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The Fight Within
Sean Mahoney is unapologetic about the way he sees the world and how he expresses such beliefs with a cutting, rough delivery. In his domain, things are black and white, good or bad, right or wrong, with a healthy dose of good cheer. A hard-working garbage collector from Queens, New York by day, and dedicated college student and acclaimed kick boxer by night, he appears to be an open book, giving himself over fully without the need for one to dig further. But upon closer inspection, it becomes plain he is a ticking time bomb with a secret past, using various coping mechanisms to hide trauma and emotional pain that threaten to take him under. However, one day, the very thing he abhors becomes too irresistible to pass up… A mature, divorced woman by the name of Treasure Chambers is his newfound fascination and he knows deep down the feeling is mutual. Treasure and Sean’s first meeting is full of spirited venom as the sarcastic garbage collector sizes her up in ways she hadn’t anticipated. She fights the attraction and his advances, for she has two children from a marriage that burnt to the ground, leaving a hole in her heart that seemed unable to be healed. Over time, the two discover they are more alike than they thought, and socio-economic and racial disparities are the very issues that tie them together, versus pushing them apart. As their love for one another grows, they are met with outside and internal opposition, judgment and a call to action in order to help heal themselves, and each other. Knowing without a shadow of a doubt that he has found a jewel in his life, will Sean be able to convince Treasure he is worth taking a chance on as he reveals his true self? Come along for a reading experience about hope, healing after the storm, and the true definition of love and trust built from ground zero. There is a fight within, but who will come out victorious?
488 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2014
58 people are currently reading
295 people want to read
About the author
Tiana Laveen
98 books508 followersTiana Laveen was born in Cincinnati, Ohio. She moved away, and now lives inside of her mind, but her heart is occupied with her husband, two children, and twisted imagination. She enjoys a fulfilling and enriching life that includes writing books, public speaking, drawing, painting, listening to music, cooking, and spending time with loved ones.
Tiana Laveen is a uniquely creative and innovative author whose romance fiction is geared towards those who not only want to temporarily escape from the daily routines of life, but also became pleasantly caught up in the twisted, well developed journeys of her unique characters. Tiana creates a painting with words as she guides her reader into the lives of each and every main character. Her dedication to detail and staying true to her characters is evident in each novel that she writes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
December 10, 2014
Meet Sean .....
Tall, muscular as hell, with some of the greenest, loveliest eyes she’d ever seen. His velvety, dark brown hair with subtle highlights was a bit of a mess, but it seemed intentional, as if he’d ruffled a dab of gel in the slightly wavy tresses..
Meet treasure
He looked at her real careful, taking her in, memorizing her just so. Her dark hair was cut in long layers, framing her oval shaped face. She was the color of coffee with a dash of cream.
Sean profession .. ............ C
I’m a sanitation engineer. That’s just a fancy way of sayin’ garbage collector or trash man.
How they meet...
“Are you the same person that left my trash here last week?”
An oops moment.....
The woman looked down and gasped, completely unaware that her damn robe tie had fallen from her waist, Nice bra and panties,They match, and black is my favorite color!” He cackled as he jumped on the back of the truck..
What turn out to be a trash worthy affair turn into pure,developed love affair with two polars opposite but has similarities all the same...
The relationship grew into an Underlying love affair......
These two had emotional baggages and bit by bit the load got lighter and lighter
Her knees slightly trembled, and she flirted with the possibility of collapsing from emotional exhaustion, right then and there.
Together they overcame ....
…And she loved him for it, for she was dating a billionaire with a heart made of pure gold…
Tiana Laveen your gift has touch me on so many levels and i want to thank you for writing such a heartwarming,emotional, loving and engaging tale about an average guy who wormed his way into this woman's life. She gave up on love because of the ball and chain holding her back but she endured found love and embrace it.
You don't shy away from the status quo and you always get your point across.
This beautiful tale cannot go without saying or stressing to others to get it!!
She is worth it and so much more!!
Tall, muscular as hell, with some of the greenest, loveliest eyes she’d ever seen. His velvety, dark brown hair with subtle highlights was a bit of a mess, but it seemed intentional, as if he’d ruffled a dab of gel in the slightly wavy tresses..
Meet treasure
He looked at her real careful, taking her in, memorizing her just so. Her dark hair was cut in long layers, framing her oval shaped face. She was the color of coffee with a dash of cream.
Sean profession .. ............ C
I’m a sanitation engineer. That’s just a fancy way of sayin’ garbage collector or trash man.
How they meet...
“Are you the same person that left my trash here last week?”
