What do you think?
Rate this book
The Fighter: An MM Romance
A one-night stand turns into more when both men discover they have a forbidden connection…
Tav
I haven’t told anyone my real name in years. To protect my sister, I fight in brutal illegal matches run by the city’s top crime lord. With every punch, with each crack of bone, my soul has been carved out until all that remains is a husk—until I meet a fancy suit in a bar who takes me to his home and then takes me apart. Conrad touches me like he knows me, and he makes me remember what it’s like to be something other than empty.
Conrad
As soon as I see the shadowed form in the corner of the bar, I know I have to have him. All it takes is one night with the mysterious man with two-toned eyes before he’s invading my every thought. But Tav is cagey. He has secrets. And although he doesn’t know it yet, I’m going to discover every single one, and then I’m going to make him mine.
Tav says his life isn’t his own, but I’m not giving up. I have secrets too, and I’ll use all of them to make this city pay for every spilled drop of Tav’s blood.
This is a 100k-word high-heat MM romance between a morally gray obsessive CEO with a dominant streak, and a broken fighter who just wants to be good.
Tropes you’ll
*Millionaire x Fighter
*Black Cat/Golden Retriever
*One Night Stand into More
*D/s elements
*Bondage
*Violence (not between the MCs)
*Hurt/Comfort
*No non-con or dub-con
*”I’ll burn the world for you.”
*A very happy ending
While the romance itself is not as dark as many in this genre, there are some dark themes in The Fighter that readers should be aware of. For a full list of triggers and story elements, check the author’s note at the beginning of the book (which can be accessed through the sample).
Tav
I haven’t told anyone my real name in years. To protect my sister, I fight in brutal illegal matches run by the city’s top crime lord. With every punch, with each crack of bone, my soul has been carved out until all that remains is a husk—until I meet a fancy suit in a bar who takes me to his home and then takes me apart. Conrad touches me like he knows me, and he makes me remember what it’s like to be something other than empty.
Conrad
As soon as I see the shadowed form in the corner of the bar, I know I have to have him. All it takes is one night with the mysterious man with two-toned eyes before he’s invading my every thought. But Tav is cagey. He has secrets. And although he doesn’t know it yet, I’m going to discover every single one, and then I’m going to make him mine.
Tav says his life isn’t his own, but I’m not giving up. I have secrets too, and I’ll use all of them to make this city pay for every spilled drop of Tav’s blood.
This is a 100k-word high-heat MM romance between a morally gray obsessive CEO with a dominant streak, and a broken fighter who just wants to be good.
Tropes you’ll
*Millionaire x Fighter
*Black Cat/Golden Retriever
*One Night Stand into More
*D/s elements
*Bondage
*Violence (not between the MCs)
*Hurt/Comfort
*No non-con or dub-con
*”I’ll burn the world for you.”
*A very happy ending
While the romance itself is not as dark as many in this genre, there are some dark themes in The Fighter that readers should be aware of. For a full list of triggers and story elements, check the author’s note at the beginning of the book (which can be accessed through the sample).
- GenresM M RomanceDarkRomance
355 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 27, 2026
29 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 26, 2026
I went into this book not really knowing what to expect and ended up getting way more invested than I thought I would. Tav and Conrad had such a solid dynamic, there was tension, emotion, and that push and pull that just keeps you hooked. I loved how both of them had their own stuff going on and it actually felt real watching them work through it all instead of everything being magically perfect.
It had a good mix of angst and heart, with just enough softer moments to balance things out. The chemistry between the MC's was great and I found myself rooting for them pretty quickly. Overall, it was a really enjoyable read that pulled me in and kept me there, even if it hit a little heavy at times.
It had a good mix of angst and heart, with just enough softer moments to balance things out. The chemistry between the MC's was great and I found myself rooting for them pretty quickly. Overall, it was a really enjoyable read that pulled me in and kept me there, even if it hit a little heavy at times.
March 16, 2026
3.5 rounded to 4/5 ⭐️
I thought the chemistry between Tav and Conrad was great. It did feel like it was somewhat repetitive in parts which decreased my overall enjoyment a little. However, I would totally read more from this author. Sounds like this is at least getting a second book and the villain is getting a redemption arc. I would also be interested in reading about the side characters Nik and Ben.
