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Brawling Hearts
Pine Valley is a school rich in both history and legacy, and it’s once more opening its doors to another year of students.
Zia Xander has the perfect life, with everything one could ever imagine or need. Some call him a criminal, others a king, but to him, it does not matter. As one of the leading families in Pine Valley, he wants for nothing, except happiness.
One night, driven by betrayal and loneliness, he drives into a storm, only to find the very person he has been looking for.
Right person, wrong time. It’s all he can think of as he returns to his life, but what happens when that very same person invades his picture-perfect world and puts themselves in danger?
Nikko West has been aiming for the world title since he was a child. He lives, eats, and breathes boxing, until the night when he runs into Zia Xander, who throws his mundane life into disarray. Nikko has never felt this way about anyone, and he is determined to make Zia his no matter what it takes.
Can Zia and Nikko face the looming storm? Will they survive the threats that arise just by being together?
Can they have their happily ever after, or will brawling hearts be all that is left?
Zia Xander has the perfect life, with everything one could ever imagine or need. Some call him a criminal, others a king, but to him, it does not matter. As one of the leading families in Pine Valley, he wants for nothing, except happiness.
One night, driven by betrayal and loneliness, he drives into a storm, only to find the very person he has been looking for.
Right person, wrong time. It’s all he can think of as he returns to his life, but what happens when that very same person invades his picture-perfect world and puts themselves in danger?
Nikko West has been aiming for the world title since he was a child. He lives, eats, and breathes boxing, until the night when he runs into Zia Xander, who throws his mundane life into disarray. Nikko has never felt this way about anyone, and he is determined to make Zia his no matter what it takes.
Can Zia and Nikko face the looming storm? Will they survive the threats that arise just by being together?
Can they have their happily ever after, or will brawling hearts be all that is left?
- GenresDark RomanceM M Romance
394 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 30, 2026
27 people are currently reading
282 people want to read
About the author
K.A. Knight
94 books12.9k followersK.A Knight is a Romance author from a little town in England. She writes the monsters you love to hate. The crazier the better.
She loves her fur babies, coffee and a good book. Katie also has an obsession with monster flicks, and plans to re-watch them all!
Facebook Reader Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/Katie...
Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/KatieKnightA...
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http://eepurl.com/drLLoj
She loves her fur babies, coffee and a good book. Katie also has an obsession with monster flicks, and plans to re-watch them all!
Facebook Reader Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/Katie...
Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/KatieKnightA...
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/katieknight...
http://eepurl.com/drLLoj
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
January 30, 2026
ARC Review
This is the second book I’ve read in this series and, honestly? It might just be my favorite so far.
The author writes incredibly emotional MM romances in this series, with characters who give absolutely everything, and in this book she takes it even further. Nikko is a total dream, and Zia is just unique and wonderful.
Our main men are Nikko and Zia. Nikko is a boxer who, surprisingly, has nothing violent about him. He’s extremely kind, sweet, caring, and very protective, especially of Zia, toward whom he feels that need almost instantly. Boxing and the championship were his entire life… and even then, he felt deeply lonely. Everything changes when he meets Zia.
Zia is a “businessman,” ridiculously rich, insanely intelligent, a little unhinged, absolutely beautiful, and sweet in his own way. They come from completely different worlds, but they were clearly made for each other.
And I love how fashionable Zia is. As a fashion lover, I was completely obsessed with the details of his outfits and always excited to see what he’d wear next. Who would’ve thought a man in a white suit, with flowers, wearing nothing underneath would look that good? Yes. Absolutely yes.
But what I love most about Zia is the force of nature that he is. No shame, no fear—he owns exactly who he is, unapologetically, without caring about prejudice. The way he handles Nikko’s father is just incredible, he invites him to dance!! Amazing 🤩
I completely gave in to some of the most iconic and even romantic scenes in the book. That whole bath and body cream scene? Nikko going to Luna’s makeup shop to buy all the creams and beauty products Zia might need… when they were just fuck buddies?! And then he even wants to buy a box to store all of Zia’s jewelry. Seriously, the “most violent” one in the relationship, the boxer, is also the most sensitive and wonderful. And the author’s writing wraps us up in this sweet, intense sensuality in the best way.
The intensity and character growth are built in such a gradual and harmonious way. Even while denying their feelings from the very first glance, they grow into their love in a powerful, tender, and deeply respectful way. I especially loved Zia’s growth, after a toxic, convenience-based relationship, while trying to rediscover himself, he ends up finding something truly extraordinary with Nikko.
The whole plot grabbed me from the very first page. They meet during a really difficult moment in Zia’s life, like I mentioned before, when he feels the need to find himself and truly step into who he is, and Nikko finds him and helps him through an incredibly hard night. From that moment on, Nikko knows he needs Zia in his life. Zia, after going through a traumatic relationship, puts up a lot of walls, but Nikko is stubborn and will do everything he can to reach Zia’s heart. 💚
The fact that Nikko is a boxer fighting to become someone in life despite having nothing, while Zia is extremely rich, creates a strong rich/poor contrast that they have to overcome without it ever feeling uncomfortable. The author handles taboo topics with so much subtlety, always realistic, never idealized or overly romanticized.
And don’t think this story is all flowers, because it’s not. The drama is real, and it hits hard!
The first book already won me over, and this one was no exception 💚
Such an amazing story. I loved it.
Thank you so much, Katie for the opportunity to read this story in ARC. I’m deeply grateful 🙏
This is the second book I’ve read in this series and, honestly? It might just be my favorite so far.
The author writes incredibly emotional MM romances in this series, with characters who give absolutely everything, and in this book she takes it even further. Nikko is a total dream, and Zia is just unique and wonderful.
Our main men are Nikko and Zia. Nikko is a boxer who, surprisingly, has nothing violent about him. He’s extremely kind, sweet, caring, and very protective, especially of Zia, toward whom he feels that need almost instantly. Boxing and the championship were his entire life… and even then, he felt deeply lonely. Everything changes when he meets Zia.
Zia is a “businessman,” ridiculously rich, insanely intelligent, a little unhinged, absolutely beautiful, and sweet in his own way. They come from completely different worlds, but they were clearly made for each other.
And I love how fashionable Zia is. As a fashion lover, I was completely obsessed with the details of his outfits and always excited to see what he’d wear next. Who would’ve thought a man in a white suit, with flowers, wearing nothing underneath would look that good? Yes. Absolutely yes.
But what I love most about Zia is the force of nature that he is. No shame, no fear—he owns exactly who he is, unapologetically, without caring about prejudice. The way he handles Nikko’s father is just incredible, he invites him to dance!! Amazing 🤩
I completely gave in to some of the most iconic and even romantic scenes in the book. That whole bath and body cream scene? Nikko going to Luna’s makeup shop to buy all the creams and beauty products Zia might need… when they were just fuck buddies?! And then he even wants to buy a box to store all of Zia’s jewelry. Seriously, the “most violent” one in the relationship, the boxer, is also the most sensitive and wonderful. And the author’s writing wraps us up in this sweet, intense sensuality in the best way.
The intensity and character growth are built in such a gradual and harmonious way. Even while denying their feelings from the very first glance, they grow into their love in a powerful, tender, and deeply respectful way. I especially loved Zia’s growth, after a toxic, convenience-based relationship, while trying to rediscover himself, he ends up finding something truly extraordinary with Nikko.
The whole plot grabbed me from the very first page. They meet during a really difficult moment in Zia’s life, like I mentioned before, when he feels the need to find himself and truly step into who he is, and Nikko finds him and helps him through an incredibly hard night. From that moment on, Nikko knows he needs Zia in his life. Zia, after going through a traumatic relationship, puts up a lot of walls, but Nikko is stubborn and will do everything he can to reach Zia’s heart. 💚
The fact that Nikko is a boxer fighting to become someone in life despite having nothing, while Zia is extremely rich, creates a strong rich/poor contrast that they have to overcome without it ever feeling uncomfortable. The author handles taboo topics with so much subtlety, always realistic, never idealized or overly romanticized.
