy/sunshine and opposites attract
- Bi-awakening
- Banter, snark, sass, and dirty talk
- Found family
- Forced proximity
Synopsis: Ty Roscoe and Luca Mitchell each have one goal - to become the best MMA fighters they can be and make it to the UFC. Unfortunately, they’re also each other's biggest, most bitter rivals. When a retired championship fighter opens an elite MMA training facility, Ty and Luca both receive invitations to train. For the first time in their careers, they're on the same team. And they both have skills the other would benefit from, prompting their coach to pair them up daily to work on grappling and striking. As they continue to work together, tensions mount. But there’s a notoriously thin line between love and hate, and Ty and Luca are about to go flying over it.
I laugh, and Ty shoots me another dirty look. Fuck, I love getting under his skin. It just gives me the warm fuzzies. Especially because I have something he needs.
I absolutely adored this book! All of the elements that the author, Eve Holmes, included worked extremely well together and made for a great rivals/enemies to lovers romance. I really enjoy this trope, but I find it can be very difficult to execute properly. I think Eve nailed it. Ty and Luca were fierce rivals, and there was a clear hatred between the two of them but throughout the duration of the story, you could see it gently morph into something more. I think this is very important when reading rivals to lovers, because too often, the switch flips so quickly it can give the reader whiplash. In this case, I adored watching the feelings change and develop between these two characters.
Speaking of characters, I loved them both! Luca was so bright and outgoing, truly making him the sunshine to Ty’s grumpy. His love of music, baking, and teaching physical education made him so much fun to get to know, but he also demonstrated that even the happiest people carry baggage with them. Ty was a grump, there’s no getting around that, but as we learn more about him and why he’s got so many walls up, I couldn’t help but root for him. His character development through the book was great to watch, and while he did lower some of his walls and open up a bit, he still remained himself. This opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine dynamic Ty and Luca had going on was the perfect recipe for brilliant chemistry and this came through in the bedroom (these two were on fire together), but also when they fought each other.
I really enjoyed the found family aspect of the MMA gym Ty and Luca belonged to. When Ty and Luca spend Christmas with some of their friends from the gym, Ty proclaims (just to us, of course), that it’s the best Christmas he’s ever had and I loved that. There was some great humor in this book, making for an entertaining read. I can’t wait for the conclusion of their story, so the countdown will definitely be on as we (im)patiently await for the second installment in the spring!
I step into him, sliding a hand around his waist. “I’ve been high since I moved here. You’re one hell of a drug, Mitchell.”
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 7, 2024
This was so good! Enemies to lovers is one of my favorite tropes and this book actually has 2two MMA fighters who despise each other. The reason for the hate is real, often it’s not easy to write a true enemies to lovers story. The thing is that often when you really hate someone this much without truly knowing them there can be other feelings mixed in that make everything confusing. That is certainly the case here.
Luca and Ty have been competitor’s for years. They often fight against each other and are always in first and second place, switching between the two because they are both so good. Ty is not a people person while Luca loves meeting and befriending everyone. Because they are complete opposites in their personalities and even one up each other in certain fighting styles, they cannot stand each other. They stand in each other’s way to accomplish their goals. When they both are recruited to a gym with a trainer that thinks they can make each other better fighters they are both extremely angry. But when they are forced to work together they have to admit they can make each other better. When attraction comes into play the tension builds and the fighting becomes so much more.
This was so fun to read. It has found family and the way they supported each other was everything. Ty is a loner and it’s understandable why that is. Luca seems like he has everything handed to him compared to Ty but there is a lot more happening in Luca’s life.
Luca was so funny, the way he egged Ty on, even in bed, was hilarious. He knew exactly what buttons to push. The sex scenes are very hot. These men went for it and they didn’t care who knew, they accepted their feelings for each other. I loved that there wasn’t much push and pull with them, especially for Ty, who was never with a man before.
I’ve never read a book about MMA fighters and it was so exciting. Every sports book lately is about hockey or football so this was something new and refreshing. This doesn’t end on a cliffhanger but it leaves you wanting more. I cannot wait for the next book!!!!