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this ARC!
I thought the chemistry between Tav and Conrad was great. It did feel like it was somewhat repetitive in parts which decreased my overall enjoyment a little. However, I would totally read more from this author. Sounds like this is at least getting a second book and the villain is getting a redemption arc. I would also be interested in reading about the side characters Nik and Ben.
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this ARC!
March 17, 2026
4.5 stars! I really enjoyed almost everything about this book. I loved the way Con knew immediately what Tav needed on their first night. Call it insta-whatever, but to me it felt more like intuition, recognition. Their yearning for each other after the one night stand kept me interested until the next time they saw each other, and then the next. They couldn’t stay away from each other and it was very meaningful, knowing what both of their lives were like. The underlying plots with Con and Soto and Tav and his sister were very well done. I only took away a half star because, to me, the whole thing with Devlin and Con at the end was a bit awkward and didn’t really feel right - it was just, I don’t know…weird I guess. I can overlook it though, and I’d definitely recommend this book and look forward to more from this author!
Did not finish
March 14, 2026ARC Review Provided By Author
DNFed at 28%
I really liked the plot of this book. How the story was set up in the book was also fascinating to me. That there were these three childhood best friends that went from trailer park trash to wealthy in New York, yet two of them went to do good while one was seemingly shunned and now is bad. I would have loved to see more of this sooner, hopefully you do get more of that if you read more.
However, what stopped me from reading further was the instant lust with scenes that felt too fast without much resistance. This story would be perfect for those readers who enjoy that. Because it’s done very well. It’s just not what I look for personally.
If you like the sound of the story and like a more insta lust and even a little insta love, this story is perfect for you and I encourage you to read once it’s out on March 27th, 2026 :)
DNFed at 28%
I really liked the plot of this book. How the story was set up in the book was also fascinating to me. That there were these three childhood best friends that went from trailer park trash to wealthy in New York, yet two of them went to do good while one was seemingly shunned and now is bad. I would have loved to see more of this sooner, hopefully you do get more of that if you read more.
However, what stopped me from reading further was the instant lust with scenes that felt too fast without much resistance. This story would be perfect for those readers who enjoy that. Because it’s done very well. It’s just not what I look for personally.
If you like the sound of the story and like a more insta lust and even a little insta love, this story is perfect for you and I encourage you to read once it’s out on March 27th, 2026 :)
March 17, 2026
A very gripping MM Romance!
Wow, just wow! Fighter is an enthralling tale of a billionaire falling for a down on his luck fighter. From the beginning Viv draws you in with captivating writing to help you envision the characterisation of the two MMCs, before hitting you with spice that definitely wants you craving more!
Exceptionally well written. Highly recommended!
Thank you Viv for the honour of being an arc.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Wow, just wow! Fighter is an enthralling tale of a billionaire falling for a down on his luck fighter. From the beginning Viv draws you in with captivating writing to help you envision the characterisation of the two MMCs, before hitting you with spice that definitely wants you craving more!
Exceptionally well written. Highly recommended!
Thank you Viv for the honour of being an arc.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5 ⭐
1st person POV Dual
Plot 3/5
Spice 2.5/5
Underground fighter/ CEO
Hurt / Comfort
BDSM elements
HEA
Tav and Con are drawn to each other from the start! Tav is wrapped up in things he can't see a way out of and has lost so many pieces of himself he's become a shell of a person. After meeting Con he slowly starts remembering who he used to be. Con is so entranced by Tav that he wants to know everything and wants to help him, This causes some tension because Tav is terrified Con will get hurt!
My only slight complaint about this is that the storyline was predictable, I could see how the story was going to play out from the beginning. it was still an okay read and worth the read.
1st person POV Dual
Plot 3/5
Spice 2.5/5
Underground fighter/ CEO
Hurt / Comfort
BDSM elements
HEA
Tav and Con are drawn to each other from the start! Tav is wrapped up in things he can't see a way out of and has lost so many pieces of himself he's become a shell of a person. After meeting Con he slowly starts remembering who he used to be. Con is so entranced by Tav that he wants to know everything and wants to help him, This causes some tension because Tav is terrified Con will get hurt!
