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Ripple Effect #2
Fighting for You
Brooks Grant is a walking red flag: tattoos, loud motorcycle, surly attitude, new woman every night, and a reputation for fighting. Having given up on his dreams long ago, he conceded to his dead-end small town life. No one knows him well enough to question it, they only see a mask, but his cracks are starting to show. Life is just one big fight for him, and he’s on a losing streak… until her.
Months after returning to her hometown, Margot Mason's life is the same day in and day out—shifts spent at a nursing home, nightly check-ins with her overprotective brother, rinse and repeat. Life isn’t exciting, but it’s safe. She’s just looking to do what she does best: take care of people. But being back home means dealing with her troubled past. And despite her good girl persona, there are secrets and trauma lurking beneath the surface waiting to come to light.
As they navigate grief and old wounds, Margot and Brooks find the solace they’ve always yearned for in each other. But will he learn to let someone love him, or will he sabotage it before it can start? Can she find the balance between hard won independence and letting someone care for her? And in the end, will they be able to fight for each other before they’re torn apart?
Months after returning to her hometown, Margot Mason's life is the same day in and day out—shifts spent at a nursing home, nightly check-ins with her overprotective brother, rinse and repeat. Life isn’t exciting, but it’s safe. She’s just looking to do what she does best: take care of people. But being back home means dealing with her troubled past. And despite her good girl persona, there are secrets and trauma lurking beneath the surface waiting to come to light.
As they navigate grief and old wounds, Margot and Brooks find the solace they’ve always yearned for in each other. But will he learn to let someone love him, or will he sabotage it before it can start? Can she find the balance between hard won independence and letting someone care for her? And in the end, will they be able to fight for each other before they’re torn apart?
396 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 25, 2025
31 people are currently reading
339 people want to read
About the author
Alise Monroe
3 books78 followersAlise Monroe is an author duo! Best friends turned romance indie co-authors. They write emotional, realistic, raw romance featuring flawed characters getting their HEAs. Their writing is inclusive and will feature all types of love stories. They're currently writing their small town contemporary romance series, Ripple Effect, but have plans to write in different subgenres as well. When they aren't writing, they're typically reading or buying way too many books!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 233 reviews
July 16, 2025
First, I'm just going to say that I am a sucker for Brooks and nothing will change that! Everyone has seen Brooks as being one way for so long, but when we get little glimpses of the other parts of him, I couldn't help but smile. This man cares so much, but easily gets swept up in his head and these emotions really come through with the writing and make certain parts so much more intense. And when he starts opening up to Margot more, I couldn't resist loving how perfect they are together. Their banter is easy and carefree - this is probably one of my favorite things about their relationship! But that's not to say that things are easy, because they both have experienced some trauma in their past that they still struggle with. Overall, I devoured this book and have been loving both books of the Ripple Effect series!
What to expect:
❄️Friend’s sister
🏍️Strangers to lovers
❄️Virgin FMC
🏍️Bad Boy x Good Girl
❄️Age Gap (10 years)
🏍️Forbidden
❄️Opposites Attract
🏍️He Falls First
❄️Reformed Playboy
🏍️Small Town
❄️Found Family
Thank you so much to Alise Monroe for letting me be a part of beta reading this book, and then also reading the ARC as well! All opinions are my own.
What to expect:
❄️Friend’s sister
🏍️Strangers to lovers
❄️Virgin FMC
🏍️Bad Boy x Good Girl
❄️Age Gap (10 years)
🏍️Forbidden
❄️Opposites Attract
🏍️He Falls First
❄️Reformed Playboy
🏍️Small Town
❄️Found Family
Thank you so much to Alise Monroe for letting me be a part of beta reading this book, and then also reading the ARC as well! All opinions are my own.
August 23, 2025
2.5 Stars
So much potential but the H kissing OW in front of the h was absurd. Wasn’t it enough blowing off the h? The author had to include this scene and totally ruined it. By the way, this is after they sleep together 🙄
So much potential but the H kissing OW in front of the h was absurd. Wasn’t it enough blowing off the h? The author had to include this scene and totally ruined it. By the way, this is after they sleep together 🙄
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 7, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐-> ♾️🌟
🌶️🌶️.5
❄️ Best Friend’s Sister/ Brother's Best Friend
🏍️Strangers to Lovers
❄️Virgin FMC
🏍️Bad Boy x Good Girl
❄️Age Gap (10 years)
🏍️Forbidden
❄️Opposites Attract
🏍️He Falls First
❄️Reformed Playboy
🏍️Small Town
❄️Found Family
✨️ 📚 ARC 📖 REVIEW ✨️
I will probably be saying this for a LOOONNGGG time, but Alise Monroe will forever have my heart and eyes when it comes to books! If you didn't know Alise Monroe is a pen name for 2 Besties who write together. These women deserve WHOLE AWARDS 👏 for everything they can pack into one book. The first book, When I Come Back there was so much that mad eme cry, and feel ALLLL the feels. And this book was no different! It had so many aspects that coincided with things in my life and I can't ignore that. I feel like somehow they know my life without me knowing about it 🤣. Whatever they are doing I couldn't encourage them enough to KEEP GOING!!
Margot was the nurse called in the first book to help clean up and check Brooks over when he showed up back in town. The tension then was palpable, and it sure was when we dove right back into this world. I loved seeing how they continued onward in their relationship. Margot saw far beyond Brooks' walls and was able to get him to slowly lower them. She was HIS person because she was able to be understanding and push him to be and do better as a man and person in general.
Brooks was the resident Bad Boy and everyone knew it. They always wondered why he coudln't just get it together like his brother. WHAT kind of fun would that have been when he has so much anger to let out? He isn't your normal guy, he is a complicated guy at its finest! He always felt as if he had something to atone for, or just anger he needed to release and the best way he wanted to let it out was fighting. This was his outlet that he could ride up on that motorcycle he loved and knew he would come out on top as long as he put in the anger he had.
