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Fierce
Authore Note: An updated edition will be released 4/3/2018
Three years ago, Tori beat the wrong man. Her MMA training partner, nursing a bruised ego, snapped—shattering her trust and confidence.
Now, she's putting herself through college, avoiding all things fight related, and keeping her fists to herself. That is, until her uncle's failing health draws her back to his gym and her old pounding grounds. With her demons still haunting the cage, she's determined to keep the wall she's so carefully constructed between the past and present.
Until pro-fighter Max Estrada saunters into her life.
The temptation to go glove-to-glove with the sexy Columbian is too much, drawing her back into the world of MMA—a world where her ex-partner reigns as current Middleweight Champion. The secret they share is a liability to his career, and he'll do anything to keep her quiet. If she wants her old life back, and a future with the fighter she's fallen for, she'll have to do more than just survive. With her life on the ropes, she'll have to face her past and fight like she's never fought before.
About FIERCE:
"A unique twist on the fighter trope-- FIERCE is a compelling, original read with my favorite kind of heroine (a kick-ass one)."
- New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Cora Carmack
Three years ago, Tori beat the wrong man. Her MMA training partner, nursing a bruised ego, snapped—shattering her trust and confidence.
Now, she's putting herself through college, avoiding all things fight related, and keeping her fists to herself. That is, until her uncle's failing health draws her back to his gym and her old pounding grounds. With her demons still haunting the cage, she's determined to keep the wall she's so carefully constructed between the past and present.
Until pro-fighter Max Estrada saunters into her life.
The temptation to go glove-to-glove with the sexy Columbian is too much, drawing her back into the world of MMA—a world where her ex-partner reigns as current Middleweight Champion. The secret they share is a liability to his career, and he'll do anything to keep her quiet. If she wants her old life back, and a future with the fighter she's fallen for, she'll have to do more than just survive. With her life on the ropes, she'll have to face her past and fight like she's never fought before.
About FIERCE:
"A unique twist on the fighter trope-- FIERCE is a compelling, original read with my favorite kind of heroine (a kick-ass one)."
- New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Cora Carmack
Unknown Binding
First published August 11, 2014
2 people are currently reading
510 people want to read
About the author
L.G. Kelso
1 book59 followersL.G. Kelso writes authentic sports fiction about characters falling in love with combat sports and also each other. She's a fan of anything that bashes gender stereotypes, and she can be found in her MMA gym when not writing.
Visit her website at http://www.lgkelso.com for more information about her and upcoming projects, including another book in the Whatever It Takes universe. She can also be found on twitter @lgkelso
Visit her website at http://www.lgkelso.com for more information about her and upcoming projects, including another book in the Whatever It Takes universe. She can also be found on twitter @lgkelso
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
August 16, 2014
What a fresh take on the MMA. This book is from the woman’s POV and she is the MMA fighter. From the first page to the last I just ate this book up. I like that more authors are writing very strong female character lately and Tori Rhoads is certainly that.
When we meet Tori she is trying to live a normal life that doesn’t involve her fist after two tragic things happened 3 years ago. Problem is that just isn’t in her DNA. When she loses her job as a waitress after defending herself and another waitress, to make ends meat for rent and college she ends up taking a job back in a gym that so happens to be the one where she was trained before which is run by her uncle and where the cute librarian, Max Estrada, she met on campus also happens to be in training.
All the training and fights scenes are written in such detail you can actually visualize every move as its being made. Towards the end with the actual fight scenes the author doesn’t hold back on giving us a visual of the blood and gore that happens in the octagon.
This book had it all – there were some very funny moments throughout and also some very serious ones with showing us that not all men think women should be in a man’s sport and the ugly side of what those men are willing to do. The romance wasn’t front and center but it was a slow and steady throughout and was enough to satisfy. It had a great secondary cast of characters from the good to the bad.
If you’re looking for something different with a strong female character but yet still has vulnerabilities and a great story I recommend giving this author a try.
When we meet Tori she is trying to live a normal life that doesn’t involve her fist after two tragic things happened 3 years ago. Problem is that just isn’t in her DNA. When she loses her job as a waitress after defending herself and another waitress, to make ends meat for rent and college she ends up taking a job back in a gym that so happens to be the one where she was trained before which is run by her uncle and where the cute librarian, Max Estrada, she met on campus also happens to be in training.
All the training and fights scenes are written in such detail you can actually visualize every move as its being made. Towards the end with the actual fight scenes the author doesn’t hold back on giving us a visual of the blood and gore that happens in the octagon.
This book had it all – there were some very funny moments throughout and also some very serious ones with showing us that not all men think women should be in a man’s sport and the ugly side of what those men are willing to do. The romance wasn’t front and center but it was a slow and steady throughout and was enough to satisfy. It had a great secondary cast of characters from the good to the bad.
If you’re looking for something different with a strong female character but yet still has vulnerabilities and a great story I recommend giving this author a try.
November 14, 2015
I usually prefer books I read to have more then one POV as I feel u get more from the book but I must admit I really enjoyed this story from only her POV. What a strong character to over come all that she did. Max was a really great guy and the overall story and characters had great depth. A definite story you wont be disappointed with.