And don’t think this story is all flowers, because it’s not. The drama is real, and it hits hard!
The first book already won me over, and this one was no exception 💚
Such an amazing story. I loved it.
Thank you so much, Katie for the opportunity to read this story in ARC. I’m deeply grateful 🙏
Review of advance copy received from Author
Overall ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
KA Knight has done it again. Seriously… can she ever write a book I don’t like? At this point, I’m convinced the answer is no 😂
I absolutely loved Brawling Hearts, especially the relationship between Zia and Nikko. The push and pull between them was to die for!
Zia’s determination to keep his walls up and avoid attachment was frustrating in the best way, and Nikko’s attitude about it all? Perfection. He doesn’t beg, he doesn’t fold and he stands his ground, and I loved hum for it.
There were definitely moments where I wanted to reach into the book and smack some sense into Zia, but honestly, that just made the payoff even better. The story flowed so well and everything came together beautifully in the end.
This has some strong characters, great chemistry, and that classic KA Knight magic, (I swear its crack) I devoured this one and loved every second of it. 💙
KA Knight has done it again. Seriously… can she ever write a book I don’t like? At this point, I’m convinced the answer is no 😂
I absolutely loved Brawling Hearts, especially the relationship between Zia and Nikko. The push and pull between them was to die for!
Zia’s determination to keep his walls up and avoid attachment was frustrating in the best way, and Nikko’s attitude about it all? Perfection. He doesn’t beg, he doesn’t fold and he stands his ground, and I loved hum for it.
There were definitely moments where I wanted to reach into the book and smack some sense into Zia, but honestly, that just made the payoff even better. The story flowed so well and everything came together beautifully in the end.
This has some strong characters, great chemistry, and that classic KA Knight magic, (I swear its crack) I devoured this one and loved every second of it. 💙
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another great instalment from Katie for this series. I loved Zia and Nikko so much. The push and pull between them was brilliant and made the end game so satisfying.
Zia has been burned before, so he is determined to keep his walls sky-high, but Nikko knows actions speak than words and shows Zia exactly why he is the man for him.
Throw in assassination attempts, tension, boxing matches, and a whole lot of spice, and you're in for a good time.
I really enjoyed this ride, so if you're looking for an MM romance to sink your claws into, give it a go.
Thank you so much to Katie for this advanced copy!
Zia has been burned before, so he is determined to keep his walls sky-high, but Nikko knows actions speak than words and shows Zia exactly why he is the man for him.
Throw in assassination attempts, tension, boxing matches, and a whole lot of spice, and you're in for a good time.
I really enjoyed this ride, so if you're looking for an MM romance to sink your claws into, give it a go.
Thank you so much to Katie for this advanced copy!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I just fall in love every time Katie writes a book…
I started reading Katie’s books with this series, so it has a special place in my heart. The way she weaves the characters, their emotions, the plot and the action together is always intriguing and so enjoyable. I can never resist falling in love with these characters and their story.
Zia was a badass bratty mf, I loved his sassy ass. He reconstructed himself after a bad time and came back stronger. He guarded his heart but how could he? It had been stolen even before he could close the vault. I have to say, his empathy, loyalty and love even after being wronged were some qualities that made me adore him. He was a gangster, but a good man too.
My man Nikko tho? He was a DOWN BAD MF FROM JUMP!! He was fumbling because of the ball of feelings that took over his life the moment he met Zia…and it only snowballed from there. But Nikko was so open, honest and genuine he wanted those feelings out there, proud of his love for Zia. Nothing would deter him, his trust, acceptance and utter devotion had me rooting for him from page one.
I just love the way Katie writes, her books are always an instant read and recommend from me. I’ll never shut up about them…
Oh and don’t even think I forgot Katie! Those hints of Starracing we got?? Yeah, I clocked that! MACKIE BETTER BE NEXT I BEG!!!
I get to read this early? Can you believe it? Thank you a thousand times over for the opportunity!!
Quotes:
I turn back to the view, wondering where Nikko is and if he's thinking of me like I am him.
I needed that connection. Zia is a burning bonfire, and I was simply ash until he reignited me and my passion.
I thought I was fine moving past that one night, but after a single look at him, I know I'm a liar.
I need to see Zia again.
I want him in my life in any way I can get him.
I need him in a way I've never needed anyone, and I couldn't stop even if I wanted to.
"Do you like putting me in my place? Do you like knowing I want you so fucking much 1 can't think straight, and that I want you in a way I've never wanted anyone else?"
Do fuck buddies look at each other like this?
Do they hold each other tight and never want to let go?
I don't know, but I don't care when I'm drowning in his eyes.
Despite all my training and how long I can fight for, one touch from him makes me weak.
"You're not the only one who can fight, Nikko. If anyone tries to touch you, they are dead. Remember that. You are willing to fight for me, but I'm willing to kill to keep what's mine."
I want my arms to be your home. I want your crazy. I want you in a way I've never wanted anything before, not even that championship.
He presses a kiss over my pounding heart. Does he know it only beats for him?
"I never believed in any type of religion, but if I had to, Id pick you, Zia Xander, my divinely beautiful man."
I started reading Katie’s books with this series, so it has a special place in my heart. The way she weaves the characters, their emotions, the plot and the action together is always intriguing and so enjoyable. I can never resist falling in love with these characters and their story.
Zia was a badass bratty mf, I loved his sassy ass. He reconstructed himself after a bad time and came back stronger. He guarded his heart but how could he? It had been stolen even before he could close the vault. I have to say, his empathy, loyalty and love even after being wronged were some qualities that made me adore him. He was a gangster, but a good man too.
My man Nikko tho? He was a DOWN BAD MF FROM JUMP!! He was fumbling because of the ball of feelings that took over his life the moment he met Zia…and it only snowballed from there. But Nikko was so open, honest and genuine he wanted those feelings out there, proud of his love for Zia. Nothing would deter him, his trust, acceptance and utter devotion had me rooting for him from page one.
I just love the way Katie writes, her books are always an instant read and recommend from me. I’ll never shut up about them…
Oh and don’t even think I forgot Katie! Those hints of Starracing we got?? Yeah, I clocked that! MACKIE BETTER BE NEXT I BEG!!!
I get to read this early? Can you believe it? Thank you a thousand times over for the opportunity!!
Quotes:
I turn back to the view, wondering where Nikko is and if he's thinking of me like I am him.
I needed that connection. Zia is a burning bonfire, and I was simply ash until he reignited me and my passion.
I thought I was fine moving past that one night, but after a single look at him, I know I'm a liar.
I need to see Zia again.
I want him in my life in any way I can get him.
I need him in a way I've never needed anyone, and I couldn't stop even if I wanted to.
"Do you like putting me in my place? Do you like knowing I want you so fucking much 1 can't think straight, and that I want you in a way I've never wanted anyone else?"
Do fuck buddies look at each other like this?
Do they hold each other tight and never want to let go?
I don't know, but I don't care when I'm drowning in his eyes.
Despite all my training and how long I can fight for, one touch from him makes me weak.
"You're not the only one who can fight, Nikko. If anyone tries to touch you, they are dead. Remember that. You are willing to fight for me, but I'm willing to kill to keep what's mine."
I want my arms to be your home. I want your crazy. I want you in a way I've never wanted anything before, not even that championship.
He presses a kiss over my pounding heart. Does he know it only beats for him?
"I never believed in any type of religion, but if I had to, Id pick you, Zia Xander, my divinely beautiful man."
Review of advance copy
“I want…to be free for one moment and not have to be what they expect me to be.”
Never judge a person by their appearance…they could be the deadliest in the room.
The one true love…could drop his mask showing you their true colours.
Rich…but broken inside.
Fate does love a stormy night and an angel passing by in an unexpected place…
“You are willing to fight for me, but I’m willing to kill to keep what’s mine.”
Pine Valley has new characters and K.A Knight is not and never will hold back!