I seriously always wondered what went through someone's head that fought like he did, well now I almost don't want to know anymore 😆. I guess the question I should be asking is their motivations. Brooks definitely had his, and chose to use that as his outlet. Even though he had his way of dealing, it really wasn't When Margot came into his life and pushed him to do and be better he definitely gave her some push back.
No one usually wants to admit that they are nothing less than a sound person, mind and body. But Brooks was one that he didn't really care what other people thought. Margot changed that within him. She was HIS good girl and he was HER bad boy. I loved their dynamics and seeing the growth that they encouraged in each other.
Seeing Margot and Brooks unite gave me CHILLS & FEELS!!! I don't think I could love this book series more than I already do. But Alise keeps blowing me away ever more with each book! I am beyolnd excited to read the next book and see how much farther they will have me OBSESSED!
Thank you 🫶🏻 to ✨️ Elise Monroe ✨️ for the complimentary 📚 ARC 📚 🫶🏻. ✨️ All opinions are my own, honest, and voluntary✨️.
🌶️🌶️.5
❄️ Best Friend’s Sister/ Brother's Best Friend
🏍️Strangers to Lovers
❄️Virgin FMC
🏍️Bad Boy x Good Girl
❄️Age Gap (10 years)
🏍️Forbidden
❄️Opposites Attract
🏍️He Falls First
❄️Reformed Playboy
🏍️Small Town
❄️Found Family
✨️ 📚 ARC 📖 REVIEW ✨️
I will probably be saying this for a LOOONNGGG time, but Alise Monroe will forever have my heart and eyes when it comes to books! If you didn't know Alise Monroe is a pen name for 2 Besties who write together. These women deserve WHOLE AWARDS 👏 for everything they can pack into one book. The first book, When I Come Back there was so much that mad eme cry, and feel ALLLL the feels. And this book was no different! It had so many aspects that coincided with things in my life and I can't ignore that. I feel like somehow they know my life without me knowing about it 🤣. Whatever they are doing I couldn't encourage them enough to KEEP GOING!!
Margot was the nurse called in the first book to help clean up and check Brooks over when he showed up back in town. The tension then was palpable, and it sure was when we dove right back into this world. I loved seeing how they continued onward in their relationship. Margot saw far beyond Brooks' walls and was able to get him to slowly lower them. She was HIS person because she was able to be understanding and push him to be and do better as a man and person in general.
Brooks was the resident Bad Boy and everyone knew it. They always wondered why he coudln't just get it together like his brother. WHAT kind of fun would that have been when he has so much anger to let out? He isn't your normal guy, he is a complicated guy at its finest! He always felt as if he had something to atone for, or just anger he needed to release and the best way he wanted to let it out was fighting. This was his outlet that he could ride up on that motorcycle he loved and knew he would come out on top as long as he put in the anger he had.
I seriously always wondered what went through someone's head that fought like he did, well now I almost don't want to know anymore 😆. I guess the question I should be asking is their motivations. Brooks definitely had his, and chose to use that as his outlet. Even though he had his way of dealing, it really wasn't When Margot came into his life and pushed him to do and be better he definitely gave her some push back.
No one usually wants to admit that they are nothing less than a sound person, mind and body. But Brooks was one that he didn't really care what other people thought. Margot changed that within him. She was HIS good girl and he was HER bad boy. I loved their dynamics and seeing the growth that they encouraged in each other.
Seeing Margot and Brooks unite gave me CHILLS & FEELS!!! I don't think I could love this book series more than I already do. But Alise keeps blowing me away ever more with each book! I am beyolnd excited to read the next book and see how much farther they will have me OBSESSED!
Thank you 🫶🏻 to ✨️ Elise Monroe ✨️ for the complimentary 📚 ARC 📚 🫶🏻. ✨️ All opinions are my own, honest, and voluntary✨️.
July 29, 2025
Alise Monroe has done it again.
Listen, I LOVED When I Come Back. It was truly so well written, so of course I was super excited to be selected to get an ARC copy of Fighting for You. Margot & Brooks are my fave for sure.
The storyline had me hooked. The romance was everything. The drama was just enough and I only cried a lot while reading it. I highly recommend this series to anyone looking to escape to a small town, filled with funny quips, tons of whiskey, deep conversations, and all the love your heart needs.
I cannot wait to read the rest of the series, especially Ripley’s.
Listen, I LOVED When I Come Back. It was truly so well written, so of course I was super excited to be selected to get an ARC copy of Fighting for You. Margot & Brooks are my fave for sure.
The storyline had me hooked. The romance was everything. The drama was just enough and I only cried a lot while reading it. I highly recommend this series to anyone looking to escape to a small town, filled with funny quips, tons of whiskey, deep conversations, and all the love your heart needs.
I cannot wait to read the rest of the series, especially Ripley’s.
July 25, 2025
Man this one got me in my feels.
Margot and Brooks were so good.
Brooks is running from himself. He’s the one that feels left behind by those he loves. He tries to give his best but feels like it’s never good enough. No one really steps in to tell him otherwise either.
Margot is running from her past…more specifically someone from her past. She is back home and taking care of her family. She’s trying to find her place in this new world.
These two come together in unexpected ways. They leave each experience feeling more and more drawn together. They have their work cut out for themselves. Between family issues and being forced to face past traumas while trying to put their best foot forward. It’s a hard road for sure.
The best thing is that those hard roads is they often lead to the most beautiful destinations. This story was no different. While they had to fight and then fight for each other. The love that they had was strong and really selfless. They only wanted the best for each other.
In the end the fight is in fact worth it. They love hard and give each other the love that they need. It was so beautiful and fun. Ugh what a fun world to be in and I’m excited to see where we go from here!
Margot and Brooks were so good.