September 17, 2016
Conquering Personal Demons
Wasn't quite what I expected but I really enjoyed it. I need to see if Shane got his story. If not, this is a book perfect on it's own, but begging for a series.
Wasn't quite what I expected but I really enjoyed it. I need to see if Shane got his story. If not, this is a book perfect on it's own, but begging for a series.
November 18, 2017
I really enjoyed this book . I was going through all the list for female fighters and yours was exactly what I was looking for . I went through lots of list ! and not many came close too what I was looking for however your book hit the target ! completely . Thank you for all your hard work. I'll definitely be looking out for your next work ~ love your new reader/follower .
August 14, 2014
Where do I even begin with this book? I absolutely LOVED it. It was refreshing, realistic, heartfelt and powerful. The characters were so well written and brought to life off the pages of this book. The storyline was believable and I stayed up till the wee morning hours to finish this book! For a debut novel, this was fantastic and I cannot wait to see what LG Kelso has in store for us in the future!
Let’s talk about these well rounded characters. Tori was such a strong female lead. It wasn’t just because of her fighting skills but because she had such a big heart. Her determination was inspirational. When life was horrible to her, she tried to re-evaluate and see what else she could accomplish in life. Yet with all true dreams and passions, you cannot help but come full circle to what you were meant to do. In this case, she was meant to be a fighter, a leader of women in the MMA, a role that she played so well. Max is definitely book boyfriend material! I mean who wouldn’t swoon over this man, librarian by day and MMA fighter by night. I don’t know about you but that is one sexy combination in my mind! It was refreshing to read about a fighter who has a sweet and compassionate side. Max had a great balance of all the qualities, without becoming an alpha male determined to conquer. Max and Tori’s personalities were perfect for each other, both willing to do what it takes to make it through sacrifice and self-discipline but unwilling to trample those around them to get there. Then we have Will. He is such a well written villain. I found myself so angry at him and his lies. I just wanted to slap him across the face and wipe his smug smile off. The other secondary characters were great! Sean was hilarious. That boy’s personality is begging for his own book! Leah was a great friend and roommate for Tori. All the guys at the gym and Tori’s family added to the story but never took away from the storyline!
You can have a great set of characters but it is the plot that brings them to life and allows them to thrive. LG Kelso accomplished that so well. When the story opens, Tori is working at a diner and subsequently fired for defending herself and co-worker from a grabby drunk patron. As a result she encounters a bit of trouble on the way home. Max, a patron of the diner, comes to her rescue and delivers her home safely, both assuming that their paths will most likely not cross again. As the story develops, their paths continue to cross, implementing each other deeply in one another’s lives. Tori finds another job, but lo and behold, it is working the front desk at her old gym, the same one that contains her memories of trauma and heartache. Desperate for an income, she takes the job, planning to leave as soon as she finds something more suitable to the life she feels she must lead, yet she is sucked in to her beloved MMA world. I loved watching her path to self-discovery. The way she was able to rekindle her dreams and overcome her demons was powerful. The easy way out would be to work in the business world like she was planning, yet she is a fighter, both literally and figuratively. She was determined to allow her fighting community to sharpen her but not rely on them. At times I found her independence and silence about her past from the other fighters a bit frustrating but in retrospect it makes sense why she did it. It was a true character point. I love that she was a strong woman who could handle the world around her. She didn’t need to be saved. Her relationship with Max was on a level playing field and that fact alone was so wonderful to see. In a world of characters and storylines with needy situations and dependent personalities, this book was refreshing. They both had issues and scars, but they were strong enough to rise above in their own way.
I could go on and on but you should just read this book! An incredible debut novel. I would have to say that LG Kelso is now on my one-click list!
Let’s talk about these well rounded characters. Tori was such a strong female lead. It wasn’t just because of her fighting skills but because she had such a big heart. Her determination was inspirational. When life was horrible to her, she tried to re-evaluate and see what else she could accomplish in life. Yet with all true dreams and passions, you cannot help but come full circle to what you were meant to do. In this case, she was meant to be a fighter, a leader of women in the MMA, a role that she played so well. Max is definitely book boyfriend material! I mean who wouldn’t swoon over this man, librarian by day and MMA fighter by night. I don’t know about you but that is one sexy combination in my mind! It was refreshing to read about a fighter who has a sweet and compassionate side. Max had a great balance of all the qualities, without becoming an alpha male determined to conquer. Max and Tori’s personalities were perfect for each other, both willing to do what it takes to make it through sacrifice and self-discipline but unwilling to trample those around them to get there. Then we have Will. He is such a well written villain. I found myself so angry at him and his lies. I just wanted to slap him across the face and wipe his smug smile off. The other secondary characters were great! Sean was hilarious. That boy’s personality is begging for his own book! Leah was a great friend and roommate for Tori. All the guys at the gym and Tori’s family added to the story but never took away from the storyline!