Introducing, one of the leading sons of the Four families Zia Xander, who may come across as being flamboyant with his dress sense but don’t be fooled. The Xander family is feared, ruthless with their businesses and Zia knows how to play dirty in the conference room…and the streets. After he reaches his limit, Zia cuts all ties with his ex and closes his heart from ever falling in love again, just wanting to rebuild his life again.
However, rebuilding doesn’t mean you can’t lower your guard and allow someone to stumble into your life to shake you up.
Enter Pine Valley hopeful boxing champion in the making, Nikko West. His first baby steps were no doubt taken in the boxing ring at Nexus that his family owns. Nikko may look all brawl, intimating and doesn’t have a lot to say…but, with a big heart and the right male to bump into on a faithful night Nikko is opening himself up to Zia.
I need him in a way I’ve never needed anyone, and I couldn’t stop even if I wanted too.
Zia & Nikko were the perfect opposite attraction and still work amazingly together! Even just as characters on their own, I loved them there was just something about how this approach was taken. Zia was from a mafia style background yet he wasn’t your typical male and then a switch would happen. It suddenly changed Zia character…it was great reading the development and how different he was in situations within this story. They really did compliment each other, Nikko was a strong character that you would overlook at first glance…until you look closer at him then see there was a lot more to him.
It was just brilliant reading and stepped it up a level for the Pine Valley series!
“We are both fighters, that’s what we have in common, and I will always fight for us.”
Never judge a person by their appearance…they could be the deadliest in the room.
The one true love…could drop his mask showing you their true colours.
Rich…but broken inside.
Fate does love a stormy night and an angel passing by in an unexpected place…
“You are willing to fight for me, but I’m willing to kill to keep what’s mine.”
Pine Valley has new characters and K.A Knight is not and never will hold back!
Introducing, one of the leading sons of the Four families Zia Xander, who may come across as being flamboyant with his dress sense but don’t be fooled. The Xander family is feared, ruthless with their businesses and Zia knows how to play dirty in the conference room…and the streets. After he reaches his limit, Zia cuts all ties with his ex and closes his heart from ever falling in love again, just wanting to rebuild his life again.
However, rebuilding doesn’t mean you can’t lower your guard and allow someone to stumble into your life to shake you up.
Enter Pine Valley hopeful boxing champion in the making, Nikko West. His first baby steps were no doubt taken in the boxing ring at Nexus that his family owns. Nikko may look all brawl, intimating and doesn’t have a lot to say…but, with a big heart and the right male to bump into on a faithful night Nikko is opening himself up to Zia.
I need him in a way I’ve never needed anyone, and I couldn’t stop even if I wanted too.
Zia & Nikko were the perfect opposite attraction and still work amazingly together! Even just as characters on their own, I loved them there was just something about how this approach was taken. Zia was from a mafia style background yet he wasn’t your typical male and then a switch would happen. It suddenly changed Zia character…it was great reading the development and how different he was in situations within this story. They really did compliment each other, Nikko was a strong character that you would overlook at first glance…until you look closer at him then see there was a lot more to him.
It was just brilliant reading and stepped it up a level for the Pine Valley series!
“We are both fighters, that’s what we have in common, and I will always fight for us.”
January 29, 2026
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️stars
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️spicy
Tropes:
-MM romance
-Dual POV
-Strangers to lovers
-Second chance
-Criminal and boxer
-Golden retriever and black cat
-Possessive
-Touch him and die
Brawling Hearts is the second MM romance by Katie that I’ve read, and I loved it just as much as the first in the series. I’m so glad that I read this series because I trusted Katie’s writing, and it had great chemistry between strong characters. Each couple is beautifully written, and I love how much they care for and understand each other so deeply. I enjoyed that this book is part of the same series, but not part of the original friend group. It does take place in Pine Valley, just like the past books in the series, but we meet two new characters that we haven’t met before, Zia and Nikko.
Zia Xander is the most powerful boss in town. When we first meet him, we see that he has been in a relationship with his fiancée, Faiz, for a long time. Faiz however, keeps cheating on him and Zia is finally done. He is sick of loving him and feeling used, so Zia leaves the party and that’s when he meets Nikko. Nikko West is a boxer who is going for the championship title, but happens to run into Zia on the side of the road during a storm. Nikko falls hard for him the moment he sees him, but Zia has his walls up after all that he went through with his ex-fiancée. There is definitely attraction between them, but Zia isn’t ready.
The chemistry between Zia and Nikko was done so well. I loved how supportive they both are for each other and how Nikko wasn’t going to give up just because Zia wasn’t ready. I loved the possessiveness between them and how that helped them realize that they loved each other. The ending of the book, I didn’t see that coming and it made me cry, but also happy. It was mixed feelings. I hope there will be more books in this series with Zia’s friends.
I think my favorite part of the book was how supportive both fathers were to their son throughout the whole book. I feel I always read about how fathers are such assholes. It was so sweet to see them being understanding and supportive in both their son’s life choices, but also for the one they chose to love.
Thank you so much for the chance to read this arc!!
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️spicy
Tropes:
-MM romance
-Dual POV
-Strangers to lovers
-Second chance
-Criminal and boxer
-Golden retriever and black cat
-Possessive
-Touch him and die
Brawling Hearts is the second MM romance by Katie that I’ve read, and I loved it just as much as the first in the series. I’m so glad that I read this series because I trusted Katie’s writing, and it had great chemistry between strong characters. Each couple is beautifully written, and I love how much they care for and understand each other so deeply. I enjoyed that this book is part of the same series, but not part of the original friend group. It does take place in Pine Valley, just like the past books in the series, but we meet two new characters that we haven’t met before, Zia and Nikko.
Zia Xander is the most powerful boss in town. When we first meet him, we see that he has been in a relationship with his fiancée, Faiz, for a long time. Faiz however, keeps cheating on him and Zia is finally done. He is sick of loving him and feeling used, so Zia leaves the party and that’s when he meets Nikko. Nikko West is a boxer who is going for the championship title, but happens to run into Zia on the side of the road during a storm. Nikko falls hard for him the moment he sees him, but Zia has his walls up after all that he went through with his ex-fiancée. There is definitely attraction between them, but Zia isn’t ready.
The chemistry between Zia and Nikko was done so well. I loved how supportive they both are for each other and how Nikko wasn’t going to give up just because Zia wasn’t ready. I loved the possessiveness between them and how that helped them realize that they loved each other. The ending of the book, I didn’t see that coming and it made me cry, but also happy. It was mixed feelings. I hope there will be more books in this series with Zia’s friends.
I think my favorite part of the book was how supportive both fathers were to their son throughout the whole book. I feel I always read about how fathers are such assholes. It was so sweet to see them being understanding and supportive in both their son’s life choices, but also for the one they chose to love.
Thank you so much for the chance to read this arc!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Katie started the Pine Valley College series with a bang with Racing Hearts, and every book since has only strengthened my love for this world. Each couple has stolen my heart in a different way, and Nikko and Zia are no exception!
Brawling Hearts feels slightly separate from the earlier books, as Nikko and Zia aren’t part of the original close knit group, and I loved that. Expanding the Pine Valley area made the world feel even bigger and better. And those little glimpses of our favourite characters from previous books? Chef’s freaking kiss.👩🏻🍳🤌🏻
Zia is such a beautifully written character with so much depth. He’s carrying the weight of a past relationship that hurt him so deeply he never believed he could love again. Enter Nikko, the strong, steady presence Zia never knew he needed. Nikko doesn’t just tear down Zia’s walls, he proves that with the right person, love is worth the risk. That vulnerability becomes strength, and together they’re unstoppable against anyone who tries to hurt them. And trust me, there’s plenty out there lining up, waiting for the chance to take down the powerhouse that is Zia Xander.