Brooks is running from himself. He’s the one that feels left behind by those he loves. He tries to give his best but feels like it’s never good enough. No one really steps in to tell him otherwise either.
Margot is running from her past…more specifically someone from her past. She is back home and taking care of her family. She’s trying to find her place in this new world.
These two come together in unexpected ways. They leave each experience feeling more and more drawn together. They have their work cut out for themselves. Between family issues and being forced to face past traumas while trying to put their best foot forward. It’s a hard road for sure.
The best thing is that those hard roads is they often lead to the most beautiful destinations. This story was no different. While they had to fight and then fight for each other. The love that they had was strong and really selfless. They only wanted the best for each other.
In the end the fight is in fact worth it. They love hard and give each other the love that they need. It was so beautiful and fun. Ugh what a fun world to be in and I’m excited to see where we go from here!
July 25, 2025
Ladies looking for a bad boy, Brooks is for you.
33. Tall. Dark buzz cut. Broody. Tatted. Rides a motorcycle. Smokes. Drinks. Fights.
Then our girl Margot.
Nurse. 23. Inexperienced. Sweet. Good girl.
Has a stalker.
Little sister to Hayes… Brooks friend.
This deals with a lot of tough topics. All listed in the TWs.
I do think book 1 needs to be read first.
Arc review ✨
33. Tall. Dark buzz cut. Broody. Tatted. Rides a motorcycle. Smokes. Drinks. Fights.
Then our girl Margot.
Nurse. 23. Inexperienced. Sweet. Good girl.
Has a stalker.
Little sister to Hayes… Brooks friend.
This deals with a lot of tough topics. All listed in the TWs.
I do think book 1 needs to be read first.
Arc review ✨
July 14, 2025
Margot moves back to town to be closer to her brother, but what she doesn’t expect is Brooks, her brother’s friend with a tough past and a bad reputation. They first meet when she helps clean him up after a fight, and then her brother sends him to help her out at her house. Sparks definitely fly, but with the emotional baggage they’re both carrying, things get a bit complicated.
I loved watching them slowly break down each other’s walls and become exactly what the other needed. Their story pulled me in right away, and the added suspense made it impossible to put down.
If you were into book one, you’re going to love this one too. So, be sure to add it to your TBR!
Thank you, Alise Monroe for the ARC.
I loved watching them slowly break down each other’s walls and become exactly what the other needed. Their story pulled me in right away, and the added suspense made it impossible to put down.
If you were into book one, you’re going to love this one too. So, be sure to add it to your TBR!
Thank you, Alise Monroe for the ARC.
July 20, 2025
4.5⭐️ SOLID READ
I liked this book! I read it as an ARC 🤗 Brooks is such a complex MMC who has always worn his heart on his sleeve and tends to lash out emotionally to those he cares about the most. Margot is a quiet, rule following, nurse who likes to fly under the radar and keep to herself. Together these two are absolutely swoon-worthy. She brings out the best in him by calling him out on his stuff and making him WANT to be better. He helps her let loose and not take things so seriously. The spice is 🤌🏼 just right. Margot, despite her quiet demeanor, likes to take charge a bit in bed and isn’t afraid to try new things. Brooks is so attentive and definitely lets his body do the talking 🤭😘
The reason for 4.5⭐️ is this: I felt like the story was the same pace almost all the way through until around 85% when things just suddenly started progressing really quickly and then…it was over. I felt like there could have been at least 2-3 more chapters at the end after they are officially together just to get that final sense of establishment but it was still so good. I feel like we didn’t really get a good look at WHY Brooks is the way he is and what he’s doing about it—also his dream that he was working towards didn’t completely come to fruition like Cary’s did and I felt like he deserved a well rounded ending. I know not every story DOES end that way and that is ok I just wanted him to have something good happen to him outside of Margot lol 😅
The twists and turns and the EMOTION that the topics of this book will put you through can def be heavy but once again the ladies hit it out of the park!!! Can’t wait for book 3!!!
I liked this book! I read it as an ARC 🤗 Brooks is such a complex MMC who has always worn his heart on his sleeve and tends to lash out emotionally to those he cares about the most. Margot is a quiet, rule following, nurse who likes to fly under the radar and keep to herself. Together these two are absolutely swoon-worthy. She brings out the best in him by calling him out on his stuff and making him WANT to be better. He helps her let loose and not take things so seriously. The spice is 🤌🏼 just right. Margot, despite her quiet demeanor, likes to take charge a bit in bed and isn’t afraid to try new things. Brooks is so attentive and definitely lets his body do the talking 🤭😘
The reason for 4.5⭐️ is this: I felt like the story was the same pace almost all the way through until around 85% when things just suddenly started progressing really quickly and then…it was over. I felt like there could have been at least 2-3 more chapters at the end after they are officially together just to get that final sense of establishment but it was still so good. I feel like we didn’t really get a good look at WHY Brooks is the way he is and what he’s doing about it—also his dream that he was working towards didn’t completely come to fruition like Cary’s did and I felt like he deserved a well rounded ending. I know not every story DOES end that way and that is ok I just wanted him to have something good happen to him outside of Margot lol 😅
The twists and turns and the EMOTION that the topics of this book will put you through can def be heavy but once again the ladies hit it out of the park!!! Can’t wait for book 3!!!
July 29, 2025
I love when a relatively new author grabs your attention to the point of dropping everything as soon as their book hits your Kindle. The writing duo of Alise Monroe has done just that. I find myself looking forward to their next book, and I have barely finished their most recent one.
Margo has returned home to be near her brother. The last person she expects is Brooks, her brother's friend. He is bad news, a less than steller reputation, and an equally rough past. The sparks do fly, but both have walls deep and high. Emotional baggage for both.
As we meet both characters and pull back their curtains, in become invested. I want to root for them. As he opens up, and walls begin to crumble, can they be what the other needs? Add in a bit of suspense and I was hooked.