You can have a great set of characters but it is the plot that brings them to life and allows them to thrive. LG Kelso accomplished that so well. When the story opens, Tori is working at a diner and subsequently fired for defending herself and co-worker from a grabby drunk patron. As a result she encounters a bit of trouble on the way home. Max, a patron of the diner, comes to her rescue and delivers her home safely, both assuming that their paths will most likely not cross again. As the story develops, their paths continue to cross, implementing each other deeply in one another’s lives. Tori finds another job, but lo and behold, it is working the front desk at her old gym, the same one that contains her memories of trauma and heartache. Desperate for an income, she takes the job, planning to leave as soon as she finds something more suitable to the life she feels she must lead, yet she is sucked in to her beloved MMA world. I loved watching her path to self-discovery. The way she was able to rekindle her dreams and overcome her demons was powerful. The easy way out would be to work in the business world like she was planning, yet she is a fighter, both literally and figuratively. She was determined to allow her fighting community to sharpen her but not rely on them. At times I found her independence and silence about her past from the other fighters a bit frustrating but in retrospect it makes sense why she did it. It was a true character point. I love that she was a strong woman who could handle the world around her. She didn’t need to be saved. Her relationship with Max was on a level playing field and that fact alone was so wonderful to see. In a world of characters and storylines with needy situations and dependent personalities, this book was refreshing. They both had issues and scars, but they were strong enough to rise above in their own way.
I could go on and on but you should just read this book! An incredible debut novel. I would have to say that LG Kelso is now on my one-click list!
August 14, 2014
The old me and my old dreams were fermented in the bloodstains, and as I had feared, the good memories had been overwhelmed by only the bad, and those nightmares still haunted this space."
Fierce by L.G. Kelso is a story of struggle, of trying to face the fears that one has from a failure and rise above them in order to succeed in what matters the most, happiness. Tori is a female MMA fighter, who had one bad fight where she was severely injured and promised her parents that she would walk away from the one passion that she had and take the safe road in both college and love. Tori spends her days working at a diner, until she is fired that is, and going to school for business, something that seems to bore her. Until one night when a drunk customer gets to handsy and Tori defends herself and her co-worker by punching the guy out, causing her boss to let her go. The search for a new job in order to pay the bills leads her to her old MMA gym, the one that her Uncle Jeff owns and that is when her struggle of whether or not to return to the life of a MMA fighter truly begins.
Max is a sexy but mysterious customer at the diner, who comes in for pie, sometimes with a book, sometimes without but always with a friendly disposition. Although Tori has some steamy thoughts about the hottie, she knows she will never see him again when she is fired, that is until she takes the secretarial job at her uncle's gym, where he trains. She also discovers that Max is a librarian at her school, something she believes is a contradiction to his MMA fighting personality.
Tori begins training with the fighters at her Uncle's gym regularly but refuses to get into the ring, and especially alone because she is unable to shake the fear that her former friend Will, also a renowned MMA fighter put in her head, later causing her to freeze and lose her last injury induced fight. Max continually tries to break through the tough exterior that Tori puts up, but she refuses to let him in on her deepest secret, what Will did to her, that is until she breaks down and commits to her first fight since she tore her ACL, and Will returns to her gym when Jeff unexpectedly leaves for a family emergency.
With the guys at the gym rallying around her, confident that she can take the fight, Tori works hard to train but with Will in the gym, making offhanded comments and his trainer, who is anti-woman in MMA, it seems that Tori faces her fears even more now then she did before. Trying to shut out Will's attempts to rattle her, Tori focuses as much as she can, but without truly letting go of the past she will never truly be able to move on.
While Max and Tori become closer and closer, working toward a relationship (or so the reader continues to hope), the fight also looms on the horizon. The title fight between Max and Will, a fight that scares Tori is the same night as her return to the ring. It is there where the drama begins and with each page turned, I wondered if she would be able to over-come her fears, if she would be able to stand up to Will and if she would be able to return to her true passion in life. And I was far from disappointed. Although the end of the book was not gift-wrapped, it was a happy ending all the same and I would highly recommend this book to others, it was a 3.5 read for me. The fact that it was not your typical MMA fighter book drew me in and keep me intrigued until the very last sentence.
Fierce by L.G. Kelso is a story of struggle, of trying to face the fears that one has from a failure and rise above them in order to succeed in what matters the most, happiness. Tori is a female MMA fighter, who had one bad fight where she was severely injured and promised her parents that she would walk away from the one passion that she had and take the safe road in both college and love. Tori spends her days working at a diner, until she is fired that is, and going to school for business, something that seems to bore her. Until one night when a drunk customer gets to handsy and Tori defends herself and her co-worker by punching the guy out, causing her boss to let her go. The search for a new job in order to pay the bills leads her to her old MMA gym, the one that her Uncle Jeff owns and that is when her struggle of whether or not to return to the life of a MMA fighter truly begins.
Max is a sexy but mysterious customer at the diner, who comes in for pie, sometimes with a book, sometimes without but always with a friendly disposition. Although Tori has some steamy thoughts about the hottie, she knows she will never see him again when she is fired, that is until she takes the secretarial job at her uncle's gym, where he trains. She also discovers that Max is a librarian at her school, something she believes is a contradiction to his MMA fighting personality.
Tori begins training with the fighters at her Uncle's gym regularly but refuses to get into the ring, and especially alone because she is unable to shake the fear that her former friend Will, also a renowned MMA fighter put in her head, later causing her to freeze and lose her last injury induced fight. Max continually tries to break through the tough exterior that Tori puts up, but she refuses to let him in on her deepest secret, what Will did to her, that is until she breaks down and commits to her first fight since she tore her ACL, and Will returns to her gym when Jeff unexpectedly leaves for a family emergency.