An oops moment.....The woman looked down and gasped, completely unaware that her damn robe tie had fallen from her waist, Nice bra and panties,They match, and black is my favorite color!” He cackled as he jumped on the back of the truck..
What turn out to be a trash worthy affair turn into pure,developed love affair with two polars opposite but has similarities all the same...
The relationship grew into an Underlying love affair......
These two had emotional baggages and bit by bit the load got lighter and lighter
Her knees slightly trembled, and she flirted with the possibility of collapsing from emotional exhaustion, right then and there.
Together they overcame ....
…And she loved him for it, for she was dating a billionaire with a heart made of pure gold…
Tiana Laveen your gift has touch me on so many levels and i want to thank you for writing such a heartwarming,emotional, loving and engaging tale about an average guy who wormed his way into this woman's life. She gave up on love because of the ball and chain holding her back but she endured found love and embrace it.
You don't shy away from the status quo and you always get your point across.
This beautiful tale cannot go without saying or stressing to others to get it!!
She is worth it and so much more!!
December 21, 2014
DNF at 48%
I'm bowing out. I concede defeat.
I cannot wade through this royal purple prose to extract the story underneath.
The hard part is the characters aren't bad. Sean in particular is great.
But the ornate writing, especially during this long-awaited sex scene, is insurmountable.
Ps: writing "uhhhhhhhhh" and "ahhhhhhhh" in sex scenes is stupid!
I'm bowing out. I concede defeat.
I cannot wade through this royal purple prose to extract the story underneath.
The hard part is the characters aren't bad. Sean in particular is great.
But the ornate writing, especially during this long-awaited sex scene, is insurmountable.
Ps: writing "uhhhhhhhhh" and "ahhhhhhhh" in sex scenes is stupid!
June 27, 2015
Tiana Laveen does it again. I loved it of course! This was a heartfelt story of man sees woman he wants. Man goes after what he wants. Everything about this was GENUINE. Love is about support, acceptance, helping one another find the way. Love is also smiling, joy, and making love. Two things that can always hold my attention are humor and sensuality! This author showed us that in abundance.
I was LMFAO at:
"I’m not checking for you, you aren’t on my radar, in my dreams, my thoughts, nothing! Go play in rush- hour traffic, Jackson. You can miss me with that bullshit!"
"“Fuck him and if he calls here again like he did last week with some bullshit, he can get some, too.”"
"I love your mother, and she loves you . Anyone that Treasure loves, I’d learn to love as well, but don’t make this harder than it has to be, because making things challenging for one another can be a two way street across the globe— and I’m an International traveller known to ignore traffic signs.”
"You make love like…just damn.”
Sean's Expression
I was LMFAO at:
"I’m not checking for you, you aren’t on my radar, in my dreams, my thoughts, nothing! Go play in rush- hour traffic, Jackson. You can miss me with that bullshit!"
"“Fuck him and if he calls here again like he did last week with some bullshit, he can get some, too.”"
"I love your mother, and she loves you . Anyone that Treasure loves, I’d learn to love as well, but don’t make this harder than it has to be, because making things challenging for one another can be a two way street across the globe— and I’m an International traveller known to ignore traffic signs.”
"You make love like…just damn.”
Sean's Expression
April 20, 2015
This started out really good but just seemed to feel like I was reading a lot of words with no real depth no wait there was depth but it felt more like rambling like it went on and on and on, sometimes I had to stop reading a paragraph and go on to the next because I had already gotten the point of that paragraph, sorry if that doesn't make sense just trying to get this out lol. Don't get me wrong the author is good but something is missing or its just too much... I'm the minor is this because there are a lot of good reviews which led me to this story... I'm going to read some of her other books I don't like to give up on a talented writer her style intrigues me. Ok now I'm rambling you get the point right??? Lol I just soooo wanted to like this dang it!!! Ok on to the next one.....
ir-to-reads
June 4, 2015I was NOT a fan of The Naughty Sins of a Saint. However, I started reading the sample of this book and really liked what I saw so far. I'm going to give this a shot and hope the few members of her fanbase who showed their asses because they didn't like my review for 'Saint' learn how to act like adults. I don't have time for their foolishness.
December 26, 2015
Killing me softly with her words...
Pfffft, 8 pages of warning, a dedication, some words for the readers before you get to actually read the book, which is long @ss long, yet again. (I've been binging Tiana Laveens stories today).
Obviously, I skipped all those introductions and warnings and explanations (really who reads those?) and went straight to the story. Which I liked. But just about. After reading three TLs books back to back today, I can honestly say: overkill with words is a thing. And the struggle is real.