Thank you to the Authors for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Margo has returned home to be near her brother. The last person she expects is Brooks, her brother's friend. He is bad news, a less than steller reputation, and an equally rough past. The sparks do fly, but both have walls deep and high. Emotional baggage for both.
As we meet both characters and pull back their curtains, in become invested. I want to root for them. As he opens up, and walls begin to crumble, can they be what the other needs? Add in a bit of suspense and I was hooked.
Thank you to the Authors for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
July 20, 2025
ARC REVIEW
4⭐️
2.5🌶
I want to start this review by suggesting you read Book 1 in this series because I do think you may be a little bit confused if you didn't.
This was soooo good. It had ANGST, drama, exceptional spice, and got me all in my feels. I felt for Brooks because he truly was his own worst enemy. No one ever made him feel like he was good enough, until Margot. It was so painful to watch him sabotage his relationship with her but it was also so rewarding to get to their happy ending.
The Bad Boy vs Good Girl aspect of this was done SO well. They truly are the definition of opposites attract and Margot brought out the soft side of Brooks.
Let's not forget the Lil Lil Suspense side to this! That was so fun. It reminded me a lot of Catherine Cowles writing. It was done super well and added a necessary element to keep me on my toes.
Tropes:
✨️ Good Girl x Bad Boy
✨️ Virgin FMC
✨️ Age Gap(10 years)
✨️ Reformed Playboy
✨️ He Falls First
✨️ Found Family
✨️ Suspense Element
4⭐️
2.5🌶
I want to start this review by suggesting you read Book 1 in this series because I do think you may be a little bit confused if you didn't.
This was soooo good. It had ANGST, drama, exceptional spice, and got me all in my feels. I felt for Brooks because he truly was his own worst enemy. No one ever made him feel like he was good enough, until Margot. It was so painful to watch him sabotage his relationship with her but it was also so rewarding to get to their happy ending.
The Bad Boy vs Good Girl aspect of this was done SO well. They truly are the definition of opposites attract and Margot brought out the soft side of Brooks.
Let's not forget the Lil Lil Suspense side to this! That was so fun. It reminded me a lot of Catherine Cowles writing. It was done super well and added a necessary element to keep me on my toes.
Tropes:
✨️ Good Girl x Bad Boy
✨️ Virgin FMC
✨️ Age Gap(10 years)
✨️ Reformed Playboy
✨️ He Falls First
✨️ Found Family
✨️ Suspense Element
July 3, 2025
Oooh Brooks my man!!! I just want to wrap him up in a blanket and shower him with all the love and kisses that he deserves, but as he is a fictional character (rude!), I guess Margot will have to do it for me 😒
We had the hints dropped to us in WICB of a potential blossoming relationship between the local tatted up bad-boy and the timid nurse, but we DID NOT know just how scrumptious it would be! He’s dark and brooding, rides a death-trap and fights for fun and with a reputation as the town bachelor bedding a different woman frequently. She’s shy, kind-hearted, reliable and only wants a committed relationship, and did I mention, she’s Brooks’ best friends’ little sister…immediately yes🙂↕️…it’ll never work out right, RIGHT!?
When Margot calls her brother to help with a plumbing issue, she didn’t anticipate Brooks to show up on her doorstep to help with her pipes (see what I did there – 😏😉), but this ‘opposites attract’ story pulls you in and plants itself firmly into your heart. It’s funny, angsty, spicy and emotional (my DMs to Alise Monroe prove this 🤣🤩) and now I immediately need Ripley’s book plsandthx
3🌶️
We had the hints dropped to us in WICB of a potential blossoming relationship between the local tatted up bad-boy and the timid nurse, but we DID NOT know just how scrumptious it would be! He’s dark and brooding, rides a death-trap and fights for fun and with a reputation as the town bachelor bedding a different woman frequently. She’s shy, kind-hearted, reliable and only wants a committed relationship, and did I mention, she’s Brooks’ best friends’ little sister…immediately yes🙂↕️…it’ll never work out right, RIGHT!?
When Margot calls her brother to help with a plumbing issue, she didn’t anticipate Brooks to show up on her doorstep to help with her pipes (see what I did there – 😏😉), but this ‘opposites attract’ story pulls you in and plants itself firmly into your heart. It’s funny, angsty, spicy and emotional (my DMs to Alise Monroe prove this 🤣🤩) and now I immediately need Ripley’s book plsandthx
3🌶️
July 23, 2025
4.25 I liked this a lot!
I was pleasantly surprised with this book. I was expecting good things, with the tropes and the artwork, and it delivered!
Margot was so sweet, too sweet. Sometimes she felt a little like a pushover. I wanted her to be smarter about the [redacted] situation and not just stay quiet. Also, wanted Hayes to be more present because he seemed like a raging dick most of the interactions. He was the least brotherly brother ever. Loved the found family. Margot deserves all the friends she can get, and her relationship with Lydia was the best.
Brooks was in need of therapy and a good slap. He was the king of self-sabotage, and somehow, while blaming himself, he still managed to blame others. I wanted more groveling for what he did. Sure, he did suffer a little, but not enough in my opinion. He would have needed months to make it up to me. But even then, I still liked him and empathized with him.
He was also super hot and once he got going, pretty good boyfriend material, so that adds up.
Really liked that he finally fought for something good for himself and not just against it. Not going to lie, Cary pissed me off bad with his holier-than-thou attitude, trying to talk Brooks out of being with Margot without knowing the full story, but also with Cary's past.
The spice was great. I liked that Margot was not a shy and blushing virgin, but a woman who enjoyed her pleasure and just hadn’t found a guy she wanted to share herself with. They were hot and horny for each other and not hiding it with the silly 'maybe he/she doesn't want me back' thinking.