With the guys at the gym rallying around her, confident that she can take the fight, Tori works hard to train but with Will in the gym, making offhanded comments and his trainer, who is anti-woman in MMA, it seems that Tori faces her fears even more now then she did before. Trying to shut out Will's attempts to rattle her, Tori focuses as much as she can, but without truly letting go of the past she will never truly be able to move on.
While Max and Tori become closer and closer, working toward a relationship (or so the reader continues to hope), the fight also looms on the horizon. The title fight between Max and Will, a fight that scares Tori is the same night as her return to the ring. It is there where the drama begins and with each page turned, I wondered if she would be able to over-come her fears, if she would be able to stand up to Will and if she would be able to return to her true passion in life. And I was far from disappointed. Although the end of the book was not gift-wrapped, it was a happy ending all the same and I would highly recommend this book to others, it was a 3.5 read for me. The fact that it was not your typical MMA fighter book drew me in and keep me intrigued until the very last sentence.
August 8, 2015
This story sounds amazing. A MMA FEMALE fighter is not something you hear of a lot. However, that was the only difference between this story and others. There is of course your damaged H/h combo who are fighting through their demons. Drama that arises and causes a rift between teammates, when it all could have been avoided by talking to each other. Not to mention the game of cat and mouse between the H/h with "Do they like me, or are they just being friendly?" when it's clear those signals are not that of mere friendship.
I was really hoping for something different with this one. I wanted a story of a female MMA fighter. Maybe one that struggles with the sexism of female fighters, but who is a strong role-model. However, that person was not Tori. I didn't like that her first response to everything under the sun was to use her fist or elbow on someone. My husband is in the military, granted he has not done cage fighting for money, he has gone to war and fought for our freedom. He was also a martial arts instructor where he taught different levels to the other soldiers. His first response to a situation however, is never violence. So the fact that Tori's fall back is always violence just because she's an MMA fighter just didn't work for me. Tori's no different than all the underground male fighters I've read about in books who go around beating up people who anger them. The only difference being that Tori has a vagina.
I also didn't feel like the drama bomb was a bomb at all. I'm actually shocked that with the fact she was hospitalized, not one thing was brought to light of the attack. How you can keep something like that hush hush, all because you don't want to hurt the reputation of the female class of MMA fighters is beyond me. Especially when you know what the douche-bag is capable of. Speaking up doesn't mean you are any less of a woman or any less of a professional fighter. It proves that the attacker is less of a man because he couldn't handle his partner getting a better drop on him during practice.
Those were just some of the things that bugged me about this story and that's not even touching base on the major errors in the book itself. At first I thought I had an ARC copy with all the errors that are in the book. Sometimes I was able to glide right over them with no problem and other times I sat there for a minute trying to figure out what was trying to be said. Needless to say this story could use a trip to a good editor.
This story has a lot of potential but it definitely needs some work with an editor to make it read a little bit smoother. The author is good at telling a story and keeping you reading but the characters just didn't work for me.
Favorite quote...
Everyone wants appreciation. Appreciation is good. But you deserve appreciation for you. For how you look every day, whether you get dressed up or not. If you do get dressed up, do it for you. Not for some punk who doesn't deserve your appreciation."
I was really hoping for something different with this one. I wanted a story of a female MMA fighter. Maybe one that struggles with the sexism of female fighters, but who is a strong role-model. However, that person was not Tori. I didn't like that her first response to everything under the sun was to use her fist or elbow on someone. My husband is in the military, granted he has not done cage fighting for money, he has gone to war and fought for our freedom. He was also a martial arts instructor where he taught different levels to the other soldiers. His first response to a situation however, is never violence. So the fact that Tori's fall back is always violence just because she's an MMA fighter just didn't work for me. Tori's no different than all the underground male fighters I've read about in books who go around beating up people who anger them. The only difference being that Tori has a vagina.
I also didn't feel like the drama bomb was a bomb at all. I'm actually shocked that with the fact she was hospitalized, not one thing was brought to light of the attack. How you can keep something like that hush hush, all because you don't want to hurt the reputation of the female class of MMA fighters is beyond me. Especially when you know what the douche-bag is capable of. Speaking up doesn't mean you are any less of a woman or any less of a professional fighter. It proves that the attacker is less of a man because he couldn't handle his partner getting a better drop on him during practice.
Those were just some of the things that bugged me about this story and that's not even touching base on the major errors in the book itself. At first I thought I had an ARC copy with all the errors that are in the book. Sometimes I was able to glide right over them with no problem and other times I sat there for a minute trying to figure out what was trying to be said. Needless to say this story could use a trip to a good editor.
This story has a lot of potential but it definitely needs some work with an editor to make it read a little bit smoother. The author is good at telling a story and keeping you reading but the characters just didn't work for me.
Favorite quote...
Everyone wants appreciation. Appreciation is good. But you deserve appreciation for you. For how you look every day, whether you get dressed up or not. If you do get dressed up, do it for you. Not for some punk who doesn't deserve your appreciation."
October 3, 2014
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
I've been hesitant of NA Contemporary Romance lately, but I thought this still sounded interesting. Let me say: This was not typical NA and I really enjoyed that. It is contemporary romance, but it still stood out. Over all, this book has some seriously funny moments, as well as some very sweet moments, hot moments (sparring YUM), somewhat frightening and heartbreaking moments.