Brawling Hearts is a fantastic story about love, healing, and taking the leap even when you’re terrified of falling. This isn’t your typical romance, though. One MMC is one of the four rulers of the city, a mafia king, while the other is a boxer on the brink of becoming a champion. If that doesn’t scream one hell of a power couple, I don’t know what does. Add in mafia violence, looming threats, and the mystery of who is targeting Zia, alongside jealousy and possessiveness, with steamy moments that will make you blush, Brawling Hearts makes for a great read. You’ll struggle to put it down.
If you enjoy the following tropes, I highly recommend Brawling Hearts:
- strangers to lovers
- MM romance
- second chance
- touch him and die
- criminal x boxer
- golden retriever / black cat
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Brawling Hearts feels slightly separate from the earlier books, as Nikko and Zia aren’t part of the original close knit group, and I loved that. Expanding the Pine Valley area made the world feel even bigger and better. And those little glimpses of our favourite characters from previous books? Chef’s freaking kiss.👩🏻🍳🤌🏻
Zia is such a beautifully written character with so much depth. He’s carrying the weight of a past relationship that hurt him so deeply he never believed he could love again. Enter Nikko, the strong, steady presence Zia never knew he needed. Nikko doesn’t just tear down Zia’s walls, he proves that with the right person, love is worth the risk. That vulnerability becomes strength, and together they’re unstoppable against anyone who tries to hurt them. And trust me, there’s plenty out there lining up, waiting for the chance to take down the powerhouse that is Zia Xander.
Brawling Hearts is a fantastic story about love, healing, and taking the leap even when you’re terrified of falling. This isn’t your typical romance, though. One MMC is one of the four rulers of the city, a mafia king, while the other is a boxer on the brink of becoming a champion. If that doesn’t scream one hell of a power couple, I don’t know what does. Add in mafia violence, looming threats, and the mystery of who is targeting Zia, alongside jealousy and possessiveness, with steamy moments that will make you blush, Brawling Hearts makes for a great read. You’ll struggle to put it down.
If you enjoy the following tropes, I highly recommend Brawling Hearts:
- strangers to lovers
- MM romance
- second chance
- touch him and die
- criminal x boxer
- golden retriever / black cat
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy
✨ ARC Review✨
Thank you to the author and Wordsmith Publicity for a chance to read this ARC.
Zia & Nikko's story is everything I love about a book by KA Knight 💜. It's dark, it's gritty, it's hot and it's romance is so sweet, even in its over the top possessive way.... But I'm a sucker for that 🫣🫶😏.
I honestly adore both of these characters so much. They have so many layers and are so realistic when it comes to being human. Nikko is such a misunderstood cinnamon roll. He's socially awkward and feels like he says the wrong things (which I can relate to) but really he just needed Zia to open his eyes and realize that he had people who loved and cared for him all along.
Zia is such an interesting character! He's soft and it's taken for a weakness when really he's the baddest B in town 😈. He's sassy, and confident, yet broken and shy to let his heart open and love again... When really he didn't stand a chance against Nikko, especially when Nikko makes up his mind and decides Zia is the one 🥹.
The tension between these two could set your heart on fire, and I was here for every. Single. Second. 🥵 I loved how they ebbed and flowed around one another, when Nikko was weak Zia was there, when Zia was scared and trying to push Nikko away, Nikko was rock solid. It was beautiful 😍 and that ending? Blew me away, I honestly didn't see it coming and my heart was breaking and mending all at once! Plus it was so nice to read a book where the fathers were SO supportive of their children, no matter their choices 💜.
I certainly hope that the others from Zia's group get their stories as well because I am invested in them 🔥😘. Definitely don't sleep on this book when it comes out!
Thank you to the author and Wordsmith Publicity for a chance to read this ARC.
Zia & Nikko's story is everything I love about a book by KA Knight 💜. It's dark, it's gritty, it's hot and it's romance is so sweet, even in its over the top possessive way.... But I'm a sucker for that 🫣🫶😏.
I honestly adore both of these characters so much. They have so many layers and are so realistic when it comes to being human. Nikko is such a misunderstood cinnamon roll. He's socially awkward and feels like he says the wrong things (which I can relate to) but really he just needed Zia to open his eyes and realize that he had people who loved and cared for him all along.
Zia is such an interesting character! He's soft and it's taken for a weakness when really he's the baddest B in town 😈. He's sassy, and confident, yet broken and shy to let his heart open and love again... When really he didn't stand a chance against Nikko, especially when Nikko makes up his mind and decides Zia is the one 🥹.
The tension between these two could set your heart on fire, and I was here for every. Single. Second. 🥵 I loved how they ebbed and flowed around one another, when Nikko was weak Zia was there, when Zia was scared and trying to push Nikko away, Nikko was rock solid. It was beautiful 😍 and that ending? Blew me away, I honestly didn't see it coming and my heart was breaking and mending all at once! Plus it was so nice to read a book where the fathers were SO supportive of their children, no matter their choices 💜.
I certainly hope that the others from Zia's group get their stories as well because I am invested in them 🔥😘. Definitely don't sleep on this book when it comes out!
February 1, 2026
🔪Brawling Hearts🔪❤️🔥
✍🏼: @katieknightauthor
(ARC)
📍Ratings
5⭐️
3.5🌶️
2🖤
📍ARC Review
Hello, hello, my girly girls💗
New day, new review.
I can assure you that this book has been my top read of the month. If there's one thing I couldn't stop doing while reading, it was wiping that little smile off my face. This book’s pacing was fast and simply addictive. It's the kind of book that grabs you and never lets go.
I've never felt so in love with characters before. The range of emotions these MMCs made me feel was truly dazzling. The desire for self-improvement in both characters, their emotional growth, especially Zia's, and above all, the way they love so deeply and passionately.
If this book has taught me anything, it's that self-love is very important, learning to value yourself as a person, knowing when there are certain cycles that need to be broken so that we as people can move forward toward new opportunities in our lives. That sometimes we can meet the love of our life in the least expected place, as the saying goes “the right person at the wrong time,” but that's how destiny works.
Like all books by this author, I didn’t want to let it go. I have completely fallen in love with the characters, their personalities, their desire to love and be loved, and, well, honestly, I can't ignore the fact that the spice was incredible. 👀🤭
📍Do I recommend it?
Bestie, my question right now is: why don't you already have this book?! This is a must-read!
If you're looking for an MM romance with a touch of dark romance, characters capable of feeling deep emotions and letting those they love see their vulnerable side, this is the book for you!
So don't forget to run, and grab your copy of “Brawling Hearts,” and when you have it, come back and tell me.
What was your last 5-star read?
✍🏼: @katieknightauthor
(ARC)
📍Ratings
5⭐️
3.5🌶️
2🖤
📍ARC Review
Hello, hello, my girly girls💗
New day, new review.
I can assure you that this book has been my top read of the month. If there's one thing I couldn't stop doing while reading, it was wiping that little smile off my face. This book’s pacing was fast and simply addictive. It's the kind of book that grabs you and never lets go.
I've never felt so in love with characters before. The range of emotions these MMCs made me feel was truly dazzling. The desire for self-improvement in both characters, their emotional growth, especially Zia's, and above all, the way they love so deeply and passionately.
If this book has taught me anything, it's that self-love is very important, learning to value yourself as a person, knowing when there are certain cycles that need to be broken so that we as people can move forward toward new opportunities in our lives. That sometimes we can meet the love of our life in the least expected place, as the saying goes “the right person at the wrong time,” but that's how destiny works.
Like all books by this author, I didn’t want to let it go. I have completely fallen in love with the characters, their personalities, their desire to love and be loved, and, well, honestly, I can't ignore the fact that the spice was incredible. 👀🤭
📍Do I recommend it?
Bestie, my question right now is: why don't you already have this book?! This is a must-read!
If you're looking for an MM romance with a touch of dark romance, characters capable of feeling deep emotions and letting those they love see their vulnerable side, this is the book for you!
So don't forget to run, and grab your copy of “Brawling Hearts,” and when you have it, come back and tell me.
What was your last 5-star read?
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love this world so much and I don't know who my favourite couple is amymore, they are all so wonderful.