ARC received from author for review
All thoughts and opinions are my own
Luca and Ty have been competitor’s for years. They often fight against each other and are always in first and second place, switching between the two because they are both so good. Ty is not a people person while Luca loves meeting and befriending everyone. Because they are complete opposites in their personalities and even one up each other in certain fighting styles, they cannot stand each other. They stand in each other’s way to accomplish their goals. When they both are recruited to a gym with a trainer that thinks they can make each other better fighters they are both extremely angry. But when they are forced to work together they have to admit they can make each other better. When attraction comes into play the tension builds and the fighting becomes so much more.
This was so fun to read. It has found family and the way they supported each other was everything. Ty is a loner and it’s understandable why that is. Luca seems like he has everything handed to him compared to Ty but there is a lot more happening in Luca’s life.
Luca was so funny, the way he egged Ty on, even in bed, was hilarious. He knew exactly what buttons to push. The sex scenes are very hot. These men went for it and they didn’t care who knew, they accepted their feelings for each other. I loved that there wasn’t much push and pull with them, especially for Ty, who was never with a man before.
I’ve never read a book about MMA fighters and it was so exciting. Every sports book lately is about hockey or football so this was something new and refreshing. This doesn’t end on a cliffhanger but it leaves you wanting more. I cannot wait for the next book!!!!
ARC received from author for review
All thoughts and opinions are my own
February 7, 2024
Getting to Alpha read Luca and Ty’s journey was so much fun! At times I hated having to wait for a new chapter but it was totally worth it as I loved getting to know these two amazing characters!
If you are a fan of MMA this is a perfect book for you. Not only do we get an awesome bi-awakening, rivals-to-lovers romance, we also get a perfect immersion into the wonderful world of MMA (there is a glossary at the back for anyone who isn’t familiar with the sport)! This author did her research and knows her stuff! As a fan of MMA myself I couldn’t have asked for anything better!
Luca is a total Golden Retriever that just wants to have fun and do what he wants with his life! Ty is the complete opposite in our grumpy/sunshine combo and takes everything way too seriously! These two are the perfect balance for each other, training hard but adding a little bit of fun into the mix as well! And as we’ve come to expect from this author these two are hot!!! Their sexy scenes were amazing and really helped to show how their relationship progressed! And the banter! Perfection!
This is the first book in a duet and does end on a HFN (and a great one I might add)! I can’t wait to get back into Luca and Ty’s world! And see what the side characters are up to as well! If you enjoyed this author’s rockstar trilogy or this is a new to you author I absolutely recommend and hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
As a fun side note: in the collage I made for this book I put a picture of a tiger above a picture of cinnamon rolls. When I showed my friend who has not read this book my collage she said: “It looks like the tiger wants the cinnamon buns. It's perfect!”
If you’ve read this book you know exactly how perfect that statement actually is! If FOMO is getting to you I hope you read it and enjoy the journey!
If you are a fan of MMA this is a perfect book for you. Not only do we get an awesome bi-awakening, rivals-to-lovers romance, we also get a perfect immersion into the wonderful world of MMA (there is a glossary at the back for anyone who isn’t familiar with the sport)! This author did her research and knows her stuff! As a fan of MMA myself I couldn’t have asked for anything better!
Luca is a total Golden Retriever that just wants to have fun and do what he wants with his life! Ty is the complete opposite in our grumpy/sunshine combo and takes everything way too seriously! These two are the perfect balance for each other, training hard but adding a little bit of fun into the mix as well! And as we’ve come to expect from this author these two are hot!!! Their sexy scenes were amazing and really helped to show how their relationship progressed! And the banter! Perfection!
This is the first book in a duet and does end on a HFN (and a great one I might add)! I can’t wait to get back into Luca and Ty’s world! And see what the side characters are up to as well! If you enjoyed this author’s rockstar trilogy or this is a new to you author I absolutely recommend and hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
As a fun side note: in the collage I made for this book I put a picture of a tiger above a picture of cinnamon rolls. When I showed my friend who has not read this book my collage she said: “It looks like the tiger wants the cinnamon buns. It's perfect!”
If you’ve read this book you know exactly how perfect that statement actually is! If FOMO is getting to you I hope you read it and enjoy the journey!
March 27, 2024
I picked this book up due to some positive GR reviews and I’m glad I did. Really enjoyed it and will look for the second in the series when it’s out.