As for the plot, I wanted more hints of the stalking before the big reveal and maybe even Brooks being threatened with a note or something at some point.
I’m actually excited for the next books because that enemies-to-lovers has major potential! And don’t even get me started on Ripley and his mystery man…
Thank you so much to Alise for the e-arc!
Quotes:
But for Margot? For Margot, I think I'd do just about anything. Begging being just the tip of the iceberg.
"I'm admiring you, Freckles. Every perfect fucking inch of you. Do you realize how beautiful you are? Do you even know?"
I loop my fingers through the band of her thong. The one I picked out for her to wear just an hour ago. I never thought I'd end up taking it off of her too.
"Seeing how red your cunt, gets when I slap it might be my new addiction. It's so fucking gorgeous. I love seeing my mark on you,"
I've never yearned to kiss a woman. I've never even cared about kissing. But with Margot, kissing her feels like she's breathing life into me.
Waking up next to Margot is paradise. I'm not sure I believe Heaven exists, but if it does, this is what it would feel like.
"I will fight for you. I'll keep fighting for you. Because you deserve it."
"And I know, Hayes, I know I'm no good for her. I know she deserves better than me and anything I can give her, but I've never loved someone the way I love her. She's... fuck. She's everything to me. And I swear, I'll do everything I can to keep her happy."
"Fuck, Freckles. I'll never get over how amazing you feel wrapped around me."
No fucking clue what kink it is, but I think mine is just Margot.
I was pleasantly surprised with this book. I was expecting good things, with the tropes and the artwork, and it delivered!
Margot was so sweet, too sweet. Sometimes she felt a little like a pushover. I wanted her to be smarter about the [redacted] situation and not just stay quiet. Also, wanted Hayes to be more present because he seemed like a raging dick most of the interactions. He was the least brotherly brother ever. Loved the found family. Margot deserves all the friends she can get, and her relationship with Lydia was the best.
Brooks was in need of therapy and a good slap. He was the king of self-sabotage, and somehow, while blaming himself, he still managed to blame others. I wanted more groveling for what he did. Sure, he did suffer a little, but not enough in my opinion. He would have needed months to make it up to me. But even then, I still liked him and empathized with him.
He was also super hot and once he got going, pretty good boyfriend material, so that adds up.
Really liked that he finally fought for something good for himself and not just against it. Not going to lie, Cary pissed me off bad with his holier-than-thou attitude, trying to talk Brooks out of being with Margot without knowing the full story, but also with Cary's past.
The spice was great. I liked that Margot was not a shy and blushing virgin, but a woman who enjoyed her pleasure and just hadn’t found a guy she wanted to share herself with. They were hot and horny for each other and not hiding it with the silly 'maybe he/she doesn't want me back' thinking.
As for the plot, I wanted more hints of the stalking before the big reveal and maybe even Brooks being threatened with a note or something at some point.
I’m actually excited for the next books because that enemies-to-lovers has major potential! And don’t even get me started on Ripley and his mystery man…
Thank you so much to Alise for the e-arc!
Quotes:
But for Margot? For Margot, I think I'd do just about anything. Begging being just the tip of the iceberg.
"I'm admiring you, Freckles. Every perfect fucking inch of you. Do you realize how beautiful you are? Do you even know?"
I loop my fingers through the band of her thong. The one I picked out for her to wear just an hour ago. I never thought I'd end up taking it off of her too.
"Seeing how red your cunt, gets when I slap it might be my new addiction. It's so fucking gorgeous. I love seeing my mark on you,"
I've never yearned to kiss a woman. I've never even cared about kissing. But with Margot, kissing her feels like she's breathing life into me.
Waking up next to Margot is paradise. I'm not sure I believe Heaven exists, but if it does, this is what it would feel like.
"I will fight for you. I'll keep fighting for you. Because you deserve it."
"And I know, Hayes, I know I'm no good for her. I know she deserves better than me and anything I can give her, but I've never loved someone the way I love her. She's... fuck. She's everything to me. And I swear, I'll do everything I can to keep her happy."
"Fuck, Freckles. I'll never get over how amazing you feel wrapped around me."
No fucking clue what kink it is, but I think mine is just Margot.
July 18, 2025
Fighting for You (Ripple Effect, #2)
by Alise Monroe
5⭐️
3🌶️
Loved Margot & Brooks love story!!! 😍
You ever have that feeling when you start reading a book and it just flows so effortlessly ! And you connect with a certain characters emotions and trauma. It was a roller coaster of emotions for me and I loved every minute of it!
MMC Brooks is a sexy bad boy / fighter 🥊with motorcycle ( do I have to say anything else lol 😂) He’s a tortured soul who is constantly doubting himself and he thinks Margot is too good for him. He has a tendency of pushing people away because he doesn’t feel he’s worthy of true love and affection.
And when that underlying trauma comes from your parents it tends to stick with you forever. I feel your pain 😞 buddy.
MFC Margot is new in town and tries to hide from past , but unfortunately it follows her and she’s ends up guarded and paranoid.
She meets Brooks when her brother sends him over to “fix her pipes “ 😏
She’s also a caregiver for her alcoholic father which just broke my heart because I know to well the feelings of dealing with someone with an addiction.
Margot and Brooks soon form an undeniable connection but she’s reluctant because of Brooks’s playboy ways.
She does break down that wall (eventually) and their hot and very steamy relationship begins to blossom!
The spice in this book was definitely a {Chef’s 🤌🏻Kiss} it was a absolute
🩲 drencher 💦🤭❤️🔥and was I shocked 🫢 a bit, but did I eat it up absolutely!!!
Did I also love that she made him beg 👅 for it! Yes she went there ! Loved how Margot came out of her shell and became this sexual diva!
Overall there are so many more raw and emotionally heartbreaking moments in this story ! And it does end on a HEA , which these two truly deserved!!