Our mmc's are Nikko and Zia or X. Nikko is a boxer. Nikko is really kind, sweet, caring and possessive and just is a really amazing guy. He has only really cared about boxing and winning the championship but things change. Zia, is a "businessman", extremely intelligent, also super sweet in his own way, kind of unhinged and so beautiful. These men are from completely different worlds but they were made for eachother.
The plot sucked me in from page 1. Nikko and Zia met at a rough time in Zia's life and Nikko helps him when he is stuck. From that point on Nikko knew he that he had to have Zia in his life but he didn't know how to keep him as such. Zia had a lot of walls up after his heartbreak but Nikko is very stubborn and I think he was already half in love with him after initially meeting him that first night. It took Zia a little longer to finally let Nikko in but after a series of very dangerous events and near you know what's Zia couldn't help it and claimed Nikko as his. Zia and Nikko get their happily ever after but they go through so much to get there so be prepared...
Such a great story, loved it!
Thank you so much Katie and Courtney for the opportunity to read this story and to be a part of your ARC team. I am extremely grateful 🙏
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 🌶🌶🌶🌶
🥊dual pov
🥊strangers to lovers
🥊second chance
🥊criminal x boxer
🥊 touch him and ☠️
🥊 black cat/ golden retriever vibes
🥊 spicy
Our mmc's are Nikko and Zia or X. Nikko is a boxer. Nikko is really kind, sweet, caring and possessive and just is a really amazing guy. He has only really cared about boxing and winning the championship but things change. Zia, is a "businessman", extremely intelligent, also super sweet in his own way, kind of unhinged and so beautiful. These men are from completely different worlds but they were made for eachother.
The plot sucked me in from page 1. Nikko and Zia met at a rough time in Zia's life and Nikko helps him when he is stuck. From that point on Nikko knew he that he had to have Zia in his life but he didn't know how to keep him as such. Zia had a lot of walls up after his heartbreak but Nikko is very stubborn and I think he was already half in love with him after initially meeting him that first night. It took Zia a little longer to finally let Nikko in but after a series of very dangerous events and near you know what's Zia couldn't help it and claimed Nikko as his. Zia and Nikko get their happily ever after but they go through so much to get there so be prepared...
Such a great story, loved it!
Thank you so much Katie and Courtney for the opportunity to read this story and to be a part of your ARC team. I am extremely grateful 🙏
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 🌶🌶🌶🌶
🥊dual pov
🥊strangers to lovers
🥊second chance
🥊criminal x boxer
🥊 touch him and ☠️
🥊 black cat/ golden retriever vibes
🥊 spicy
January 30, 2026
If K.A. Knight writes it, I’m going to read it! Every single book that I have read by Katie has captivated me. Each book has me in a chokehold from the very beginning to the very end. AND Brawling Hearts had me locked in.
We all know the saying, right person, wrong time. That’s exactly the case between Zia and Nikko. After being betrayed, Zia leaves and finds himself in the middle of a storm. Luckily, Nikko is there to help. The next day, Zia leaves, but both of them can’t stop thinking about one another, and Zia swears he’ll never see him again. But Nikko won’t stop until Zia is his.
Zia went through the heartbreak but now he knows he won’t make that mistake again. His character was so much fun. He was so sassy, loyal, and smart. He was ruthless when he needed to be but also empathetic. I loved Zia's unapologetic behavior. He knows exactly who he is!
Nikko has one goal in his life and that’s to become a champion boxer. Until he meets Zia. Nikko is obsessed and he won’t stop until Zia is his. Nikko is so sweet, so caring, and so protective. He honestly had me swooning because we all need someone to bring that same energy to us.
This story had me hooked. I couldn’t stop reading and I didn’t want to stop reading. This plot had me invested. The characters had me invested. The emotions had me invested. I just seriously loved this book and I loved the connection between these characters. Both of these characters were total opposites but they worked so amazingly together. This story was just so beautiful and all I can say is, you need to check it out!
We all know the saying, right person, wrong time. That’s exactly the case between Zia and Nikko. After being betrayed, Zia leaves and finds himself in the middle of a storm. Luckily, Nikko is there to help. The next day, Zia leaves, but both of them can’t stop thinking about one another, and Zia swears he’ll never see him again. But Nikko won’t stop until Zia is his.
Zia went through the heartbreak but now he knows he won’t make that mistake again. His character was so much fun. He was so sassy, loyal, and smart. He was ruthless when he needed to be but also empathetic. I loved Zia's unapologetic behavior. He knows exactly who he is!
Nikko has one goal in his life and that’s to become a champion boxer. Until he meets Zia. Nikko is obsessed and he won’t stop until Zia is his. Nikko is so sweet, so caring, and so protective. He honestly had me swooning because we all need someone to bring that same energy to us.
This story had me hooked. I couldn’t stop reading and I didn’t want to stop reading. This plot had me invested. The characters had me invested. The emotions had me invested. I just seriously loved this book and I loved the connection between these characters. Both of these characters were total opposites but they worked so amazingly together. This story was just so beautiful and all I can say is, you need to check it out!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Gangsters & Gloves 🔫🥊
I'm always excited when I pick up a KA book, as I never know what kind of characters I'll get, whether they're downright insane, absolutely adorable or something in between. On this occasion, Nikko and Zia are two sides of the same coin, and both are equally as deadly as they are adorable. 🥹
A lot was going on in this story and the misdirection by KA was a splendid touch. We got action, comedy and a whole lot of spice while riding the chaos wave to the HEA.
Unfortunately, I did feel that the story dragged a little here and there; it probably could've been 5 or so chapters shorter. And for the love of God, more prep in the future, please. Honestly, I worried for Zia'sa$$hole...at least spit on it first! 🙈
I'm excited to see what comes next after the little teasers and Easter eggs KA left lying around, I will be along for the ride for as long as the series lasts.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
Pick up this book if you enjoy:
🥊 MM Romance
🥊Strangers to Lovers
🥊Touch Him & ☠️
🥊Criminal x Boxer
🥊Golden Retriever x Black Cat
🥊Neurodivergent Rep
I'm always excited when I pick up a KA book, as I never know what kind of characters I'll get, whether they're downright insane, absolutely adorable or something in between. On this occasion, Nikko and Zia are two sides of the same coin, and both are equally as deadly as they are adorable. 🥹
A lot was going on in this story and the misdirection by KA was a splendid touch. We got action, comedy and a whole lot of spice while riding the chaos wave to the HEA.
Unfortunately, I did feel that the story dragged a little here and there; it probably could've been 5 or so chapters shorter. And for the love of God, more prep in the future, please. Honestly, I worried for Zia's
I'm excited to see what comes next after the little teasers and Easter eggs KA left lying around, I will be along for the ride for as long as the series lasts.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
Pick up this book if you enjoy:
🥊 MM Romance
🥊Strangers to Lovers
🥊Touch Him & ☠️
🥊Criminal x Boxer
🥊Golden Retriever x Black Cat
🥊Neurodivergent Rep
Sometimes you meet someone you feel a strong connection with, and you just know it would be amazing, but if the saying “right person, wrong place” were real, then I would say it applied here.
January 30, 2026
𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘢𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘮𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘥𝘪𝘥𝘯’𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘶𝘳𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨.
| 𝗕𝗿𝗮𝘄𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀 |
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Pine Valley series is slowly becoming a favorite of mine by K.A. Knight! If you are a fan of MM or FF romances, these are for you! Especially if you like darker romance reads.
Brawling Hearts is a MM romance between a boxer and a criminal. They enter each other’s lives as strangers and fall hard for one another. With a healthy blend of “touch him and 💀” as well as, second chance romance. Golden retriever who doesn’t need much meets black cat who has it all. I ATE IT UPPPPP 🤭
Nikko never gave attention to anything, or anyone, outside of boxing. It was his whole life till he met Zia. Zia Xander is respected by many and feared by all. As one of the four most powerful men in the city, he is used to getting what he wants. And when he sets his eyes on Nikko, he didn’t expect him to not want to let him go when he leaves.