February 9, 2024
Hooks In follows two rival MMA fighters, Tyler and Luca. When they are both given the opportunity to train together by a retired MMA fighter, tensions rise even higher as the goal to getting to the UFC gets a little closer for both.
Tyler and Luca have opposite fighting styles which their coach recognizes. He has them train together so they can learn from each other and both become stronger fighters overall. Both are not pleased by this but know it’s their best shot to move up in the sport.
Tyler, my beloved. Tyler is stoic, doesn’t want to make friends, only has his eyes on the prize. He has walls about 100 feet tall and he guards himself very tightly. Meanwhile, Luca commands the attention of any room he walks in, he celebrates every win no matter how small, and takes pleasure in being surrounded by people.
As I look at him sitting across from me, I don’t think I need to ask that. Because the fact that he’s here at all speaks volumes. I thought he didn’t care, and he proved me wrong. And I know what the events of this day proved to me. I’ve got some serious feels for Ty Roscoe.
Polar opposites and yet so perfect for each other. I admit up until about 60% this was a bit slow for me. But from that point to the end had me hooked. The closer Tyler and Luca got with each other, the walls for both of them crumbled bit by bit.
I loved how they stayed competitive with one another even while their feelings were growing. I wish we had gotten a little more of seeing the feelings develop, I wanted more cute moments but I’m hopeful we will get that in book 2 since they will be established by that point! Overall though this book was a delight, and I am definitely a new fan of this author!
*I received an arc and this is my honest review
Tyler and Luca have opposite fighting styles which their coach recognizes. He has them train together so they can learn from each other and both become stronger fighters overall. Both are not pleased by this but know it’s their best shot to move up in the sport.
Tyler, my beloved. Tyler is stoic, doesn’t want to make friends, only has his eyes on the prize. He has walls about 100 feet tall and he guards himself very tightly. Meanwhile, Luca commands the attention of any room he walks in, he celebrates every win no matter how small, and takes pleasure in being surrounded by people.
As I look at him sitting across from me, I don’t think I need to ask that. Because the fact that he’s here at all speaks volumes. I thought he didn’t care, and he proved me wrong. And I know what the events of this day proved to me. I’ve got some serious feels for Ty Roscoe.
Polar opposites and yet so perfect for each other. I admit up until about 60% this was a bit slow for me. But from that point to the end had me hooked. The closer Tyler and Luca got with each other, the walls for both of them crumbled bit by bit.
I loved how they stayed competitive with one another even while their feelings were growing. I wish we had gotten a little more of seeing the feelings develop, I wanted more cute moments but I’m hopeful we will get that in book 2 since they will be established by that point! Overall though this book was a delight, and I am definitely a new fan of this author!
*I received an arc and this is my honest review
October 4, 2024
Looks like I‘m into MMA now 🙈
April 22, 2024
I have mixed feelings about this book. While I really enjoyed certain aspects, I also feel disappointed. The main couple was cute together, yet I struggled to fully invest myself in their story.
Overall, a decent read.
Overall, a decent read.
June 18, 2024
Hooks In is book one in the No Holds Barred duet. This MM romance story is about Luca and Tyler.
Luca and Ty are both MMA fighters. They are complete opposites and have a great grumpy/sunshine dynamic. I loved the tension between these two and it was so hot when they gave into their attraction. They were so great together, and I enjoyed watching them turn into so much more.
I think the author did a great job writing about the MMA sport, especially all the training and the action packed fights. What is also very cool is how the author included a glossary with MMA terms used throughout the story in the back of the book.
I really enjoyed this rivals/enemies to lovers story. I cannot wait to read the second book and I look forward to seeing the conclusion to Luca and Tyler’s story.
Luca and Ty are both MMA fighters. They are complete opposites and have a great grumpy/sunshine dynamic. I loved the tension between these two and it was so hot when they gave into their attraction. They were so great together, and I enjoyed watching them turn into so much more.
I think the author did a great job writing about the MMA sport, especially all the training and the action packed fights. What is also very cool is how the author included a glossary with MMA terms used throughout the story in the back of the book.
I really enjoyed this rivals/enemies to lovers story. I cannot wait to read the second book and I look forward to seeing the conclusion to Luca and Tyler’s story.
February 4, 2024
Hooks In by Eve Holmes is the first book in the No Holds Barred duet.