I truly didn’t want the story to end!
And this is my first book by Alise Monroe it definitely won’t be my last!
Thank you Alise Monroe and Afterword PA for this arc in exchange for my honest review! 🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵
by Alise Monroe
5⭐️
3🌶️
Loved Margot & Brooks love story!!! 😍
You ever have that feeling when you start reading a book and it just flows so effortlessly ! And you connect with a certain characters emotions and trauma. It was a roller coaster of emotions for me and I loved every minute of it!
MMC Brooks is a sexy bad boy / fighter 🥊with motorcycle ( do I have to say anything else lol 😂) He’s a tortured soul who is constantly doubting himself and he thinks Margot is too good for him. He has a tendency of pushing people away because he doesn’t feel he’s worthy of true love and affection.
And when that underlying trauma comes from your parents it tends to stick with you forever. I feel your pain 😞 buddy.
MFC Margot is new in town and tries to hide from past , but unfortunately it follows her and she’s ends up guarded and paranoid.
She meets Brooks when her brother sends him over to “fix her pipes “ 😏
She’s also a caregiver for her alcoholic father which just broke my heart because I know to well the feelings of dealing with someone with an addiction.
Margot and Brooks soon form an undeniable connection but she’s reluctant because of Brooks’s playboy ways.
She does break down that wall (eventually) and their hot and very steamy relationship begins to blossom!
The spice in this book was definitely a {Chef’s 🤌🏻Kiss} it was a absolute
🩲 drencher 💦🤭❤️🔥and was I shocked 🫢 a bit, but did I eat it up absolutely!!!
Did I also love that she made him beg 👅 for it! Yes she went there ! Loved how Margot came out of her shell and became this sexual diva!
Overall there are so many more raw and emotionally heartbreaking moments in this story ! And it does end on a HEA , which these two truly deserved!!
I truly didn’t want the story to end!
And this is my first book by Alise Monroe it definitely won’t be my last!
Thank you Alise Monroe and Afterword PA for this arc in exchange for my honest review! 🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵
July 23, 2025
Just finished reading an advanced copy of a book that is about to be released on July 25th called, Fighting for You. This is book two in the Ripple Effect series, and this story is about Brooks and Margot. Brooks is the bad boy going nowhere in life, at least that's the way he thinks everyone sees him in his small town so he figures he might as well prove them right. Margot is a nurse who just recently moved back to her hometown, she is working, taking care of her drunk father, and being annoyed by her overly protective big brother. But Margot wasn't just coming home to be close to her family again, she was running from something, well more like someone. Margot and Brooks might seem like total opposites with nothing in common, but they both have their own baggage and trauma (mental health, passing of loved ones). They begin to lean on each other and open up to each other, only to find out they're not that different. Their connection is instant and undeniable. Their banter and chemistry is perfect. And their growth throughout the story, learning to trust each other, and learning to love is just all so beautifully written. I enjoyed this book even more than the first one! And I really loved the combination of romance and the suspense that this storyline had! 🩵📚
Thank you to the author and to the publisher for this ARC of Fighting for You, in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the author and to the publisher for this ARC of Fighting for You, in exchange for an honest review.
July 27, 2025
Oh my, I didn’t think anything could beat Alise Monroe’s debut, When I Come Back, but I officially have a new favorite of the series. I absolutely devoured this book. Brooks… he deserves all the good things in this world. Everyone has their thoughts on him but when you truly see him for who he is, deep down, it starts to paint a different picture. This man is constantly doubting himself but he really does have a big heart and cares so much. I loved how he opened up to Margot. You can’t deny how perfect they are for each other. They both definitely have some past trauma. But their banter and their chemistry was chef’s kiss. My heart absolutely broke for Margot. Loving someone so much but having to continuously be let down by their addiction. So many raw and emotional and heartbreaking moments throughout this book. I ate it up.
Thank you to Alise Monroe for the early ARC. I’ve been so grateful to ARC read both books of the Ripple Effect series so far and cannot wait for what’s to come from you two.
read if you love:
good girl x bad boy, strangers to lovers, age gap, small town, angst, spice, suspense, friend’s sister, virgin FMC, opposites attract, he falls first, reformed playboy, found family
Thank you to Alise Monroe for the early ARC. I’ve been so grateful to ARC read both books of the Ripple Effect series so far and cannot wait for what’s to come from you two.
read if you love:
good girl x bad boy, strangers to lovers, age gap, small town, angst, spice, suspense, friend’s sister, virgin FMC, opposites attract, he falls first, reformed playboy, found family
July 24, 2025
I loved this book! It might be one of my favorites this year. I couldn’t put it down! Margot was definitely my favorite character. I related to her in so many ways, and honestly, she’s just too nice. Brooks was absolutely the right man for her. Margot and Brooks were perfect together; you could really feel how much they supported and cared for each other. I especially loved how Brooks was willing to meet Margot halfway because she wanted him to feel the love he truly deserved, it really showed how deeply they loved each other. This book took me through so many emotions, and I enjoyed every minute of it. I can’t wait for book 3, it already sounds like it’s going to be amazing!
Thank you for the opportunity to be an ARC reader!
Thank you for the opportunity to be an ARC reader!
October 1, 2025
After reading book 1 in this series, I instantly knew that I had to jump into Brooks and Margot’s story!
💙Small town
💙Age gap
💙Bad boy x good girl
Brooks is so very broken and he keeps digging himself deeper and deeper into a hole. He is purposely sabotaging everything around him, and all the relationships he has.
Margot has always been the good girl, but Brooks has caught her attention and she is drawn to him.
These two couldn’t be more different, but I was completely invested in their story. I couldn’t put the book down and I just so badly wanted these two to get their HEA!
Ripley and Hayes both need books ASAP!!
💙Small town
💙Age gap
💙Bad boy x good girl
Brooks is so very broken and he keeps digging himself deeper and deeper into a hole. He is purposely sabotaging everything around him, and all the relationships he has.