I absolutely ADORED these two and their dynamic. The growth and healing that Zia goes through, the strength and comfort that Nikko provides. Just UGGHHHHHH 😩 I love it so much!!!!
#brawlinghearts #darkromance #MMromance #kaknight #pinevalley #possessiveMMC #goldenretrieverandblackcat #newrelease
| 𝗕𝗿𝗮𝘄𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀 |
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Pine Valley series is slowly becoming a favorite of mine by K.A. Knight! If you are a fan of MM or FF romances, these are for you! Especially if you like darker romance reads.
Brawling Hearts is a MM romance between a boxer and a criminal. They enter each other’s lives as strangers and fall hard for one another. With a healthy blend of “touch him and 💀” as well as, second chance romance. Golden retriever who doesn’t need much meets black cat who has it all. I ATE IT UPPPPP 🤭
Nikko never gave attention to anything, or anyone, outside of boxing. It was his whole life till he met Zia. Zia Xander is respected by many and feared by all. As one of the four most powerful men in the city, he is used to getting what he wants. And when he sets his eyes on Nikko, he didn’t expect him to not want to let him go when he leaves.
I absolutely ADORED these two and their dynamic. The growth and healing that Zia goes through, the strength and comfort that Nikko provides. Just UGGHHHHHH 😩 I love it so much!!!!
#brawlinghearts #darkromance #MMromance #kaknight #pinevalley #possessiveMMC #goldenretrieverandblackcat #newrelease
Review of advance copy received from Author
⋆ ʙʀᴀᴡʟɪɴɢ ʜᴇᴀʀᴛꜱ | @katieknightauthor
✨arc review✨
ʀᴀᴛɪɴɢ: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Tropes- Strangers to Lovers, Second Chance, Boxer x Criminal, Touch Him & Die, Golden Retriever/ Black Cat, MM Romance
—
Oh how I devoured this book like it was no tomorrow! I was waiting for these two after the epilogue in the last book and this did not disappoint. Zia & Nikko relationship had me foaming at the mouth. I love them so much.
Zia is one of the Four Sons in the streets of Pine Valley. He’s rich and hot!? What more can you ask for loll. I love him he does the world and I’m so glad that he and Nikko found each other. After years of being cheated on and embarrassed Zia finally has had enough and he wants to leave his ex boyfriend and find happiness
Zia and Nikko met while Zia car broke down in the rain and Nikko helps him out and invite him into his place to get dry and call somebody and they end up talking for hours and getting to know each other. These two means so much to me like ughh I just couldn’t get enough this book was just amazing
Nikko is a boxer it’s in his blood and all he knows. The way I would do anything for Nikko is insane I just love him so much. He’s amazing and just so down bad for Zia I loved seeing it like that’s literally his man and I loved how him and Zia dad just became best-friends it was awesome
The chemistry, banter, and push and pull with these two was insane. Plus the plot!? I was on the edge of my seat every time something was happening. Watching these two open up and be together was amazing the love they have for each other!? Like give me 5 more books RIGHT NOW.
Thank You For giving me this arc!
✨arc review✨
ʀᴀᴛɪɴɢ: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Tropes- Strangers to Lovers, Second Chance, Boxer x Criminal, Touch Him & Die, Golden Retriever/ Black Cat, MM Romance
—
Oh how I devoured this book like it was no tomorrow! I was waiting for these two after the epilogue in the last book and this did not disappoint. Zia & Nikko relationship had me foaming at the mouth. I love them so much.
Zia is one of the Four Sons in the streets of Pine Valley. He’s rich and hot!? What more can you ask for loll. I love him he does the world and I’m so glad that he and Nikko found each other. After years of being cheated on and embarrassed Zia finally has had enough and he wants to leave his ex boyfriend and find happiness
Zia and Nikko met while Zia car broke down in the rain and Nikko helps him out and invite him into his place to get dry and call somebody and they end up talking for hours and getting to know each other. These two means so much to me like ughh I just couldn’t get enough this book was just amazing
Nikko is a boxer it’s in his blood and all he knows. The way I would do anything for Nikko is insane I just love him so much. He’s amazing and just so down bad for Zia I loved seeing it like that’s literally his man and I loved how him and Zia dad just became best-friends it was awesome
The chemistry, banter, and push and pull with these two was insane. Plus the plot!? I was on the edge of my seat every time something was happening. Watching these two open up and be together was amazing the love they have for each other!? Like give me 5 more books RIGHT NOW.
Thank You For giving me this arc!
January 30, 2026
This was an action packed, spice filled, entertaining romance. I had fun with Zia and Nikko. From their first meeting to figuring out how their lives can work around/with each other. Brawling Hearts has mafia power struggles, assassins, fighting, boxing, some light kidnapping and a whole lot of spice! When we meet Zia, who comes from one of the most influential mafia families in Pine Valley, he is being cheated on for the zillionth time by his long time boyfriend. He finally decides he deserves more and leaves the club they were partying at. His car breaks down and that is when he meets Nikko. Nikko is a boxer, training with his dad to become world champion. Nikko gives Zia a place to stay overnight until he can call a ride in the morning. They don't see each other again for months, but when they do sparks are a flying. Unfortunately for Nikko, Zia is worried about getting hurt again and says they can have fun, but no love. Nikko is such a sweet man. It was entertaining to see their romance blossom, as well as all the outside drama unfold. It was fun to see a little cameo of Lolly and Alice from, Bleeding Hearts, as well!
Read
January 30, 2026DNF (26%)
I have really enjoyed the previous books in the Pine Valley College series, but this 4th book just wasn’t for me.
In the previous books in this series I’ve loved how they have focused on the Pine Valley college and different characters of the same friend group, but this book completely deviates from that. I know Nikko was mentioned in the epilogue of book 3, but Zia might be a completely new character. Of course expanding the series with new characters is all fine, but if you’re throwing in completely new characters in the middle of a series, I wish they would be introduced a bit better.
I ended up DNF’ing after 102 pages because I had no idea who these characters were and what was their connection to the Pine Valley college. In those 102 pages, I don’t think Pine Valley college was mentioned once and the events didn’t take place in there (I guess they go there later in the book, but I wasn’t invested enough in the storyline to continue reading)
I’m not saying this was a bad book, this just wasn’t for me.
Thank you author K.A. Knight for the eARC. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
I have really enjoyed the previous books in the Pine Valley College series, but this 4th book just wasn’t for me.
In the previous books in this series I’ve loved how they have focused on the Pine Valley college and different characters of the same friend group, but this book completely deviates from that. I know Nikko was mentioned in the epilogue of book 3, but Zia might be a completely new character. Of course expanding the series with new characters is all fine, but if you’re throwing in completely new characters in the middle of a series, I wish they would be introduced a bit better.
I ended up DNF’ing after 102 pages because I had no idea who these characters were and what was their connection to the Pine Valley college. In those 102 pages, I don’t think Pine Valley college was mentioned once and the events didn’t take place in there (I guess they go there later in the book, but I wasn’t invested enough in the storyline to continue reading)
I’m not saying this was a bad book, this just wasn’t for me.
Thank you author K.A. Knight for the eARC. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
January 31, 2026
Another Knockout
This series has been one of my absolute favorites from Katie, and I devour every book the moment a new one drops. This time, we get the pleasure of meeting Nikko and Zia, and they are simply adorable.
Nikko is a big, badass boxer who turns into a complete marshmallow when it comes to Zia, and I loved every second of it. Katie is truly the queen of creating unforgettable characters, and Zia is a prime example. I don’t want to say too much and ruin him, because I loved his character so much and I want everyone else to have that same “ooooh” moment I did.
I think most of us have been in Zia’s place at some point in our love lives, and we have all wished for a Nikko. For once, Katie made me cry not because she was ripping my heart out, but because some of their scenes were so beautiful. The love and adoration Nikko has for Zia came pouring off the pages, and I couldn’t help but get choked up.
A solid 10 out of 10. I cannot wait for the next book in this series!