My love for this book knows no bounds. From the very first chapter I knew that Hooks In would be a 5 star and that it would be something really special.
Luca and Tyler...urghhh...I love them so much! They were so different from each other and at the same time they made so much sense together. I'm not someone who laughs a lot when I read, but these two made me laugh and smile from start to finish. Luca had the perfect nickname for Tyler and that made for some really funny moments. And as well as being funny, they were also moving. I felt so much for Tyler, who was taken out of his comfort zone throughout the story after being awakened by Luca, his rival. There was a great vulnerability in Ty that resonated strongly with me.
Tyler and Luca were really hot together. There was a chemistry and a burning desire between them that transcended the pages. The build-up to their first encounter made it all the more explosive. There was a ton of emotion in each of the sexy scenes and it was one more factor that made their pull more real.
Eve Holmes knows her MMA and it showed from the very first lines, which quickly plunged us into the heart of the action. I know nothing at all about MMA. Despite this, I didn't feel overwhelmed by all the unfamiliar terms specific to the sport. I was even able to imagine each fight and how it would unfold. There's also a neat glossary at the end of the book explaining the different terms used in the sport.
Eve hit a home run with this low angst, rivals to lovers story and I'm obsessed with Tyler and Luca. I'm glad we'll be getting a second book, because I'm not ready to let them go.
My love for this book knows no bounds. From the very first chapter I knew that Hooks In would be a 5 star and that it would be something really special.
Luca and Tyler...urghhh...I love them so much! They were so different from each other and at the same time they made so much sense together. I'm not someone who laughs a lot when I read, but these two made me laugh and smile from start to finish. Luca had the perfect nickname for Tyler and that made for some really funny moments. And as well as being funny, they were also moving. I felt so much for Tyler, who was taken out of his comfort zone throughout the story after being awakened by Luca, his rival. There was a great vulnerability in Ty that resonated strongly with me.
Tyler and Luca were really hot together. There was a chemistry and a burning desire between them that transcended the pages. The build-up to their first encounter made it all the more explosive. There was a ton of emotion in each of the sexy scenes and it was one more factor that made their pull more real.
Eve Holmes knows her MMA and it showed from the very first lines, which quickly plunged us into the heart of the action. I know nothing at all about MMA. Despite this, I didn't feel overwhelmed by all the unfamiliar terms specific to the sport. I was even able to imagine each fight and how it would unfold. There's also a neat glossary at the end of the book explaining the different terms used in the sport.
Eve hit a home run with this low angst, rivals to lovers story and I'm obsessed with Tyler and Luca. I'm glad we'll be getting a second book, because I'm not ready to let them go.
February 10, 2024
They can’t stand each other. Both MMA fighters, rivals, both fight for a spot at an elite MMA gym.
After their last battle, Ty won and is certain to be placed.
He didn’t expect it but Luca got a call for the spot, ha! He knew he was the best!
What they didn’t know, both got the call to join the gym.
Ty is a loner, he doesn’t need anyone, he is the only one he can count on. He’s his worst enemy. He has a goal and that’s it. He’s in total control.
Luca is a different type, he’s fun, talks with everyone, and has some great moves.
They have to work together, only it’s almost impossible, there’s so much anger, it’s hurtful.
Ty can’t stand Luca, and Luca? He’s in trouble with all these feelings he has for Ty.
I can spoil there’s some light at the end of the tunnel!
It’s a strongly written story, with feelings all over, and the characters are written with an admirable consistency.
There’s a bunch of background info with the MMA (awesome btw) and there’s so much to learn about these guys. I understand the duet concept.
It was all super entertaining. Can’t wait for the next installment!
After their last battle, Ty won and is certain to be placed.
He didn’t expect it but Luca got a call for the spot, ha! He knew he was the best!
What they didn’t know, both got the call to join the gym.
Ty is a loner, he doesn’t need anyone, he is the only one he can count on. He’s his worst enemy. He has a goal and that’s it. He’s in total control.
Luca is a different type, he’s fun, talks with everyone, and has some great moves.
They have to work together, only it’s almost impossible, there’s so much anger, it’s hurtful.
Ty can’t stand Luca, and Luca? He’s in trouble with all these feelings he has for Ty.
I can spoil there’s some light at the end of the tunnel!