It's not the common 'broken girl is fixed by broken boy' theme. Tori does have problems, and Max has his own past, but I really like how Tori deals with her problems (I won't say more because of spoilers). Tori is a pretty independent, self-reliant character. She isn't perfect, either. She didn't always handle things the way I would have, but I felt like she handled them true to the character.
Max. Oh, Max, Max, Max. Did someone say hot librarian? I enjoyed how much Max's intellect was involved in his characterization. Physically, he's a hot Colombian with tattoos. He's also a book nerd. My favorite thing about Max is how awkward he is. It's cute and contrasts against his aggressive, fighter side.
I'm not much of a mushy-gushy reader, so I appreciated that there was plot outside of the romance and I really enjoyed the fact there wasn't gratuitous sex. The romance is there, but it's not the only focus of the book. It plays into Tori's arc, but it isn't the reason for everything she does. And the romance scenes are unique and steamy when they do happen. And the tension between the two, especially when they are sparring... YUM
The fight scenes are so well choreographed. They were some of my favorite scenes, and really came to life. Which is funny, because I don't normally enjoy "fighting" scenes in movies and such. I know nothing about MMA, and I've never really been interested in it, but this book made me look at it in a new light. While I don't plan on going and joining a gym, I will say that I have more of an appreciation for the sport.
The other characters add to the book. I love the humor always surrounding the two brothers, and Leah's girl talk. Shane is a hottie in his own, and I wouldn't have minded more of him. I liked the various relationships in the book: romantic, platonic, partnerships.
I've been hesitant of NA Contemporary Romance lately, but I thought this still sounded interesting. Let me say: This was not typical NA and I really enjoyed that. It is contemporary romance, but it still stood out. Over all, this book has some seriously funny moments, as well as some very sweet moments, hot moments (sparring YUM), somewhat frightening and heartbreaking moments.
It's not the common 'broken girl is fixed by broken boy' theme. Tori does have problems, and Max has his own past, but I really like how Tori deals with her problems (I won't say more because of spoilers). Tori is a pretty independent, self-reliant character. She isn't perfect, either. She didn't always handle things the way I would have, but I felt like she handled them true to the character.
Max. Oh, Max, Max, Max. Did someone say hot librarian? I enjoyed how much Max's intellect was involved in his characterization. Physically, he's a hot Colombian with tattoos. He's also a book nerd. My favorite thing about Max is how awkward he is. It's cute and contrasts against his aggressive, fighter side.
I'm not much of a mushy-gushy reader, so I appreciated that there was plot outside of the romance and I really enjoyed the fact there wasn't gratuitous sex. The romance is there, but it's not the only focus of the book. It plays into Tori's arc, but it isn't the reason for everything she does. And the romance scenes are unique and steamy when they do happen. And the tension between the two, especially when they are sparring... YUM
The fight scenes are so well choreographed. They were some of my favorite scenes, and really came to life. Which is funny, because I don't normally enjoy "fighting" scenes in movies and such. I know nothing about MMA, and I've never really been interested in it, but this book made me look at it in a new light. While I don't plan on going and joining a gym, I will say that I have more of an appreciation for the sport.
The other characters add to the book. I love the humor always surrounding the two brothers, and Leah's girl talk. Shane is a hottie in his own, and I wouldn't have minded more of him. I liked the various relationships in the book: romantic, platonic, partnerships.
August 11, 2014
Loved the tension and the training would really have liked to see more of the romance though.
OK you know I hate comparing books BUT in this case I have to mention that it really reminded me of Katie McGarry's Take Me On with respect to the main female character. The grit, determination and strength to overcome her own personal demons and carve a path in a male dominated sport.
I really loved the characters in Fierce. Each having an internal battle with aspects of their lives that have shaped them. The story is told from Tori's point of view, I would really have liked to see inside Max's mind, there were some things I would have liked his thoughts on especially the Nicole situation. I utterly adored Max, this guy is the real deal; physical perfection, a committed athlete AND *fans self* he's a LIBRARIAN.
The training and atmosphere portrayed in the narrative is utterly realistic and draws you into the world of MMA. The way in which the fighters push themselves during training, both mentally and physically especially during the weigh-ins makes you appreciate the commitment and dedication athletes show to achieve their dreams. I loved how that commitment and dedication also applies to other areas of their lives especially their friends and relationships *swoon*
The story focuses around Tori's character development and the overcoming of past demons. It was easy to relate to Tori and her training being a part of who she was. It was a large part of her and to lose it was like losing a part of herself leading to lower self-confidence and therefore poor decision-making.
Fierce is a story of overcoming fear and failure, it truly is a case of what doesn't kill you only makes you stronger ;)
OK you know I hate comparing books BUT in this case I have to mention that it really reminded me of Katie McGarry's Take Me On with respect to the main female character. The grit, determination and strength to overcome her own personal demons and carve a path in a male dominated sport.
I really loved the characters in Fierce. Each having an internal battle with aspects of their lives that have shaped them. The story is told from Tori's point of view, I would really have liked to see inside Max's mind, there were some things I would have liked his thoughts on especially the Nicole situation. I utterly adored Max, this guy is the real deal; physical perfection, a committed athlete AND *fans self* he's a LIBRARIAN.