Pfffft, 8 pages of warning, a dedication, some words for the readers before you get to actually read the book, which is long @ss long, yet again. (I've been binging Tiana Laveens stories today).
Obviously, I skipped all those introductions and warnings and explanations (really who reads those?) and went straight to the story. Which I liked. But just about. After reading three TLs books back to back today, I can honestly say: overkill with words is a thing. And the struggle is real.
December 10, 2014
ANTICIPATION...ANTICIPATION...ANTICIPATION!!!
Anticipation, as described in the book that holds all the words heretofore used by every living being, means: 1. The act of anticipating, 2. An expectation and 3. Foreknowledge, intuition and presentiment (which means a sense of something about to happen)."
My header precisely describes the very first emotion that took possession of my being upon hearing that on December 1, 2014 something extraordinary would be leashed upon the essence of my very soul. What is also extraordinary about the aforementioned long awaited event is that it would also be date stamped on multiple literary souls, in and at the exact time and manner!
This anticipatory emotional upheaval would infiltrate, take hold of, perpetuate a change in, toss around various and diversely acute nerve endings, hold captive and initiate explosive reviews from multiple reviewers trying to bring forth their very own unique and various viewpoints to describe the ultimate fulfillment experienced after their anticipation was born.
THIS REVIEW WILL SET FORTH THE STEP BY STEP BIRTH AND FULFILLMENT OF MY ANTICIPATION!
My reading partner, Nells, text to let me know that Tiana Laveen's much awaited book release had been set for December 1, 2014, and at that point my emotions prepared themselves to erupt into eurphoria! But, alas, there was a hold up on the release. My anticipation gland was delayed. I kept trolling various sites for naught and finally settled in just to wait just like the thousands of other avid readers were doing. FINALLY!!! I saw that the book was ready for release!!! I put my quick 1-click index finger to work and downloaded the ebook. I then sat and just looked at the cover Tiana had selected for her anticipated magnificent read. I just wanted to savor the beauty before I delved into the inner beauty of this much anticipated release. I savored and savored it until my heart was content.
And now my realization which I wish to share with you, my fellow readers. You see, because of Tiana Laveen's past record of only writing block buster, best seller books, I do not even have to wonder at what is beyond the cover of her books. Once you have been exposed to quality europhic ascensions time and time again, you already have foreknowledge that door number 1 will always be the one you pick; Tiana Laveen is behind door #1 each and every time. I do not have to crack the spine of this book in order to know that I am in for a journey like no other. An unduplicated journey! For no matter what the storyline is going to be, it will be uniquely set forth from the first word and the last punctuation mark. We, as members of her fan base, already are aware of her unique ability to continuously give us her very best.
Our fan base does not and never has been subjected to wondering what type of fare she will serve up. We already know. It will be a unique, well prepared, literary digestible meal for us to obtain literary nourishment for our starving literary souls. Starving, not because we lack nourishment from our literary leader, Tiana Laveen. No, we starve because Tiana is only human and therefore is limited in her ability to only turn out 1 quality read at a time. There are just so many books she can write at one time. Thus, we literally starve until the release of her gems reach us once again. We starve because quality writing is absent from the scene when she is not on the stage. We starve because we refuse to accept the mediocre writings of other authors that just can't seem to measure up to that which Tiana Laveen's fans have become continuously accustomed to - literary fulfilling nourishment.
There, you have it. I began my review with the word, "Anticipation." I shall end in the same vein - I will now put my anticipation to rest and will one crack the spine of "The Fight Within" by Tiana Laveen - already knowing that my anticipation will not be in vain!
Without having read not 1 word of this book, I already know it is worthy of being put on The New York Times best sellers' list. I adjure all who are starving for literary greatness to buy everything this fantastic author has ever written to relieve your literary starvation now. Nourishment is at hand!!
Anticipation, as described in the book that holds all the words heretofore used by every living being, means: 1. The act of anticipating, 2. An expectation and 3. Foreknowledge, intuition and presentiment (which means a sense of something about to happen)."
My header precisely describes the very first emotion that took possession of my being upon hearing that on December 1, 2014 something extraordinary would be leashed upon the essence of my very soul. What is also extraordinary about the aforementioned long awaited event is that it would also be date stamped on multiple literary souls, in and at the exact time and manner!
This anticipatory emotional upheaval would infiltrate, take hold of, perpetuate a change in, toss around various and diversely acute nerve endings, hold captive and initiate explosive reviews from multiple reviewers trying to bring forth their very own unique and various viewpoints to describe the ultimate fulfillment experienced after their anticipation was born.