My only slight complaint about this is that the storyline was predictable, I could see how the story was going to play out from the beginning. it was still an okay read and worth the read.
March 27, 2026
💋💙🥊ARC REVIEW 💋💙🥊
HOLD MY TEARS…. THIS BOOK WAS SPICY AF AND AO EMOTIONAL (well to me anyways it was).
5⭐️
“I was done waiting for you to come to me. I was going to go to you.”
“He sees me, He can read me like a book, and he never makes me feel like that’s weak. He makes me feel strong when he sees me.”
“He changed my brain, I think.” “The best love does.”
Those quotes above really stuck to me when reading, the way that con and tav they are so soulmates they were so made for each other, through all their pain their traumas and everything they completed each other in a way that made sense for them, the way they picked each other up when the other was down was so heartwarming and I love them together, the brokenness the raw emotions that was shown throughout of this book was just incredible but so emotional I was sobbing throughout the one liners really got my emotional ass 😭😂.
CONRAD MY MANN JESUS CHRIST OKAYY DADDY BE DOMINANT BUT ALSO SO SUBMISSIVE LIKE DAMNN KING POP OFFF!!!! His character really grew on me like he had so much character development like ahh
Tav ughh my poor baby you just wanted to be seen and just protect ur sister in anyway you could, you needed to find your person and con was your person. Like all tav wanted was to be loved, be cared for, seen. He’s been through so much with his backstory and what he was forced into like ugh my soul breaks for him, the way he presented himself throughout his character also had character development when we first met him when he was silent at the bar when he met con and then by the end how he changed in the presence of con like ahh!!! I just freaking love tav I really fell in love with his character like his love for his sister and his nephew ughh my soul and the way he became so dominant and submissive too like ahhh!! And then the deep talks with con and in general ugh this boook 😭😭😭
I’m so glad I read this when I did this was everything and more it really spoke to my soul; like the emotions that I felt throughout it really made me intrigued into the story and see how when con met tav at the corner of the bar and wanted to f^ck and then it was history after that my Shayla’s were so downbad for each other like it was one hot emotional rollercoaster and I loved every second if it even if I was also screaming into the oblivion.
Thank you Viv Allen for reaching out to me with the arc because this was one phenomenal debut novel you have and I loved reading tav and con’s story and I need more of them 😭😭
HOLD MY TEARS…. THIS BOOK WAS SPICY AF AND AO EMOTIONAL (well to me anyways it was).
5⭐️
“I was done waiting for you to come to me. I was going to go to you.”
“He sees me, He can read me like a book, and he never makes me feel like that’s weak. He makes me feel strong when he sees me.”
“He changed my brain, I think.” “The best love does.”
Those quotes above really stuck to me when reading, the way that con and tav they are so soulmates they were so made for each other, through all their pain their traumas and everything they completed each other in a way that made sense for them, the way they picked each other up when the other was down was so heartwarming and I love them together, the brokenness the raw emotions that was shown throughout of this book was just incredible but so emotional I was sobbing throughout the one liners really got my emotional ass 😭😂.
CONRAD MY MANN JESUS CHRIST OKAYY DADDY BE DOMINANT BUT ALSO SO SUBMISSIVE LIKE DAMNN KING POP OFFF!!!! His character really grew on me like he had so much character development like ahh
Tav ughh my poor baby you just wanted to be seen and just protect ur sister in anyway you could, you needed to find your person and con was your person. Like all tav wanted was to be loved, be cared for, seen. He’s been through so much with his backstory and what he was forced into like ugh my soul breaks for him, the way he presented himself throughout his character also had character development when we first met him when he was silent at the bar when he met con and then by the end how he changed in the presence of con like ahh!!! I just freaking love tav I really fell in love with his character like his love for his sister and his nephew ughh my soul and the way he became so dominant and submissive too like ahhh!! And then the deep talks with con and in general ugh this boook 😭😭😭
I’m so glad I read this when I did this was everything and more it really spoke to my soul; like the emotions that I felt throughout it really made me intrigued into the story and see how when con met tav at the corner of the bar and wanted to f^ck and then it was history after that my Shayla’s were so downbad for each other like it was one hot emotional rollercoaster and I loved every second if it even if I was also screaming into the oblivion.