This series has been one of my absolute favorites from Katie, and I devour every book the moment a new one drops. This time, we get the pleasure of meeting Nikko and Zia, and they are simply adorable.
Nikko is a big, badass boxer who turns into a complete marshmallow when it comes to Zia, and I loved every second of it. Katie is truly the queen of creating unforgettable characters, and Zia is a prime example. I don’t want to say too much and ruin him, because I loved his character so much and I want everyone else to have that same “ooooh” moment I did.
I think most of us have been in Zia’s place at some point in our love lives, and we have all wished for a Nikko. For once, Katie made me cry not because she was ripping my heart out, but because some of their scenes were so beautiful. The love and adoration Nikko has for Zia came pouring off the pages, and I couldn’t help but get choked up.
A solid 10 out of 10. I cannot wait for the next book in this series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5⭐️3🌶️
I think by now we can all say we want to move to Pine Valley. There’s just something in the water! Zia & Nikko are such a beautiful couple that complement each other perfectly. Zia is struggling with stuff from his past relationship not thinking he can ever love again and Nikko is everything he could love buts to scared to take the chance so he keeps him at a distance and often runs away. As always I love the side characters and tried to find clues for maybe the next book but was at a loss this time! The dads!! I cannot stress this enough usually the dads are assholes but these two gosh I loved them so so much!! To see two men support their sons not only in their choice of who they love but just so deeply in life is so refreshing.
As always this is a series of standalone in an interconnected series there is mention of characters from previous books but you won’t miss anything if you haven’t read them but i recommend you do simply because 😄
I think by now we can all say we want to move to Pine Valley. There’s just something in the water! Zia & Nikko are such a beautiful couple that complement each other perfectly. Zia is struggling with stuff from his past relationship not thinking he can ever love again and Nikko is everything he could love buts to scared to take the chance so he keeps him at a distance and often runs away. As always I love the side characters and tried to find clues for maybe the next book but was at a loss this time! The dads!! I cannot stress this enough usually the dads are assholes but these two gosh I loved them so so much!! To see two men support their sons not only in their choice of who they love but just so deeply in life is so refreshing.
As always this is a series of standalone in an interconnected series there is mention of characters from previous books but you won’t miss anything if you haven’t read them but i recommend you do simply because 😄
Review of advance copy received from Author
Katie has absolutely smashed it out the park once again 👏 Every time I open one of her books, I fall effortlessly in love with the characters...And this one, I just LOVED everything!
The emotion woven through these pages is phenomenal, it enables you to feel every single emotion. The plot, the twists, the turns… I was on the edge of my seat the entire time 🔥
Nikko & Zia own my heart. Two people you’d never expect to fit, drawn together by a chance meeting and an undeniable emotional connection. Strong on their own, and yet unfrigginstoppable together and the possessiveness... HOT. DAMN. 🥵
The push-and-pull, the fiercely protective energy had me swooning nonstop. And can we talk about the dads because the loyalty, love, and family unity from Zia’s dad and Nikko’s dad just amplified the heart of this story.
Another phenomenal read from one of my all time fabourite authors and I am SO ready for the next installment.
The emotion woven through these pages is phenomenal, it enables you to feel every single emotion. The plot, the twists, the turns… I was on the edge of my seat the entire time 🔥
Nikko & Zia own my heart. Two people you’d never expect to fit, drawn together by a chance meeting and an undeniable emotional connection. Strong on their own, and yet unfrigginstoppable together and the possessiveness... HOT. DAMN. 🥵
The push-and-pull, the fiercely protective energy had me swooning nonstop. And can we talk about the dads because the loyalty, love, and family unity from Zia’s dad and Nikko’s dad just amplified the heart of this story.
Another phenomenal read from one of my all time fabourite authors and I am SO ready for the next installment.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: 4/5 🌟
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Characters: Zia and Nikko
I'm really enjoying this series. Every book has been a hit for me.
This one is a little different than the others, being set outside of the original group.
Nikko is such a loveable character, sweet, determined, and set on breaking down Zia's walls. He's also an MMA boxer working toward becoming a champion.
Zia is extremely guarded and has a lot of walls up from his last relationship. He's also a very powerful man and lives in a dangerous world.
I loved how much push and pull there was between these two. Nikko was set on getting Zia to lower his walls and realize that not everyone was out to hurt him and love isn't a weakness or bad thing. I absolutely loved watching Zia lower those walls for him.
This is an emotional read and they go through it to get to their HEA. The ride to get there is full of action, sweet moments, steamy moments, and lots of emotion.
Another absolutely wonderful addition in this series!
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Characters: Zia and Nikko
I'm really enjoying this series. Every book has been a hit for me.
This one is a little different than the others, being set outside of the original group.
Nikko is such a loveable character, sweet, determined, and set on breaking down Zia's walls. He's also an MMA boxer working toward becoming a champion.
Zia is extremely guarded and has a lot of walls up from his last relationship. He's also a very powerful man and lives in a dangerous world.
I loved how much push and pull there was between these two. Nikko was set on getting Zia to lower his walls and realize that not everyone was out to hurt him and love isn't a weakness or bad thing. I absolutely loved watching Zia lower those walls for him.
This is an emotional read and they go through it to get to their HEA. The ride to get there is full of action, sweet moments, steamy moments, and lots of emotion.
Another absolutely wonderful addition in this series!
January 25, 2026
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️‼️‼️
WOW!! Zia and Nikko will now live forever in my head! I LOVED them and their story. This is a can’t put it down until you know kind of book. So many amazing scenes I could rave on and on!!
KA gives us another banger of a read and I loved it!!
Zia is bored and unsettled sick of loving and feeling used by his fiancé. One more time catching him cheating and he is done. But it’s takes a random encounter with Nikko for him to realize he is worth more and he is strong enough to break free from the cycle he has been on.
Zia expected his meeting with Nikko to be a one time thing but whne a chance encounter puts them in each other’s paths again Nikko refuses to let go again. He is willing to wait and help Zia heal his heart. It’s a beautiful raw and emotional story!!!
#brawlinghearts #kaknightauthor #risareads221reviews
WOW!! Zia and Nikko will now live forever in my head! I LOVED them and their story. This is a can’t put it down until you know kind of book. So many amazing scenes I could rave on and on!!
KA gives us another banger of a read and I loved it!!
Zia is bored and unsettled sick of loving and feeling used by his fiancé. One more time catching him cheating and he is done. But it’s takes a random encounter with Nikko for him to realize he is worth more and he is strong enough to break free from the cycle he has been on.
Zia expected his meeting with Nikko to be a one time thing but whne a chance encounter puts them in each other’s paths again Nikko refuses to let go again. He is willing to wait and help Zia heal his heart. It’s a beautiful raw and emotional story!!!
#brawlinghearts #kaknightauthor #risareads221reviews
January 31, 2026
”Do you like putting me in my place? Do you like knowing I want you so fucking much I can’t think straight, and that I want you in a way I’ve never wanted anyone else?”
I loved this continuation of the Pine Valley series from Katie! This one is a little different as it doesn’t take place primarily on the college campus. Instead it is some additional characters from the same city, and we get some cameos of our college bunch throughout the story. Nikko and Zia stole my heart from the very beginning. I love the vibe of the magia Prince and the tough boxer boy and how they try to navigate the dynamic of the relationship being from very different worlds. Katie did a great neurodivergent representation with Nikko and it was really great to see how Zia works to bring him out of his shell and gained some confidence outside of the boxing ring. Zia himself has a lot of baggage from a previous relationship and he’s really not ready to commit despite the fact that he is obviously head over heels for Nikko. There is lots of tension, steam, and action in this MM romance and I definitely think you’re gonna love the characters!!!