THIS REVIEW WILL SET FORTH THE STEP BY STEP BIRTH AND FULFILLMENT OF MY ANTICIPATION!
My reading partner, Nells, text to let me know that Tiana Laveen's much awaited book release had been set for December 1, 2014, and at that point my emotions prepared themselves to erupt into eurphoria! But, alas, there was a hold up on the release. My anticipation gland was delayed. I kept trolling various sites for naught and finally settled in just to wait just like the thousands of other avid readers were doing. FINALLY!!! I saw that the book was ready for release!!! I put my quick 1-click index finger to work and downloaded the ebook. I then sat and just looked at the cover Tiana had selected for her anticipated magnificent read. I just wanted to savor the beauty before I delved into the inner beauty of this much anticipated release. I savored and savored it until my heart was content.
And now my realization which I wish to share with you, my fellow readers. You see, because of Tiana Laveen's past record of only writing block buster, best seller books, I do not even have to wonder at what is beyond the cover of her books. Once you have been exposed to quality europhic ascensions time and time again, you already have foreknowledge that door number 1 will always be the one you pick; Tiana Laveen is behind door #1 each and every time. I do not have to crack the spine of this book in order to know that I am in for a journey like no other. An unduplicated journey! For no matter what the storyline is going to be, it will be uniquely set forth from the first word and the last punctuation mark. We, as members of her fan base, already are aware of her unique ability to continuously give us her very best.
Our fan base does not and never has been subjected to wondering what type of fare she will serve up. We already know. It will be a unique, well prepared, literary digestible meal for us to obtain literary nourishment for our starving literary souls. Starving, not because we lack nourishment from our literary leader, Tiana Laveen. No, we starve because Tiana is only human and therefore is limited in her ability to only turn out 1 quality read at a time. There are just so many books she can write at one time. Thus, we literally starve until the release of her gems reach us once again. We starve because quality writing is absent from the scene when she is not on the stage. We starve because we refuse to accept the mediocre writings of other authors that just can't seem to measure up to that which Tiana Laveen's fans have become continuously accustomed to - literary fulfilling nourishment.
There, you have it. I began my review with the word, "Anticipation." I shall end in the same vein - I will now put my anticipation to rest and will one crack the spine of "The Fight Within" by Tiana Laveen - already knowing that my anticipation will not be in vain!
Without having read not 1 word of this book, I already know it is worthy of being put on The New York Times best sellers' list. I adjure all who are starving for literary greatness to buy everything this fantastic author has ever written to relieve your literary starvation now. Nourishment is at hand!!
December 7, 2014
We All Have A Fight Within!
This wonderfully well written book is another example of how gifted Tiana Laveen is at pushing all of us who love to read her books to think outside the box. There are so many lessons in this book. Tiana has us consider race, class, domestic issues, ageism and so on. Books like The Fight Within, are not just books to be read and shelved, but to be read again and again. Sean and Treasure connect through one of the most unlikely ways. This is a story of enormous growth for nearly every main character in the book. Every lesson imparted by the writer has reinforced my thinking. Each character is well written and extremely well developed. The story is truly enthralling and kept my attention throughout. I found myself experiencing a gamut of emotions (laughter, tears, sadness and elation). When reading a book by Tiana Laveen you will be deeply moved by the story as well as the characters. I love Tiana's style as it is so poetic and always flows so well. While reading the Fight Within, I felt as if I was in the scene with the character. I feel like I was with Sean when he shed a tear on the bridge! That was power full imagery that flowed in words to leave a powerful picture in my mind. Tiana you have done it again!!! What an awesome book! It is a shame that I cannot leave more stars! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO ALL who love a great story!!
This wonderfully well written book is another example of how gifted Tiana Laveen is at pushing all of us who love to read her books to think outside the box. There are so many lessons in this book. Tiana has us consider race, class, domestic issues, ageism and so on. Books like The Fight Within, are not just books to be read and shelved, but to be read again and again. Sean and Treasure connect through one of the most unlikely ways. This is a story of enormous growth for nearly every main character in the book. Every lesson imparted by the writer has reinforced my thinking. Each character is well written and extremely well developed. The story is truly enthralling and kept my attention throughout. I found myself experiencing a gamut of emotions (laughter, tears, sadness and elation). When reading a book by Tiana Laveen you will be deeply moved by the story as well as the characters. I love Tiana's style as it is so poetic and always flows so well. While reading the Fight Within, I felt as if I was in the scene with the character. I feel like I was with Sean when he shed a tear on the bridge! That was power full imagery that flowed in words to leave a powerful picture in my mind. Tiana you have done it again!!! What an awesome book! It is a shame that I cannot leave more stars! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO ALL who love a great story!!