Margot has always been the good girl, but Brooks has caught her attention and she is drawn to him.
These two couldn’t be more different, but I was completely invested in their story. I couldn’t put the book down and I just so badly wanted these two to get their HEA!
Ripley and Hayes both need books ASAP!!
July 11, 2025
You know that feeling when a book is just effortless—when you get so immersed you don’t want it to end? That’s exactly how I felt reading Margot and Brooks’ story.
There’s something about the Good Girl x Bad Boy trope that always gets me, and Alise Monroe nailed it. Watching Margot become a little bad for Brooks, and him become a little good for her? Chef’s kiss. Brooks and his tortured soul made my heart physically ache—he was everything. Quietly intense, deeply emotional, and so much more than anyone ever gave him credit for. He truly deserved his redemption—and to get the girl in the end.
Margot was such a sweetheart. She had that soft, naive quality, but she was also incredibly strong. Her vulnerabilities felt real, and that made it so easy to connect with her. Together, these two just worked—even if Brooks couldn’t see it at first. Their growth, both individually and as a couple, was beautiful to watch.
And let’s not forget the darker threads running through the story. The undercurrent of The Pit and the mystery around her stalker added just the right amount of tension and suspense to keep me on edge.
This book was the perfect mix of angst, romance, and thrills—and I loved every second of it.
There’s something about the Good Girl x Bad Boy trope that always gets me, and Alise Monroe nailed it. Watching Margot become a little bad for Brooks, and him become a little good for her? Chef’s kiss. Brooks and his tortured soul made my heart physically ache—he was everything. Quietly intense, deeply emotional, and so much more than anyone ever gave him credit for. He truly deserved his redemption—and to get the girl in the end.
Margot was such a sweetheart. She had that soft, naive quality, but she was also incredibly strong. Her vulnerabilities felt real, and that made it so easy to connect with her. Together, these two just worked—even if Brooks couldn’t see it at first. Their growth, both individually and as a couple, was beautiful to watch.
And let’s not forget the darker threads running through the story. The undercurrent of The Pit and the mystery around her stalker added just the right amount of tension and suspense to keep me on edge.
This book was the perfect mix of angst, romance, and thrills—and I loved every second of it.
July 15, 2025
Soooo this is a 2/2.5 for me. :(
I had such high hopes for this because like all the tropes aligned with everything I enjoy. And don’t get me wrong, the writing was done well, it just was the storyline that just didn’t vibe with me very much. I liked Margot but Brooks frustrated me a little with his constant self-loath. It did have some ups and downs but the ending with her dad felt a bit forced to me sadly.
But again; the writing was good it was simply that for me personally the storyline was a miss!
I had such high hopes for this because like all the tropes aligned with everything I enjoy. And don’t get me wrong, the writing was done well, it just was the storyline that just didn’t vibe with me very much. I liked Margot but Brooks frustrated me a little with his constant self-loath. It did have some ups and downs but the ending with her dad felt a bit forced to me sadly.
But again; the writing was good it was simply that for me personally the storyline was a miss!
July 25, 2025
Brooks & Margot 😍 I knew from the first book they were going to be fire 🔥
I love there relationship, the character growth 👌
The plot was good & well paced. The spice was good.
I wish the book was longer. Lol. 😘
I can't wait for more Easter eggs through out the entries Series! And after the sneak peak for Ripley's book 😍🔥🙌 BRING IT ON 💜
I love there relationship, the character growth 👌
The plot was good & well paced. The spice was good.
I wish the book was longer. Lol. 😘
I can't wait for more Easter eggs through out the entries Series! And after the sneak peak for Ripley's book 😍🔥🙌 BRING IT ON 💜
July 26, 2025
OMG! I absolutely loved this book!! Margot moves back home and meets Brooks and the story goes from there. I think Brooks is so relatable. Everyone has felt not good enough and like a total screw up before. Margot believes in him so much though and sees who he is under the hard exterior. The last few chapters really got me. so much going on and all the feels.
July 23, 2025
Review after work
July 25, 2025
I absolutely loved Brooks in When I Come Back and I couldn’t wait to get my hands on his story and y’all it didn’t disappoint! Brooks is a broken man that has a tendency of pushing those he loves away. He’s convinced he ruins everything and feels unworthy of love. But underneath his hard exterior is a man with a huge heart. I loved watching Brooks and Margot break down their walls and slowly let each other in. Their banter and chemistry was just everything. They have an undeniable connection and we’re just perfect for each other!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Fighting for You is now available!
Thank you Alise & Monroe for the ARC! I hope you have a wonderful release day!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Fighting for You is now available!
Thank you Alise & Monroe for the ARC! I hope you have a wonderful release day!
July 28, 2025
I love the small town vibe of this book!! Brooks is top 5 MMC. I loved the twists and turns that evoked every emotion 🤣 the banter here is chefs kiss :)
July 31, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Dual 1st person POV
While this is book 2 in the series, it is a standalone, so no need to have read book 1 first. I received a free copy from the authors, and this was my introduction to their books. I was immediately drawn in and didn’t want to put the book down. The curveball at the end made me so sad for the characters. After finishing Brooks and Margot’s story I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
Even though it's never said that's what is going on, Brooks is a really good representation of depression and how it warps your thinking and perspective of everything.
Tropes:
❄️Friend’s Sister
🏍️Found Family
❄️Virgin FMC
🏍️Bad Boy x Good Girl
❄️Age Gap (10 years)
🏍️Forbidden
❄️Opposites Attract
🏍️He Falls First
❄️Reformed Playboy
🏍️Small Town
Dual 1st person POV
While this is book 2 in the series, it is a standalone, so no need to have read book 1 first. I received a free copy from the authors, and this was my introduction to their books. I was immediately drawn in and didn’t want to put the book down. The curveball at the end made me so sad for the characters. After finishing Brooks and Margot’s story I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
Even though it's never said that's what is going on, Brooks is a really good representation of depression and how it warps your thinking and perspective of everything.