Thank you Viv Allen for reaching out to me with the arc because this was one phenomenal debut novel you have and I loved reading tav and con’s story and I need more of them 😭😭
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ARC Review ✨
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
The Fighter by Viv Allen is her debut — and what a story it was. She absolutely nailed it. I couldn’t put it down and finished it in a single day.
The story follows Tav and Conrad. Tav is trapped in a life he never chose, falsely indebted to Devlin — a criminal lord who runs Detroit’s underground. To keep his sister and nephew safe, Tav is forced to fight in illegal rings, known only as Husk. Over time, he’s been worn down into exactly that — a shell of a man, quietly enduring everything thrown at him.
Until he meets Conrad.
Conrad is a self-made millionaire who notices Tav sitting alone in a club owned by his friend Ben. There’s an instant pull between them, and what starts as one night quickly becomes something neither of them can walk away from. Conrad thrives on control, and Tav — despite his strength — is so instinctively submissive that it just fits. Their dynamic is intense, addictive, and so well written.
What I loved most is how Conead sees Tav. He recognises the pain, the quiet suffering, and the need Tav doesn’t even voice — and instead of turning away, he steps in.
When Conrad learns about Devlin and what Tav has been forced into, it becomes personal. He’s determined to tear it all down and set Tav free.
Tav is such a beautifully written character — gentle, soft, but incredibly strong in the way he endures everything for his family. And Conrad? Completely swoon-worthy. Protective, dominant, and unwavering once he decides Tav is his.
The writing balances softness and brutality so well — it’s emotional, gritty, and intense all at once. The spice starts early and is so good 🔥 but it never overshadows the emotional depth of the story.
This book took me through everything — heartbreak, anger, softness, and so much relief by the end. It really felt like being broken apart and slowly put back together.
The side characters — Ben, Nik, Amara, and Holden — added so much warmth and depth to the story.
I can’t wait to read more from Viv Allen.
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
The Fighter by Viv Allen is her debut — and what a story it was. She absolutely nailed it. I couldn’t put it down and finished it in a single day.
The story follows Tav and Conrad. Tav is trapped in a life he never chose, falsely indebted to Devlin — a criminal lord who runs Detroit’s underground. To keep his sister and nephew safe, Tav is forced to fight in illegal rings, known only as Husk. Over time, he’s been worn down into exactly that — a shell of a man, quietly enduring everything thrown at him.
Until he meets Conrad.
Conrad is a self-made millionaire who notices Tav sitting alone in a club owned by his friend Ben. There’s an instant pull between them, and what starts as one night quickly becomes something neither of them can walk away from. Conrad thrives on control, and Tav — despite his strength — is so instinctively submissive that it just fits. Their dynamic is intense, addictive, and so well written.
What I loved most is how Conead sees Tav. He recognises the pain, the quiet suffering, and the need Tav doesn’t even voice — and instead of turning away, he steps in.
When Conrad learns about Devlin and what Tav has been forced into, it becomes personal. He’s determined to tear it all down and set Tav free.
Tav is such a beautifully written character — gentle, soft, but incredibly strong in the way he endures everything for his family. And Conrad? Completely swoon-worthy. Protective, dominant, and unwavering once he decides Tav is his.
The writing balances softness and brutality so well — it’s emotional, gritty, and intense all at once. The spice starts early and is so good 🔥 but it never overshadows the emotional depth of the story.
This book took me through everything — heartbreak, anger, softness, and so much relief by the end. It really felt like being broken apart and slowly put back together.
The side characters — Ben, Nik, Amara, and Holden — added so much warmth and depth to the story.
I can’t wait to read more from Viv Allen.
March 29, 2026
ARC Review - The Fighter by Viv Allen
“What’s your name?”