January 5, 2015
In the Fight Within , we meet Treasure and Sean who meet under not so ideal circumstances, but find out that love comes in all forms and in the most unlikely of places. Treasure Chambers is recently divorced. Working hard as an interior designer to take care of herself and her two teenage children with little to no help from their well to do father. Due to her up bringing by a mother who showed no love and later a husband who cheated on her Treasure has some issues,Enter Sean Mahoney. Sean is not your everyday Trash collector, he is also a kick boxing champion and is working towards his Bachelors degree. Sean is a man accustom to hiding his true feelings and usually uses humor and sometimes indifference as a disguise. Sean has a strong since of family and is close to his Irish-American family, but he wants more and that more includes a certain older woman who he will have to convince to give up the fight and be his. I loved book. Sean and Treasure were so perfect together. The story had every thing, love, hot sex, self discovery, great dialog, I just love it. One of my favorite things about this book is how the author dealt with the challenges of dating a woman with children and the real issues that come up when a woman is dating with teenage children. Bravo! another winner, Great book s usual, Ms Laveen never disappoints!
October 7, 2015
Conquering the fight within
This was the fighting journey of Sean and treasure! The story was chock full of metaphors. For instance Shawn is a garbage collector. You know sanitation worker. He literally removed other peoples garbage but what was really interesting he could not remove the garbage in his own life. Sean has a lot of issues serious issues. Issues of self worth. He had great issue with people who had money and how they got it and how they used it. Constant battles of self worth. Chipping away at his soul. BUT you're always pulling for him because he is really such a good guy. With a great sense of humor. The love of his life is Treasure. Interesting name because she is truly his treasure she saves him from himself. She has her own esteem problems. Treasure had a mother who didn't love her didn't nurture her and as a result she married someone who didn't treasure her. These two flawed souls found themselves together in spite of all of the garbage that each brought to the relationship. You're going to root for these two I guarantee you
This was the fighting journey of Sean and treasure! The story was chock full of metaphors. For instance Shawn is a garbage collector. You know sanitation worker. He literally removed other peoples garbage but what was really interesting he could not remove the garbage in his own life. Sean has a lot of issues serious issues. Issues of self worth. He had great issue with people who had money and how they got it and how they used it. Constant battles of self worth. Chipping away at his soul. BUT you're always pulling for him because he is really such a good guy. With a great sense of humor. The love of his life is Treasure. Interesting name because she is truly his treasure she saves him from himself. She has her own esteem problems. Treasure had a mother who didn't love her didn't nurture her and as a result she married someone who didn't treasure her. These two flawed souls found themselves together in spite of all of the garbage that each brought to the relationship. You're going to root for these two I guarantee you
January 26, 2019
10 Stars!!!
I'm sure I will edit this review many times before I can truly articulate how great this book is!
Sean is a brash, tell it like it is, no holds barred trash talking sexy fool....and I love him! Treasure is awesome...she's bruised but not broken and so relatable.
There were so many laugh out loud moments and so many where I was sobbing...that ugly cry too! This book tapped into so many emotions; Tiana Laveen just wrote about my life and she doesn't even know it. So many scenes were like mirroring shit I've been through and it actually gave me a different perspective on some things.
This is going into my library hall of fame....believe that! The realness of the words, the situations that so many of us have dealt with made this story one of my all time favorites. Kudos yet again, Ms. Laveen for scoring another homerun!
I'm sure I will edit this review many times before I can truly articulate how great this book is!
Sean is a brash, tell it like it is, no holds barred trash talking sexy fool....and I love him! Treasure is awesome...she's bruised but not broken and so relatable.
There were so many laugh out loud moments and so many where I was sobbing...that ugly cry too! This book tapped into so many emotions; Tiana Laveen just wrote about my life and she doesn't even know it. So many scenes were like mirroring shit I've been through and it actually gave me a different perspective on some things.
This is going into my library hall of fame....believe that! The realness of the words, the situations that so many of us have dealt with made this story one of my all time favorites. Kudos yet again, Ms. Laveen for scoring another homerun!
December 29, 2014
THIS WAS SO GOOD AND PERFECTLY WRITTEN! LOVED IT TO BITS!
January 1, 2016
Everything Tiana Laveen does is perfect. Don't know what else to say. I loved Sean and Treasure together. YAY!