Tropes:
❄️Friend’s Sister
🏍️Found Family
❄️Virgin FMC
🏍️Bad Boy x Good Girl
❄️Age Gap (10 years)
🏍️Forbidden
❄️Opposites Attract
🏍️He Falls First
❄️Reformed Playboy
🏍️Small Town
July 29, 2025
When the title literally explains the book. So much fighting. But also fighting for love. Fighting for each other’s lives. How you made me cry more than I could ever imagine is beyond me. Made me more emotional than ever! Sooo good!
July 25, 2025
I am so happy for this book to be out in the world, and ready for my baby Brooks to have his moment! This book is so angsty and just plain…sexy 🫦
I love loved the dynamic between Brooke’s and Margot, they both have a special place in my heart.
I really enjoyed the innocent, FMC who is running away from something paired with the towns misunderstood “bad boy”, it was hot. 😂 I also love the mental health representation that @author.alisemonroe brings to their books that makes it so easy to relate to their characters. I especially related to Margot and her saturation having a close family member of mine be an alcoholic. I loved how Brooks was a bulldozer from the bringing for Margot and would do anything to help her out. He takes care of her is one of my ultimate fave tropes and this book did not disappoint in that department!
Fighting for You is book 2 in the Ripple Effect series BUT can be read as a standalone. (I also recommend reading When I Come Back)
If you love…
❄️small town
🫶🏻age gaps
❄️reformed (misunderstood) playboy
🫶🏻found family
❄️a sweet and innocent FMC
🫶🏻a dash of suspense
❄️CHEEEEEESEEEEEEE
🫶🏻angst
❄️he takes care of her
I highly recommend this book! It is available TODAY on kindle unlimited & Amazon!
September 16, 2025
Wow that was a lot of trauma and healing and a bit more trauma.
My heart was breaking for Brooks and his inner thoughts. Especially since this is something a lot of people struggle with.
Read. It.
My heart was breaking for Brooks and his inner thoughts. Especially since this is something a lot of people struggle with.
Read. It.
August 8, 2025
This was so good.
I loved Margot and Brookes, how they were so different but just made each other better (well maybe Margot made Brookes better, Brookes should just forever be lucky that Margot saw what he hid away)
The nicknames were super cute (not Hayes's, that's just big brother energy right there)
I loved Margot and Brookes, how they were so different but just made each other better (well maybe Margot made Brookes better, Brookes should just forever be lucky that Margot saw what he hid away)
The nicknames were super cute (not Hayes's, that's just big brother energy right there)
July 16, 2025
✨Fighting For You by Alise Monroe✨ ARC Review!
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Alise Monroe has hit it out of the park yet again! Another book that is beautifully written and makes you feel like any moment you will see Brooks ride by on his motorcycle.
And that bad boy x good girl trope just gets me every time! 🥵
Brooks and Margot have so much depth, trauma, and insecurities that make them the perfect pair. These characters were written so well and I applaud these authors for capturing such beautiful souls. I just want to hug Brooks and never let go, he truly deserves the world and more.
Also the suspense/ who done it aspect of this book was unexpected and so good!
“𝑺𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔 𝒖𝒑 𝒂 𝒓𝒐𝒐𝒎 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒍𝒌𝒔 𝒊𝒏, 𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒑𝒂𝒊𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝒆𝒚𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒂𝒚. 𝑺𝒉𝒆’𝒔 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒇𝒖𝒍 𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒑𝒉𝒚𝒔𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍 𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒃𝒖𝒕𝒆𝒔, 𝒊𝒕’𝒔 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒔𝒐𝒖𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒔𝒐 𝒄𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈.”
This book has:
~ Friend’s sister
~ Virgin fmc
~ Bad boy x good girl
~ Age gap (10 years)🫠
~ Forbidden/ Opposites attract
~ He falls first💗
~ Reformed playboy
~ Small town
~ Found family
~ Spice 🌶️🌶️
“𝑰 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒇𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖. 𝑰’𝒍𝒍 𝒌𝒆𝒆𝒑 𝒇𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖. 𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒆 𝒊𝒕.”
Fighting For You releases July 25th! Preorder now!
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Alise Monroe has hit it out of the park yet again! Another book that is beautifully written and makes you feel like any moment you will see Brooks ride by on his motorcycle.
And that bad boy x good girl trope just gets me every time! 🥵
Brooks and Margot have so much depth, trauma, and insecurities that make them the perfect pair. These characters were written so well and I applaud these authors for capturing such beautiful souls. I just want to hug Brooks and never let go, he truly deserves the world and more.
Also the suspense/ who done it aspect of this book was unexpected and so good!
“𝑺𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔 𝒖𝒑 𝒂 𝒓𝒐𝒐𝒎 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒍𝒌𝒔 𝒊𝒏, 𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒑𝒂𝒊𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝒆𝒚𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒂𝒚. 𝑺𝒉𝒆’𝒔 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒇𝒖𝒍 𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒑𝒉𝒚𝒔𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍 𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒃𝒖𝒕𝒆𝒔, 𝒊𝒕’𝒔 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒔𝒐𝒖𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒔𝒐 𝒄𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈.”
This book has:
~ Friend’s sister
~ Virgin fmc
~ Bad boy x good girl
~ Age gap (10 years)🫠
~ Forbidden/ Opposites attract
~ He falls first💗
~ Reformed playboy
~ Small town
~ Found family
~ Spice 🌶️🌶️
“𝑰 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒇𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖. 𝑰’𝒍𝒍 𝒌𝒆𝒆𝒑 𝒇𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖. 𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒆 𝒊𝒕.”
Fighting For You releases July 25th! Preorder now!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 233 reviews