The training and atmosphere portrayed in the narrative is utterly realistic and draws you into the world of MMA. The way in which the fighters push themselves during training, both mentally and physically especially during the weigh-ins makes you appreciate the commitment and dedication athletes show to achieve their dreams. I loved how that commitment and dedication also applies to other areas of their lives especially their friends and relationships *swoon*
The story focuses around Tori's character development and the overcoming of past demons. It was easy to relate to Tori and her training being a part of who she was. It was a large part of her and to lose it was like losing a part of herself leading to lower self-confidence and therefore poor decision-making.
Fierce is a story of overcoming fear and failure, it truly is a case of what doesn't kill you only makes you stronger ;)
September 18, 2014
I received a review copy of this book for my stop on the blog tour at Donnie Darko Girl.
Tori is a boss. Oh my god, I love her. With Tori as a kick ass heroine, Fierce pulls you into the world of MMA right away. I'm not really into MMA, but I'm SO glad I read this book. I loved seeing the inner workings of the sport as much as I adored getting to know Tori and Max.
I love it when you start getting to know someone and are surprised to find out the things you have in common. That's one of the most exciting phases of building a relationship. My favorite common interest that Tori and Max share is their love of books of course! I got a kick out of him telling her he didn't know she reads, and she responds by saying how would he when all she's done up to that point is serve him pie and coffee. Moments like those in this story left a grin on my face that wouldn't go away.
No matter how much Tori tries to stay away from MMA, she finds herself drawn to it. More than that - it sings to her like a siren. A few years ago, after the incident that caused her emotional trauma, she decided to go to school, and her parents agreed to help her get through school as long as she quit MMA. But I rooted for her to get back into it. She's drawn to it like a magnet and has immense talent with the hard work and dedication she's put in over the years.
Fierce is an exciting and thrilling ride through MMA, romance, and learning to trust again. Even if you may not be into MMA, I highly recommend reading this beautiful and amazingly written story.
Tori is a boss. Oh my god, I love her. With Tori as a kick ass heroine, Fierce pulls you into the world of MMA right away. I'm not really into MMA, but I'm SO glad I read this book. I loved seeing the inner workings of the sport as much as I adored getting to know Tori and Max.
I love it when you start getting to know someone and are surprised to find out the things you have in common. That's one of the most exciting phases of building a relationship. My favorite common interest that Tori and Max share is their love of books of course! I got a kick out of him telling her he didn't know she reads, and she responds by saying how would he when all she's done up to that point is serve him pie and coffee. Moments like those in this story left a grin on my face that wouldn't go away.
No matter how much Tori tries to stay away from MMA, she finds herself drawn to it. More than that - it sings to her like a siren. A few years ago, after the incident that caused her emotional trauma, she decided to go to school, and her parents agreed to help her get through school as long as she quit MMA. But I rooted for her to get back into it. She's drawn to it like a magnet and has immense talent with the hard work and dedication she's put in over the years.
Fierce is an exciting and thrilling ride through MMA, romance, and learning to trust again. Even if you may not be into MMA, I highly recommend reading this beautiful and amazingly written story.
April 27, 2016
Original review at Gabic Reads. Review copy received from author -- Thanks!!
Fierce is one of the best books I've read all year. It was full of tension, romance, and action. Tori has stayed away from MMA since she tore her ACL. Mostly because her confident was stolen from her and also to keep her parents happy. But necessity causes her to stumble upon the scene again and she is drawn back into the world of fighting.
Tori is fierce and strong. She can take care of herself, and she refuses to trust a guy in the ring. She's also fiercely protective of those she loves and trusts those people implicitly with her life. Her worst fear is freezing up in a match, which would mean letting him win. Tori is just so kick-ass and awesome that you can't help but root for her.
Max is her new training partner and he has problems of his own. But he's cute and charismatic, and best of all, he understands the need to fight, the drive to put your heart and soul into training for a match. I want to know more about Max and Nicole's past, but I was glad to see Tori stand up for Max to protect him. Guys aren't the only ones in a relationship who can be abusive. Also, it would have been helpful for an explanation of 'Lobo,' Max's fighting name. I only discovered it meant wolf because it happened to be one of my vocabulary words in Spanish the week I was reading this book.
Fierce is definitely for you if you love kick-ass heroines, fighting, dedication, and overcoming fears. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Fierce is one of the best books I've read all year. It was full of tension, romance, and action. Tori has stayed away from MMA since she tore her ACL. Mostly because her confident was stolen from her and also to keep her parents happy. But necessity causes her to stumble upon the scene again and she is drawn back into the world of fighting.
Tori is fierce and strong. She can take care of herself, and she refuses to trust a guy in the ring. She's also fiercely protective of those she loves and trusts those people implicitly with her life. Her worst fear is freezing up in a match, which would mean letting him win. Tori is just so kick-ass and awesome that you can't help but root for her.
Max is her new training partner and he has problems of his own. But he's cute and charismatic, and best of all, he understands the need to fight, the drive to put your heart and soul into training for a match. I want to know more about Max and Nicole's past, but I was glad to see Tori stand up for Max to protect him. Guys aren't the only ones in a relationship who can be abusive. Also, it would have been helpful for an explanation of 'Lobo,' Max's fighting name. I only discovered it meant wolf because it happened to be one of my vocabulary words in Spanish the week I was reading this book.