March 6, 2016
Rating: 4.5
I went through a few days of indecision after reading Night Broken by Patricia Briggs. It happens sometimes. I don’t know what I want to read so I flounder around for a little bit trying to figure it out. Turned out I wanted something simple but with a little bit of substance and from reading Tiana’s last book I knew I could count on her to give me that.
I went through a few days of indecision after reading Night Broken by Patricia Briggs. It happens sometimes. I don’t know what I want to read so I flounder around for a little bit trying to figure it out. Turned out I wanted something simple but with a little bit of substance and from reading Tiana’s last book I knew I could count on her to give me that.
The Fight Within follows Sean Mahoney and Treasure Chambers. Sean is a 34 year old sanitation worker, going to school to get his degree while coaching a baseball team and training vigorously for his kickboxing matches. Treasure is a 42 year old interior designer, divorcee with two teenage kids, a Mercedes which is parked in front of a very nice house in an expensive neighborhood. Treasure is very classy, reserved and polite. Sean has no filter, speaks his mind and does what he wants when he wants regardless of how it looks or what people may think of him. They’re two completely different people in different stages of their lives. But you know what they say, opposites attract.
What I love the most about Tiana’s writing is that while her stories are for the most part fun to read and entertaining, they don’t follow the typical mold of most contemporary novels. You know...where there are two characters introduced, they end up together and fall in love, there’s some conflict and for whatever reason they break up only to realize they made a mistake and they get back together and live HEA. I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with that, because I enjoy those stories just as much as any other. But Tiana’s stories always have a lesson or deeper meaning to them and that holds true for The Fight Within.
It was more than just a love story, it was also about self discovery. Treasure is finding herself and learning to once again be confident and love who she is after being in a relationship where she was put down and talked down to. Where her self esteem and her spirit were all but completely wiped out. Sean’s journey is a little different. He’s been through some things as we all have but he hasn’t dealt with them in the best of ways and so he subconsciously has an ax to grind with any and everyone who isn’t like him....struggling. Meeting Treasure and hearing her story and seeing her perspective on the world makes him take a look at himself and reconsider his self worth, value and the way he views those around him. They both come together and help one another.
Besides all of the deep and philosophical stuff, this book was a really fun and entertaining read. Sean is hilarious and says whatever is on his mind and I love reading about characters like that because it makes them feel more real and relatable. I enjoyed reading about them going on their many dates and just hanging out. There were long stretches of pages throughout the book where I was just smiling and laughing.
Everything wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows though...The last book I read by Tiana Laveen was very racially driven. And I’m not talking discrimination or profiling, no.. There were Nazi’s. In that book, there was a warning regarding the racism, I guess to give the reader one last chance to bail. And for that book the warning was definitely warranted. There was a similar warning regarding racism in this book however...I really don’t see why. There were mentions of racism in The Fight Within, but the situations were never really delved into or resolved. Treasures children mention that they were being bullied in school in a racially derogatory kind of way...but then it’s never brought up again. My issue isn’t even with the unnecessary warning. My issue is that such an important topic was brought up in the story but was treated like a throwaway. Coming from a black author that really bothers me.
Other than all of THAT! I really enjoyed this book and I already have intentions on reading more of Tiana’s work. Who knows....she might become an autobuy author for me if things keep going the way they have with the last three book I’ve read by her.
September 12, 2015
WHAT AN AMAZING SURPRISE!!!
This is my 1st book from Tiana Laveen, and I am so happy that I read this amazing story! I read a lot, and it's nice to find a new author that speaks to me. It's almost like finding a treasure! Laveen has a way of telling a story, that literally paints a picture in my mind, as I'm reading word for word. The pace was perfect, and I think her character development was spot on! Not only was the story itself intriguing, but believable. The chemistry and intimacy was hot, and it felt new and real, because of Laveen's writing style. Most importantly, this story had every emotion possible. I laughed, almost cried, and sometimes I just felt. I also learned that I need to "not" judge. I find myself looking at sanitation workers differently now. Not that I thought anything negative before, but that's just it, I have never really paid attention until this book...this author! I will definitely read more from her. PS: I want a garbage collector, too LOL!
This is my 1st book from Tiana Laveen, and I am so happy that I read this amazing story! I read a lot, and it's nice to find a new author that speaks to me. It's almost like finding a treasure! Laveen has a way of telling a story, that literally paints a picture in my mind, as I'm reading word for word. The pace was perfect, and I think her character development was spot on! Not only was the story itself intriguing, but believable. The chemistry and intimacy was hot, and it felt new and real, because of Laveen's writing style. Most importantly, this story had every emotion possible. I laughed, almost cried, and sometimes I just felt. I also learned that I need to "not" judge. I find myself looking at sanitation workers differently now. Not that I thought anything negative before, but that's just it, I have never really paid attention until this book...this author! I will definitely read more from her. PS: I want a garbage collector, too LOL!