That was all it took for Conrad Stafford to begin to crack the incredibly harden exterior of Husk - or Tav as he so intimately shared this sacred name with a perfect stranger.
One offer. Ten minutes. Take it or leave it. With bated breath Conrad waited for Tav not knowing this night would change the course of his entire existence.
With a hot and steamy one night stand between two unlikely lovers, leading to breathless, desperate chance encounters to relive their desires from that night in question.
“I wanted to be surrounded by Con, consumed by him.”
This book kept me on edge, kept me turning the page to see what would come next. Locked in on the fated connection, an invisible tether between them. The spice in this book is hot, it builds and is written unlike any other writer I have read.
“Where did you come from Tav? Where the hell did you come from?”
“Why does it matter, when what’s important is I’m here right now.”
The MMCs in this book are bound to not only each other in the bedroom, but to a fate that seems to be in the hands of each others worst nightmare. As their worst fears come to fruition, so too does their freedom of being shackled to the tortuous life they were leading. Together, the two of them face their fears, to become whole within each other.
“You belong to me, and I will burn this city to the ground for you.”
Tropes:
Golden retriever/Black Cat
Millionaire/Underground Fighter
Age gap - adult, no teens
Dom/Sub - no pain kink
Hurt/Comfort
You belong to me
Touch him and die
Who hurt you?
Beautiful eyes
Found family
One night stand
Edging
Verse
This is currently a standalone but she ended the book hinting at more to come! It does NOT end on a cliffhanger, and very much achieves an HEA but the author beautifully left it open to further books while leaving the reader sated! I very much enjoyed this book and would recommend it!
“What’s your name?”
That was all it took for Conrad Stafford to begin to crack the incredibly harden exterior of Husk - or Tav as he so intimately shared this sacred name with a perfect stranger.
One offer. Ten minutes. Take it or leave it. With bated breath Conrad waited for Tav not knowing this night would change the course of his entire existence.
With a hot and steamy one night stand between two unlikely lovers, leading to breathless, desperate chance encounters to relive their desires from that night in question.
“I wanted to be surrounded by Con, consumed by him.”
This book kept me on edge, kept me turning the page to see what would come next. Locked in on the fated connection, an invisible tether between them. The spice in this book is hot, it builds and is written unlike any other writer I have read.
“Where did you come from Tav? Where the hell did you come from?”
“Why does it matter, when what’s important is I’m here right now.”
The MMCs in this book are bound to not only each other in the bedroom, but to a fate that seems to be in the hands of each others worst nightmare. As their worst fears come to fruition, so too does their freedom of being shackled to the tortuous life they were leading. Together, the two of them face their fears, to become whole within each other.
“You belong to me, and I will burn this city to the ground for you.”
Tropes:
Golden retriever/Black Cat
Millionaire/Underground Fighter
Age gap - adult, no teens
Dom/Sub - no pain kink
Hurt/Comfort
You belong to me
Touch him and die
Who hurt you?
Beautiful eyes
Found family
One night stand
Edging
Verse
This is currently a standalone but she ended the book hinting at more to come! It does NOT end on a cliffhanger, and very much achieves an HEA but the author beautifully left it open to further books while leaving the reader sated! I very much enjoyed this book and would recommend it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Fighter by Viv Allen is a dark MM romance that follows our MCs, Tav and Conrad. This is an angsty and gritty story, full of pain, anger, healing, and love. Make sure to check trigger warnings! I'm not sure what it was, but something about this book just spoke to me and pulled me right into the chaos. If you are looking for something that's gonna pull at your heart and make you sweat from the spice, this is your book! I had a great time with this story. I could hardly put it down.
I absolutely adored Tav and Cons' dynamic. I really enjoy D/S elements, and I love how it was portrayed in this book. It was so sweet seeing how they leaned on each other throughout the story, and how they didn't let each other run from their problems. It was a bit jarring how fast they became enamored with each other, but I got past that pretty fast with how much I loved them together. I also loved Ben and especially Nik; he was full of sass but so loyal. They were both great side characters. Then there was Devlin. While I hated the things he did, I still kinda felt for him. I really hope to see a story about him in the future.