I loved this continuation of the Pine Valley series from Katie! This one is a little different as it doesn’t take place primarily on the college campus. Instead it is some additional characters from the same city, and we get some cameos of our college bunch throughout the story. Nikko and Zia stole my heart from the very beginning. I love the vibe of the magia Prince and the tough boxer boy and how they try to navigate the dynamic of the relationship being from very different worlds. Katie did a great neurodivergent representation with Nikko and it was really great to see how Zia works to bring him out of his shell and gained some confidence outside of the boxing ring. Zia himself has a lot of baggage from a previous relationship and he’s really not ready to commit despite the fact that he is obviously head over heels for Nikko. There is lots of tension, steam, and action in this MM romance and I definitely think you’re gonna love the characters!!!
January 30, 2026
~Arc Review~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶.5
~Brawling Hearts~Pine Valley College Book 4~K.A. Knight~
“I would rather die at your side than live another moment without you. You’re so used to nobody coming to save you that you think you have to save yourself, but you’re wrong. I will always come for you.”
♡Katie just keeps giving with this series! I ate this book up and left no crumbs. This book follows Zia & Nikko two men that could not be more opposite. The push & pull tension between these two had me at the edge of my seat with my jaw so tight you could probably hear my teeth crack!
This story is the definition of don't judge a book by it's cover because everything isn't always as it seems.
Also leave it up to Katie to make me absolutely loathe a character then turn around & cry like a baby on the emotional roller-coaster she took me on!♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶.5
~Brawling Hearts~Pine Valley College Book 4~K.A. Knight~
“I would rather die at your side than live another moment without you. You’re so used to nobody coming to save you that you think you have to save yourself, but you’re wrong. I will always come for you.”
♡Katie just keeps giving with this series! I ate this book up and left no crumbs. This book follows Zia & Nikko two men that could not be more opposite. The push & pull tension between these two had me at the edge of my seat with my jaw so tight you could probably hear my teeth crack!
This story is the definition of don't judge a book by it's cover because everything isn't always as it seems.
Also leave it up to Katie to make me absolutely loathe a character then turn around & cry like a baby on the emotional roller-coaster she took me on!♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a fantastic story, i loved the love and loyalty between Nikko and Zia it is what made this book for me. i wasn't keen on Zia's character but it didn't take away from the read. I did however love Nikko, his unconditional love was inspiring and his personality, so freaking cute!
These two had a rollercoaster of a relationship but the banter, the spice and chemistry just jumped of the pages, its one you can't put down!!! And that 1 chapter ruined me you know when you know and jezz i ugly cried, i felt for Zia in that moment, the emotion flowed from the book, you can feel it.
“Thank you for caring about me enough to do that for me. It’s sweet. Absolutely psychotic, but sweet as hell.”
These two had a rollercoaster of a relationship but the banter, the spice and chemistry just jumped of the pages, its one you can't put down!!! And that 1 chapter ruined me you know when you know and jezz i ugly cried, i felt for Zia in that moment, the emotion flowed from the book, you can feel it.
“Thank you for caring about me enough to do that for me. It’s sweet. Absolutely psychotic, but sweet as hell.”
Review of advance copy
Congratulation sir, you have found someone as batsh!t as you
This book… healed something in me I swear
I loveddd every second of it, I wish it was longer.. this book is dark, vulnerable, sexy !!
Zia (sexy mafia prince) a very complex character with a lot of layers and of course the perfect face he portraits to the outside world, Nikko (sexy boxer) he’s just as straightforward as they come hahahah his boldness just the perfect complement for someone like Zia, it was funny how they became suuuper possessive specially Nikko that was very hot
The dark and the light, that plot twist man I really really thought it was someone else and well…damn
And of course my fav side character Yuki hahahaha he was freakn bold and hilarious
This book… healed something in me I swear
I loveddd every second of it, I wish it was longer.. this book is dark, vulnerable, sexy !!
Zia (sexy mafia prince) a very complex character with a lot of layers and of course the perfect face he portraits to the outside world, Nikko (sexy boxer) he’s just as straightforward as they come hahahah his boldness just the perfect complement for someone like Zia, it was funny how they became suuuper possessive specially Nikko that was very hot
The dark and the light, that plot twist man I really really thought it was someone else and well…damn
And of course my fav side character Yuki hahahaha he was freakn bold and hilarious
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’ve said it so many times, and I’ll always double , triple down on it, KA write the most amazing beautiful drool worthy books . Zia and Nikko were everything . The way Nikko was just screwed from the start with how he felt for Zia lol although sometimes I wanted to shake Zia and knock his walls down, I relate to him in so many ways, which is prob why I love him so much . His sass, gahhh!! lol even after being through what he went through, you admire how he is . Niko….. well, I want someone like him. The way he loves Zia , not ashamed of it …. And he’s a bad a$$?!? HELLOOOOO , where can I find one? Give me 14 of them … RIGHT NOWW!!! lol no but seriously, this was truly such a good read. I’ll always forever recommend KAs books.
January 30, 2026
*arc review*
4.5/⭐️
3/🌶️
The way I am obsessed with this series and these characters maybe my favorite. Zia and Nikko really were right person wrong time when they met. But the way they keep coming back together?? Obsessed.
One thing about this book is that they always have multiple things going on, it’s not the same thing all book and it just keeps me so focused because it’s more real life.
The love and want was there through out the book but also the hurt. Both men got hurt unfortunately, but the way their relationship kept changing and growing really sucked me in.
Did I cry for a character I didn’t think I would? Yes. The ending kinda wreaked me, but it was needed and I’m glad everything came full circle.
4.5/⭐️
3/🌶️
The way I am obsessed with this series and these characters maybe my favorite. Zia and Nikko really were right person wrong time when they met. But the way they keep coming back together?? Obsessed.
One thing about this book is that they always have multiple things going on, it’s not the same thing all book and it just keeps me so focused because it’s more real life.
The love and want was there through out the book but also the hurt. Both men got hurt unfortunately, but the way their relationship kept changing and growing really sucked me in.
Did I cry for a character I didn’t think I would? Yes. The ending kinda wreaked me, but it was needed and I’m glad everything came full circle.
January 30, 2026
Awh this was just amazing, I have zero bad points to say about this book I enjoyed every page and every word , I was consumed by the world of Nikki and Zia the tension between the two mmc’s yes this is a mm mm romance was epic . There was a scene in the changing room of a shop and it was 🔥 , I love how Katie always has the plot to go with the spice and never has to rely on just having spicy scenes, her writing just speaks for its self every time .
Zia and Nikko are from two very different worlds the shouldn’t want each other but they very much do , from the moment I picked this arc up I was locked in and couldn’t put the book down and the relationship between Zia and Nikko was just everything ,
Zia and Nikko are from two very different worlds the shouldn’t want each other but they very much do , from the moment I picked this arc up I was locked in and couldn’t put the book down and the relationship between Zia and Nikko was just everything ,
Review of advance copy received from Author
I've enjoyed this series from the beginning (minus book 3 but that's my preference not anything to do with the author). They have a way of writing characters and drawing you in. The love that Zia and Nikko had for one another was just chef's kiss. I enjoyed being along for the ride with their story. Zia was a strong willed man who just needed that wake up call he got from Nikko. It was Kismet when his car broke down that night. Their love was brutal and hard, but they made it through and I was glad. I did wanna smack the ex with a 2 by 4 but he made it up in the end. I loved the cameos and I am looking forward to the next one like a certain racer and owner ;).
Review of advance copy received from Author
Nikko, Zia, and Brawling Hearts are addictive right from the very start. Zia is leery of trusting anyone again after leaving his toxic long-term relationship, and Nikko is focused solely on winning a championship title belt when his whole world is changed the night he rescues Zia while out on a run. The way these two fall for each other unconditionally is just beautiful. Their possessiveness, their banter, their acceptance of each other's lives and the people in them is just... everything. Through all of their intense chemistry and the crazy twists, I didn't want to put Nikko and Zia's story down for a second.
"I don't know how someone isn't already in love with this man, but I'm glad they aren't. I'm glad I get to have him, even for a little while."
"I don't know how someone isn't already in love with this man, but I'm glad they aren't. I'm glad I get to have him, even for a little while."
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