May 30, 2016
Tiana never disappoints!
Loved this book. Loved the story of blue-collar worker and a well-established older woman. They both taught each other a lot about love, respect and understanding. Another great book from Ms. Laveen.
Loved this book. Loved the story of blue-collar worker and a well-established older woman. They both taught each other a lot about love, respect and understanding. Another great book from Ms. Laveen.
December 22, 2014
Loved it. Could not put it down. Kept me laughing and cried a bit. Author is fantastic. Intend to read more of the authors work.
February 2, 2015
Awesome
A Fight With In really makes you think about you and your life and anything in between. I really laughed at some of the antics between Sean and Treasure great book
A Fight With In really makes you think about you and your life and anything in between. I really laughed at some of the antics between Sean and Treasure great book
February 15, 2018
The Fight Within
I was compelled to read this book because of the bad reviews. See, I'm one of those readers that want to know why another reader thinks a book is not good and bad reviews don't deter me from reading a book, unless all the reviews are bad.
I enjoyed 'The Fight Within,' but not as much as some of the other books I have read by that author. It was a bit wordy but I think the author was trying to get the readers to understand the characters, on a deeper level.
As I said in another one of my reviews, this author writes life stories and that is why I believe her books are long and wordy. I can tell that she desires that you connect with her characters to become your friends. She's not just throwing words on a page, she is giving you life situations and telling you that if her characters can overcome them, so can you.
This story is good and the author did the right thing by allowing us, the readers, to see the growth of this couple. So few books show the journey and beauty of growing in love. Most of us want to fall in love but growing in love is what will sustain Sean and Treasure. I would give this book 3 1/2 stars but since you can't give half stars, I will give it a 4.
I was compelled to read this book because of the bad reviews. See, I'm one of those readers that want to know why another reader thinks a book is not good and bad reviews don't deter me from reading a book, unless all the reviews are bad.
I enjoyed 'The Fight Within,' but not as much as some of the other books I have read by that author. It was a bit wordy but I think the author was trying to get the readers to understand the characters, on a deeper level.
As I said in another one of my reviews, this author writes life stories and that is why I believe her books are long and wordy. I can tell that she desires that you connect with her characters to become your friends. She's not just throwing words on a page, she is giving you life situations and telling you that if her characters can overcome them, so can you.
This story is good and the author did the right thing by allowing us, the readers, to see the growth of this couple. So few books show the journey and beauty of growing in love. Most of us want to fall in love but growing in love is what will sustain Sean and Treasure. I would give this book 3 1/2 stars but since you can't give half stars, I will give it a 4.
August 30, 2023
The Fight Within
A great title! It fits the story! I Love thus author's book, all! Whenever I want a great read that I know will hold my attention, I just pick up one of her books and never disappointed! This plot between a older woman and younger man is really my first book of this type! I Loved it and it captures your attention on the fact that every relationship is different and it is okay to be! Sean and Treasure proved that love can happen in any circumstance if you are true to the relationship! Treasures ex husband failed and paid for his decision to love himself more than his family, too much easy tail outside his marriage and family! France and Sean, I was cheering for them to make it and was true love!
A great title! It fits the story! I Love thus author's book, all! Whenever I want a great read that I know will hold my attention, I just pick up one of her books and never disappointed! This plot between a older woman and younger man is really my first book of this type! I Loved it and it captures your attention on the fact that every relationship is different and it is okay to be! Sean and Treasure proved that love can happen in any circumstance if you are true to the relationship! Treasures ex husband failed and paid for his decision to love himself more than his family, too much easy tail outside his marriage and family! France and Sean, I was cheering for them to make it and was true love!
September 12, 2020
Can’t get enough
I first learned of this author when I read the N word and I was hooked ever since, I love how the story is slow burn. I love the fact the author doesn’t drag out the love you, it is said in a reasonable time and not at the end of the book. That is realistic, but even in that love you still have your trials and that is what this book shows. Sean and Treasure both healed and became the people they wanted and needed.
I first learned of this author when I read the N word and I was hooked ever since, I love how the story is slow burn. I love the fact the author doesn’t drag out the love you, it is said in a reasonable time and not at the end of the book. That is realistic, but even in that love you still have your trials and that is what this book shows. Sean and Treasure both healed and became the people they wanted and needed.