Fierce is definitely for you if you love kick-ass heroines, fighting, dedication, and overcoming fears. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
September 15, 2014
Hell Yeah!!! The first tidbit of information that I have heard through the grapevine about this book was about the kickass heroine. I agree wholeheartedly, Tori is the picture of determination and independence. This is a girl that knows what she wants, and how to get it. I know that this is a transition book, because really this personality is one that grows with the story, but regardless she is inspiring. I love the gym atmosphere, and the protective nature that these boys take with Tori. Without minimizing her dependence it is heart warming to see how they rise to be more competitors and guard dogs. Max is a very entertaining character as well. Not many books would be able to pull of the intellectual librarian being the same character that is an MMA fighter with miles of rippling muscles and fists. Kelso crafted this world to captivate the reader with the almost overwhelming desire for not only fighting, but the budding relationship between Max and Tori. Be forewarned though this is a nice clean cut novel. While I found plenty of the enticing encounters there is not one sex scene in this entire story. Regardless, I love every bit of this story and it was not lacking in the least. I can not wait to see if there will be more, and I only hope they will continue to measure to the spectacular read this proved to be.
~BookWhisperer Reviewer Jax~
~BookWhisperer Reviewer Jax~
September 4, 2014
**ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review by the girls and I at www.sizzlingpages.com **
While I did enjoy this story, I definitely don't think I would classify this as a romance. To me the story focused more on Tori overcoming her attack, and realizing that to truly be happy, she has to listen to her heart and not ignore the desire she has to fight. Tori's relationship with Max was more on the friendship level most of the book - but that doesn't discount the importance of their relationship as they grew closer, and she learned to trust him more. He was definitely and integral part of her healing, and Tori was an exceptional young woman who definitely had the maturity level of someone much older.
Truly the only thing that did disappoint, is that the romance didn't play more of a role, which is why I would almost classify this book as more a young adult read, as there is no sex or really any situations in it that I wouldn't want my teenage daughter to read. It really is a great read, but for a younger audience for sure.
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While I did enjoy this story, I definitely don't think I would classify this as a romance. To me the story focused more on Tori overcoming her attack, and realizing that to truly be happy, she has to listen to her heart and not ignore the desire she has to fight. Tori's relationship with Max was more on the friendship level most of the book - but that doesn't discount the importance of their relationship as they grew closer, and she learned to trust him more. He was definitely and integral part of her healing, and Tori was an exceptional young woman who definitely had the maturity level of someone much older.
Truly the only thing that did disappoint, is that the romance didn't play more of a role, which is why I would almost classify this book as more a young adult read, as there is no sex or really any situations in it that I wouldn't want my teenage daughter to read. It really is a great read, but for a younger audience for sure.
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Twitter:@Sizzlingpages
September 15, 2014
Even though I started writing because I love reading, I haven’t been doing very much of that lately. I’ve also fallen way behind on New Adult releases, for two reasons: lack of time, and lack of interest. I have said before that many of the NA books I’ve read were horribly lacking and misleading. I still get a lot of shit for this, but hey. It’s my opinion. You’re certainly entitled to yours. My biggest problem with NA books is the lack of focus on characters and the sex, sex, SEX. I have no problem with erotica or even books that include sex scenes. When you’re branding your books as fiction that explores being a twenty-something, though, and release books that do nothing for character development and are just thinly veiled erotica, there’s a problem.
But it’s looking like I’m not the only one who’s been disappointed. There has been an increase in New Adult releases that are character-driven and focus on real problems that twenty-somethings deal with. There’s still sex, but it’s not the main attraction. L.G. Kelso’s Fierce is one of those novels.
Read my full review: http://elizabethbarone.net/review-fie...
But it’s looking like I’m not the only one who’s been disappointed. There has been an increase in New Adult releases that are character-driven and focus on real problems that twenty-somethings deal with. There’s still sex, but it’s not the main attraction. L.G. Kelso’s Fierce is one of those novels.
Read my full review: http://elizabethbarone.net/review-fie...
August 15, 2014
Tori walked away from fighting after freezing in her last match which caused her some serious injuries. The freeze happened after her training partner turned on her and in the case dealt her a beating that changed her life in so many ways. Not only is there fear, but she had trouble trusting. When she loses her job, Tori goes back to that life working the desk at her uncle's gym. One good thing came out of her time at the diner...Max. The surprise was that Max too was a fighter and actually trained at the gym she was working at now. With his encouragement she got back into the ring to help him and Shane train. The ring still called out to her as a fighter and eventually she agrees to another match. As she trains for the fight, Will walks back into her life and wants to keep her quiet about what he did to her before.
I so admired Tori for getting back into the ring. After what she suffered at Will's hands, she could've very easily walked away completely. She didn't want to give up and fought to be who she was both in and out of the ring. I love her and Max together.
I give Fierce 4 hearts!
I so admired Tori for getting back into the ring. After what she suffered at Will's hands, she could've very easily walked away completely. She didn't want to give up and fought to be who she was both in and out of the ring. I love her and Max together.
I give Fierce 4 hearts!