It’s a strongly written story, with feelings all over, and the characters are written with an admirable consistency.
There’s a bunch of background info with the MMA (awesome btw) and there’s so much to learn about these guys. I understand the duet concept.
It was all super entertaining. Can’t wait for the next installment!
May 10, 2025
Rating: 5/5 🌟
Spice: 3.5/5 🌶️
Heroes: Luca and Ty
This was one of those books that crept up on me. When I first started it, I was enjoying it and the characters, but I wasn't quite obsessed. I don't know exactly when it happened or why but at some point, somewhere in the middle of the book, I realized that I was deeply invested in Ty and Luca, their journey, their relationship, and their training and fights. Like some sort of switch happened and I went from liking the book to these are my babies and they must be protected at all costs. It's a pretty quick turn from enemies to lust but they still maintained their dislike for a bit. It's a slow burn to the feelings and emotions. I'm always going to be a sucker for enemies (or dislike) to lovers and when you toss in that they still dislike each other even after starting to hook up...works for me almost every single time.
I don't know why I was putting off this duet for so long. I do know that I'm obsessed and will be jumping into book 2 as soon as it arrives. I had to order it and the latest two books by the author after reading Hooks In. I just know they are books I'll want the physical copies of so I can annotate them.
Spice: 3.5/5 🌶️
Heroes: Luca and Ty
This was one of those books that crept up on me. When I first started it, I was enjoying it and the characters, but I wasn't quite obsessed. I don't know exactly when it happened or why but at some point, somewhere in the middle of the book, I realized that I was deeply invested in Ty and Luca, their journey, their relationship, and their training and fights. Like some sort of switch happened and I went from liking the book to these are my babies and they must be protected at all costs. It's a pretty quick turn from enemies to lust but they still maintained their dislike for a bit. It's a slow burn to the feelings and emotions. I'm always going to be a sucker for enemies (or dislike) to lovers and when you toss in that they still dislike each other even after starting to hook up...works for me almost every single time.
I don't know why I was putting off this duet for so long. I do know that I'm obsessed and will be jumping into book 2 as soon as it arrives. I had to order it and the latest two books by the author after reading Hooks In. I just know they are books I'll want the physical copies of so I can annotate them.
February 23, 2024
Hooks In is the first book in the No Holds Barred series.
This is you your vibe if you like:
MMA Fighters
Rivals to lovers
Grumpy Sunshine
forced Proximity
Banter
I've not read Eve before so I wasn't sure what to expect when I started this book, the blurb really piqued my interest. And having binge read this book it's safe to say I enjoyed it!
The vibes between Ty and Luca made me snort so hard they are complete opposites in personality and I was genuinely entertained by their differences and how it worked into the story. But the tension and chemistry was brilliant.
Grumpy/sunshine is a favourite trope for me and I loved Ty from the start but Luca with his golden retriever sunshine energy makes it hard to not like his character. I feel like there was some great growth within this story, but I'm definitely excited to see where book two takes us and whats in store for these two!
This is you your vibe if you like:
MMA Fighters
Rivals to lovers
Grumpy Sunshine
forced Proximity
Banter
I've not read Eve before so I wasn't sure what to expect when I started this book, the blurb really piqued my interest. And having binge read this book it's safe to say I enjoyed it!
The vibes between Ty and Luca made me snort so hard they are complete opposites in personality and I was genuinely entertained by their differences and how it worked into the story. But the tension and chemistry was brilliant.
Grumpy/sunshine is a favourite trope for me and I loved Ty from the start but Luca with his golden retriever sunshine energy makes it hard to not like his character. I feel like there was some great growth within this story, but I'm definitely excited to see where book two takes us and whats in store for these two!
February 17, 2024
Ty and Luca have been nothing but rivals for years, always fighting and kicking each other out of the top spot. They have Just another fight together except this time they need to prove to the ex UFC fighter in the crowd why he needs to choose one of them for the last spot to train in his gym.
What they didn’t expect was to walk into that gym and realise that they were both chosen. Ty and Luca need to put their differences aside because much to their dismay they have something each other needs.
This is book 1 in a duet and ends on a HFN. And damn what a read this was! I loved absolutely every second of it.
The tension, the fighting, the sass and banter is PERFECT! These boys had me smiling and kicking my feet. I CANT WAIT for the next one.