Other than how fast the two kinda fell for each other, I would say the pacing felt good. Each chapter made me want to keep seeing what would happen next. You know it's good when you go “just one more chapter” again and again. The plot was interesting, though I wish we had seen a bit more of the fighting aspect. I will say that I think there were a few too many sex scenes. It was just a little much. There were some grammatical errors, but I'm sure those will be fixed before the final release.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and will be thinking about it for the foreseeable future. Tav and Con definitely have a place in my heart. Thank you so much to the author for the ARC. I'm so glad I got to read this beautiful story. I look forward to future works!
I absolutely adored Tav and Cons' dynamic. I really enjoy D/S elements, and I love how it was portrayed in this book. It was so sweet seeing how they leaned on each other throughout the story, and how they didn't let each other run from their problems. It was a bit jarring how fast they became enamored with each other, but I got past that pretty fast with how much I loved them together. I also loved Ben and especially Nik; he was full of sass but so loyal. They were both great side characters. Then there was Devlin. While I hated the things he did, I still kinda felt for him. I really hope to see a story about him in the future.
Other than how fast the two kinda fell for each other, I would say the pacing felt good. Each chapter made me want to keep seeing what would happen next. You know it's good when you go “just one more chapter” again and again. The plot was interesting, though I wish we had seen a bit more of the fighting aspect. I will say that I think there were a few too many sex scenes. It was just a little much. There were some grammatical errors, but I'm sure those will be fixed before the final release.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and will be thinking about it for the foreseeable future. Tav and Con definitely have a place in my heart. Thank you so much to the author for the ARC. I'm so glad I got to read this beautiful story. I look forward to future works!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Advance Copy Review..
This is a New to me Author, whoosh she did not disappoint.
Tav "Husk" has been suffering for the past 5 years. He lost it all communication with his sister and nephews he ends up giving up his dream to become a professional fighter instead he's in debt to someone who's just plain toxic Delvin. He ends up fighting underground trying to stay alive to make sure his sister and nephew are safe. He's in a bar just sulking until he meets..
Conrad when I tell you I swoon hard for this man I was literally fanning myself. Conrad catches Tav attention. Let's just say hot dam!! Conrad loves to dominate and be in control something Tav craves..
Conrad is a self made billionaire but he also has a side job he's also known as Soto ( a vigilante mafia boss). His former bestie Delvin is the root of both their problems. When I tell you Conrad will burn the world down for Tav & He means It...
Tav & Conrad go through it, they will go to any lengths to protect the ones they love. Tav & Conrad's relationship is beautiful the way their love blossom with each other was Amazing. I enjoyed this book. I would totally recommend this book. If you love underground fighting, a billionaire/ vigilante mafia boss, crime, found family and hard love you'll enjoy it as much as I did.
Viv Allen wrote this book with intensity, warmth and hard love. Thank you for letting me read these two beautiful men!
"TAV, I’M OBSESSED WITH YOU."
"GOOD."
'BECAUSE I'M OBSESSED WITH YOU TOO.
This is a New to me Author, whoosh she did not disappoint.
Tav "Husk" has been suffering for the past 5 years. He lost it all communication with his sister and nephews he ends up giving up his dream to become a professional fighter instead he's in debt to someone who's just plain toxic Delvin. He ends up fighting underground trying to stay alive to make sure his sister and nephew are safe. He's in a bar just sulking until he meets..
Conrad when I tell you I swoon hard for this man I was literally fanning myself. Conrad catches Tav attention. Let's just say hot dam!! Conrad loves to dominate and be in control something Tav craves..
Conrad is a self made billionaire but he also has a side job he's also known as Soto ( a vigilante mafia boss). His former bestie Delvin is the root of both their problems. When I tell you Conrad will burn the world down for Tav & He means It...
Tav & Conrad go through it, they will go to any lengths to protect the ones they love. Tav & Conrad's relationship is beautiful the way their love blossom with each other was Amazing. I enjoyed this book. I would totally recommend this book. If you love underground fighting, a billionaire/ vigilante mafia boss, crime, found family and hard love you'll enjoy it as much as I did.