September 12, 2014
Will shattered her confidence.
Tori had been attacked.
She had a lot to overcome.
I don't know anything about MMA . I'm not going to fool anyone and say this was an easy read for me as I don't have one utter clue of the sport. I still don't. I only read about the passions from Tori, I could feel that coming through the pages.
Yes there is some romance in this, but more of a friendship, a solid relationship that has gradually grown and built on trust. It took a long time for Tori to get there though.
Its well written in that I followed the core of the storyline.
My downside was, I had to make myself finish the book as it didn't pick up speed much for me at all and I felt I was the one putting in the effort.
I've given it a 3 star as this is MY review and my thoughts, however, lots of reviewers have LOVED LOVED LOVED it, and I LOVED it, but struggled. I think more because I haven't any idea, no iota of the sport. And second, I was flagging as it didn't have a meaty bone to it for me to pick.
Tori had been attacked.
She had a lot to overcome.
I don't know anything about MMA . I'm not going to fool anyone and say this was an easy read for me as I don't have one utter clue of the sport. I still don't. I only read about the passions from Tori, I could feel that coming through the pages.
Yes there is some romance in this, but more of a friendship, a solid relationship that has gradually grown and built on trust. It took a long time for Tori to get there though.
Its well written in that I followed the core of the storyline.
My downside was, I had to make myself finish the book as it didn't pick up speed much for me at all and I felt I was the one putting in the effort.
I've given it a 3 star as this is MY review and my thoughts, however, lots of reviewers have LOVED LOVED LOVED it, and I LOVED it, but struggled. I think more because I haven't any idea, no iota of the sport. And second, I was flagging as it didn't have a meaty bone to it for me to pick.
August 14, 2014
I really enjoyed this well written and attention grabbing story. Tori is a young woman who had it all until a friend she trusted, her sparring partner Will, shattered her life and confidence. She is now attending college and hiding from her past. When she loses her job and the only position she can find is a desk job at her old gym, her passion for MMA is reawakened. She has to learn to trust if she is to build a solid relationship with Max, a pro-fighter from the gym. I loved Tori's strength and determination to fight for both the career and man she wanted even if facing her past was the only way to win. Max is a fantastic man, he is strong both physically and emotionally, he is just what Tori needs in her life. I loved how LG Kelso slowly developed the relationship between Tori and Max. This is a beautiful story and I highly recommend it to lovers of romance.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review
August 25, 2014
This was/is a 1 person POV story. The author did an outstanding and remarkable job with her writing style and getting the story across to the readers. She will be added to my shelf for future reads. I do hope that thier is more MMA fighter books coming out from this author. It's one story that you don't want to miss. I have to give this story a 5star review it really was worth every page turn and every word on the page!! It one of those stories that grab you and don't let you go at the same time has you chewing of your nails for the next part.
*** I received this story for free in exchange for an honest review, see more of my review @ http://jmhoward2007.blogspot.com on 8-26-14***
*** I received this story for free in exchange for an honest review, see more of my review @ http://jmhoward2007.blogspot.com on 8-26-14***
August 16, 2014
Great new adult sports novel with a romantic bent. As someone unfamiliar with the sport, it still allowed me to understand what was happening, and feeling intense feelings for the main characters. I felt their passion and their love for the sport, as well as the emotions that developed between them. A well done first book that shows the author's skills.
August 24, 2014
i loved the premise of this book... loved the whole female mma fighter walking away coming back but the story itself was slow going and kind of dull. i did finish the book but it took alot of work to get there. 2.5 stars.
November 29, 2016
I wasn't expecting this to be well written, enjoyable, or unique. Shame on me because it held my interest due to the MMA angle. At times it was too technical and there was virtually no chemistry between Tori and Max, but the female empowerment journey kept me reading.
May 16, 2015
It was fierce
Tori story was great, she overcame her fears and became a stronger person. And Max wow hot, hot, hot. The only reason I gave 4 star to this story was because I wish we could have Max pov. So we could get to know him better. But it was a beautiful, fierce story.
Tori story was great, she overcame her fears and became a stronger person. And Max wow hot, hot, hot. The only reason I gave 4 star to this story was because I wish we could have Max pov. So we could get to know him better. But it was a beautiful, fierce story.
October 14, 2014
I love this gritty and engaging immersion into the MMA world! With a tough-as-nails protagonist and a slow-simmering romance, this is a refreshing story of redemption and growth.
May 29, 2015
Great story. Kept ur interest. Very well written. Really enjoyed the alpha female & male. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
September 11, 2016
As a young woman that does combat sports, let me just say that this book is awesome. I need at least 10 more of these, please.
August 9, 2014
Review to come during Blog Tour.
August 16, 2014
Really liked this book shows woman can do just as good as men so glad it worked out for tori
October 19, 2014
LOVED THIS BOOK SO FUCKING MUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
April 28, 2017
Fierce was good MMA love story. It was only POV from Tori so we didn’t have a chance to know Max better just through the eyes of Tori. Tori was some real badass chic with her stubbornness and from time to time annoying determination. In the end she overcomes a fear of failing again and not only did the love for sport come back but also victory in her cathegory and love. It was a story full of action but I am a little bit more disappointed that we dint see a lot of action between Tori and Max in bed.
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