Luca is just a ray of sunshine, easy and carefree, quite literally doing everything and anything he wants, constantly pressing all of Ty’s buttons as if he’s an Xbox controller just to get a reaction from him.
Ty is broody and reserved, only ever keeping to himself, the only way he thinks can protect himself from his past creeping back in is to make sure he has total control.
My sweet baby Ty, I just wanted to hug that man 🥺
And the spice?! The kinks?! Goodbye. 🫠🫠
“Get tested and we’ll have a cum party. I’m good to go.”
What they didn’t expect was to walk into that gym and realise that they were both chosen. Ty and Luca need to put their differences aside because much to their dismay they have something each other needs.
This is book 1 in a duet and ends on a HFN. And damn what a read this was! I loved absolutely every second of it.
The tension, the fighting, the sass and banter is PERFECT! These boys had me smiling and kicking my feet. I CANT WAIT for the next one.
Luca is just a ray of sunshine, easy and carefree, quite literally doing everything and anything he wants, constantly pressing all of Ty’s buttons as if he’s an Xbox controller just to get a reaction from him.
Ty is broody and reserved, only ever keeping to himself, the only way he thinks can protect himself from his past creeping back in is to make sure he has total control.
My sweet baby Ty, I just wanted to hug that man 🥺
And the spice?! The kinks?! Goodbye. 🫠🫠
“Get tested and we’ll have a cum party. I’m good to go.”
March 25, 2024
I LOVE IT. I was very excited about this book because I haven't read a book on MMA, but I knew I would love it. I didn't expect it to be Slowburn, to be honest, I'm not a big Slowburn lover, but it's perfectly written in this book. Every emotion of the characters is beautifully rendered I REALLY FELL IN LOVE WITH THIS BOOK. AND I'M PROUD OF MYSELF for finding up with a book like this.
February 3, 2024
THAT’S HOW YOU WRITE A SUCCESSFUL SPORTS ROMANCE!🤤
Luca and Ty’s story is just a beauty treat to everyone🥰
They are MMA fighters, they hate each other for years and only meet during fights. And in the cage anything is possible, they battle each time for first and second place, they’re the best in what they do.
Until one day, they find themselves training in the same gym, cause a huge opportunity arises that can potentially have them going pro ✨and through all the hatred they start sparkle✨
They are way different from one another, portraying themselves differently, but as we get to know them, we get to understand their pasts, their stories and their fears.
Luca is outgoing, always smiling and living life to the fullest while Ty is so closed off, you wouldn’t even know if he’s breathing sometimes!
I LOVED how Luca helps Ty grow out of his own ways, how they learn to help each other in their lives but mostly in their sport, which helps them grow into their relationship and accept each other for who they are.
These two guys will steal your heart so fast, brooding Ty had a hard shell outside, but you know what they say🤷🏼♀️ hard on the outside but gooey on the inside🥹 and Luca is the most precious being to ever live and he just needs his Tiger to show him he’s not only good enough, but that he’s the best🫠
This book is book 1 in the No Holds Barred duet, we are clearly not done with the story and I’M SO HAPPY cause I need more of them, I’ll never have enough😭
⚠️I received this book as an ARC - advanced reader copy, in exchange for an honest review, so this is it, my immense love for this book is true.
Luca and Ty’s story is just a beauty treat to everyone🥰
They are MMA fighters, they hate each other for years and only meet during fights. And in the cage anything is possible, they battle each time for first and second place, they’re the best in what they do.
Until one day, they find themselves training in the same gym, cause a huge opportunity arises that can potentially have them going pro ✨and through all the hatred they start sparkle✨
They are way different from one another, portraying themselves differently, but as we get to know them, we get to understand their pasts, their stories and their fears.
Luca is outgoing, always smiling and living life to the fullest while Ty is so closed off, you wouldn’t even know if he’s breathing sometimes!
I LOVED how Luca helps Ty grow out of his own ways, how they learn to help each other in their lives but mostly in their sport, which helps them grow into their relationship and accept each other for who they are.