August 7, 2021
Decent read
Enjoyable but kind of slow paced. I have to admit that I'm a fan of the author but this book took me a long time to finish. Wasn't a bad read just kinda dry in some spots.
Enjoyable but kind of slow paced. I have to admit that I'm a fan of the author but this book took me a long time to finish. Wasn't a bad read just kinda dry in some spots.
September 28, 2021
Really Good Story!
This story, although a romance really is a story of self examination and change. Our willingness to change can put us on course for our best life. I really enjoyed this read.
This story, although a romance really is a story of self examination and change. Our willingness to change can put us on course for our best life. I really enjoyed this read.
January 7, 2023
The Fight Has Been Eon
This book was amazing. Tiana Laveen
has become one of my favorite authors. I still blush at the language she uses but she can paint a vivid picture with her words. Read Treasure & Sean’s romantic adventure & you won’t be disappointed.
This book was amazing. Tiana Laveen
has become one of my favorite authors. I still blush at the language she uses but she can paint a vivid picture with her words. Read Treasure & Sean’s romantic adventure & you won’t be disappointed.
April 1, 2018
Started slow and I had put it aside but I'm glad I continued.
I would give it 5 stars if for no other reason than the hero was not a billionaire. Hero was an average Joe, but amazingly well written.
All characters were fully fleshed out and there was no idiotic break up over some ridiculous crap that served no purpose except to provide some idiotic drama.
Writer was a bit too verbose and some of the internal dialogue could be skipped.
Well written enjoyable read.
I would give it 5 stars if for no other reason than the hero was not a billionaire. Hero was an average Joe, but amazingly well written.
All characters were fully fleshed out and there was no idiotic break up over some ridiculous crap that served no purpose except to provide some idiotic drama.
Writer was a bit too verbose and some of the internal dialogue could be skipped.
Well written enjoyable read.
June 9, 2019
What's not to love about The Fight Within😍
March 20, 2017
Good read but started off a little slow; once it picked up...it picked up. I most enjoyed the honesty the H and h brought to their relationship. Not once did either ever have to questioned where he/she stood with regards to each. I'll definitely have to read more of this author's work.
August 18, 2020
Just too much cussing
I just couldn’t get into this book, it may be a good read, however it just to be too much trying to replace all the cuss words with other word. Sorry not for me!!
I just couldn’t get into this book, it may be a good read, however it just to be too much trying to replace all the cuss words with other word. Sorry not for me!!
September 5, 2016
“The Fight Within” is the first novel I have read by Tiana Laveen, and it definitely won’t be the last.
Sean is a garbage man who goes to college and also kickboxes. He wants to improve himself and his life and he is willing to work hard to achieve his goals. He tells it like it is, completely unapologetically. He’s tough and he’s strong and a good-hearted man. I couldn’t help but fall in love with him. He is everything I want in a guy! <3
Treasure is upper middle-class, a bit older, and a single mother who went through a difficult divorce from her cheating ex-husband.
Although Sean and Treasure’s initial meeting wasn’t actually ideal, Sean pursued Treasure and she realized what a beautiful man he was inside and out, and that he was just the man to trust with her heart.
Ms. Laveen has a disclaimer in the beginning of her book “warning” the reader of her writing style. She is a very detailed writer, or in other words — a bit “wordy”. Normally I don’t particularly care for that, but it didn’t bother me at all with “The Fight Within”. I think it helped the story, especially in regards to Sean’s character.
The sex scenes were absolutely delicious. Incredibly hot and scorching! I LOVED THEM!
This was a great book and I highly recommend it. I also look forward to discovering other stories by the author. :)
Sean is a garbage man who goes to college and also kickboxes. He wants to improve himself and his life and he is willing to work hard to achieve his goals. He tells it like it is, completely unapologetically. He’s tough and he’s strong and a good-hearted man. I couldn’t help but fall in love with him. He is everything I want in a guy! <3
Treasure is upper middle-class, a bit older, and a single mother who went through a difficult divorce from her cheating ex-husband.
Although Sean and Treasure’s initial meeting wasn’t actually ideal, Sean pursued Treasure and she realized what a beautiful man he was inside and out, and that he was just the man to trust with her heart.
Ms. Laveen has a disclaimer in the beginning of her book “warning” the reader of her writing style. She is a very detailed writer, or in other words — a bit “wordy”. Normally I don’t particularly care for that, but it didn’t bother me at all with “The Fight Within”. I think it helped the story, especially in regards to Sean’s character.
The sex scenes were absolutely delicious. Incredibly hot and scorching! I LOVED THEM!
This was a great book and I highly recommend it. I also look forward to discovering other stories by the author. :)
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