These two guys will steal your heart so fast, brooding Ty had a hard shell outside, but you know what they say🤷🏼♀️ hard on the outside but gooey on the inside🥹 and Luca is the most precious being to ever live and he just needs his Tiger to show him he’s not only good enough, but that he’s the best🫠
This book is book 1 in the No Holds Barred duet, we are clearly not done with the story and I’M SO HAPPY cause I need more of them, I’ll never have enough😭
⚠️I received this book as an ARC - advanced reader copy, in exchange for an honest review, so this is it, my immense love for this book is true.
October 30, 2024
“I understand rivalry. I’ve had my fair share of it. But like I said before, you two can learn a lot from each other. I’m not asking you to be friends, or to even like each other. Just be open to learning together. There’s a reason you were both constantly riding number one and two in the rankings. You’re the missing pieces to each other’s puzzle.”
I loved the dynamic between Ty and Luca. I always say you can't have this much animosity between two people without some tension build up and these two had heaps of it. Also the grumpy/sunshine formula is always a win for me.
Can't wait for the next book.
I loved the dynamic between Ty and Luca. I always say you can't have this much animosity between two people without some tension build up and these two had heaps of it. Also the grumpy/sunshine formula is always a win for me.
Can't wait for the next book.
August 12, 2024
Yes, well, I found out that I have a favorite type when it comes to my book couples.
Enemies to lovers? ✔️
Grumpy/Sunshine ✔️ ✔️
A couple who still throws shade at one another even after catching feelings? ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ This one right here gets me every time!
This book had all that and more.
Luca is quite the character.. literally and figuratively. And I absolutely adored his quirky over the top personality. The random thoughts he spoke out loud. (Tiger facts included). The stress baking. The fast quips only he understood and found hilarious. The way he joked his way out of everything but felt so deeply.
If you haven't figured it out yet, I think Luca may have wormed his way into one of my favorite character spots. 🤯
Ty, on the other hand, was a bit more complex. He was quiet and broody. He put so much pressure on himself. Always keeping his mind and body busy so he never fell back into old bad habits. He was driven and goal focused through and through. And the only time he truly let go was with Luca.
Him and Luca pushed each other's buttons. And, my goodness, did they push each others buttons. I think Luca lived for it.
Pushing each other to do better and be better in every way on and off the mat.
And, speaking of on and off the mat. Day-Um, them MMA boys know how to get down and dirty. 👀 Come on, you know what I mean! Okay, I'm just going to say it... These two had an extreme fascination with each others cum and I was 100% there for it! Like 100%!! 🫦🥵
“And when you’re done filling my ass, you’re going to eat me out again, aren’t you?” My pulse quickens as I look into his eyes, and I just nod. He brings his head down, lightly brushing his lips over mine. “Then you’ll give me a taste.”
Yup. Yes. 100% I'm telling you! 👏👀
Annnyyywaaayys. This book was amazing, a must-read, and I'm off to book 2!
Enemies to lovers? ✔️
Grumpy/Sunshine ✔️ ✔️
A couple who still throws shade at one another even after catching feelings? ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ This one right here gets me every time!
This book had all that and more.
Luca is quite the character.. literally and figuratively. And I absolutely adored his quirky over the top personality. The random thoughts he spoke out loud. (Tiger facts included). The stress baking. The fast quips only he understood and found hilarious. The way he joked his way out of everything but felt so deeply.
If you haven't figured it out yet, I think Luca may have wormed his way into one of my favorite character spots. 🤯
Ty, on the other hand, was a bit more complex. He was quiet and broody. He put so much pressure on himself. Always keeping his mind and body busy so he never fell back into old bad habits. He was driven and goal focused through and through. And the only time he truly let go was with Luca.
Him and Luca pushed each other's buttons. And, my goodness, did they push each others buttons. I think Luca lived for it.
Pushing each other to do better and be better in every way on and off the mat.
And, speaking of on and off the mat. Day-Um, them MMA boys know how to get down and dirty. 👀 Come on, you know what I mean! Okay, I'm just going to say it... These two had an extreme fascination with each others cum and I was 100% there for it! Like 100%!! 🫦🥵
“And when you’re done filling my ass, you’re going to eat me out again, aren’t you?” My pulse quickens as I look into his eyes, and I just nod. He brings his head down, lightly brushing his lips over mine. “Then you’ll give me a taste.”
Yup. Yes. 100% I'm telling you! 👏👀
Annnyyywaaayys. This book was amazing, a must-read, and I'm off to book 2!
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