Viv Allen wrote this book with intensity, warmth and hard love. Thank you for letting me read these two beautiful men!
"TAV, I’M OBSESSED WITH YOU."
"GOOD."
'BECAUSE I'M OBSESSED WITH YOU TOO.
Review of advance copy received from Author
*****ARC READ*****
WOW what a story!!! First of all, let me just say...Tav is delicious. I love everything about this man. The way Conrad approaches Tav at the bar is soooo good and the steam between these 2 is HOT!
Con sees Tav for who he really is and knows that he can't live without him. So he uses his money and power to change Tavs life. Along the way these two face serious trauma, self realization, and conquer demons. Tav is able to shed the Husk and smile.
Con is dominant by nature but his strong walls start to crumble for only Tav. Little by little.
This story is full of suspense, sorrow, loss, love, and new found second chances! I loved the tension between them and the changes they both had to go through. I would rate the spice 4 out of 5. Story was a definite 5 star for me!!!
I truly look forward to more amazing MM from this author!
Bravo!!!!!!!!!
Thank you for allowing me to ARC read!!!!!
WOW what a story!!! First of all, let me just say...Tav is delicious. I love everything about this man. The way Conrad approaches Tav at the bar is soooo good and the steam between these 2 is HOT!
Con sees Tav for who he really is and knows that he can't live without him. So he uses his money and power to change Tavs life. Along the way these two face serious trauma, self realization, and conquer demons. Tav is able to shed the Husk and smile.
Con is dominant by nature but his strong walls start to crumble for only Tav. Little by little.
This story is full of suspense, sorrow, loss, love, and new found second chances! I loved the tension between them and the changes they both had to go through. I would rate the spice 4 out of 5. Story was a definite 5 star for me!!!
I truly look forward to more amazing MM from this author!
Bravo!!!!!!!!!
Thank you for allowing me to ARC read!!!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow The Fighter by Viv Allen was a phenomenal MM Romance. This is book 1 in the Built to Break Series. This is her debut book and boy she really did her thing.
When I read the first part of the blurb, I knew this was going to be amazing. "A One-night stand turns into more when both men discover they have forbidden connection."
Tav aka Husk is an illegal underground fighter due to a BS debt to a crime lord named Devlin. He fights to protect his sister and nephew. Then Conrad sees Tav at the bar one day and see the pain and things he is going through and understands and wants Tav as his forever. Conrad is a self-made man who is dominate and once he is set on someone, he wants it.
Once Conrad finds out everything about Tav and the debt he is stuck he does everything to make everyone pay severely. I love this is a hurt/comfort book so much.
Overall, this was the most amazing, intense, gritty, and hardcore MM romance. I cannot wait to see how this series continues.
When I read the first part of the blurb, I knew this was going to be amazing. "A One-night stand turns into more when both men discover they have forbidden connection."
Tav aka Husk is an illegal underground fighter due to a BS debt to a crime lord named Devlin. He fights to protect his sister and nephew. Then Conrad sees Tav at the bar one day and see the pain and things he is going through and understands and wants Tav as his forever. Conrad is a self-made man who is dominate and once he is set on someone, he wants it.
Once Conrad finds out everything about Tav and the debt he is stuck he does everything to make everyone pay severely. I love this is a hurt/comfort book so much.
Overall, this was the most amazing, intense, gritty, and hardcore MM romance. I cannot wait to see how this series continues.
March 29, 2026
“If you come see me again, then that’s it. It means you’re mine. It means you can’t sneak off in the middle of the night. You’ll give me something other than a shortened first name.”
From the very first page, I wanted to wrap Tav in a hug. Though he’s the fighter, it’s Conrad who arrives like a knight in shining armor, unexpected, relentless, and impossible to ignore, literally burning the world down for Tav.
Their journey to something safe and real is anything but easy, paved with bloodshed, brutal fights, explosive moments, and layers of hidden identities. And yet, beneath all the chaos, this story delivers something deeply tender.
I won’t spoil the details, but I couldn’t put it down once I started. The found family that emerges by the end is nothing short of heartwarming, and watching Tav soften into the golden retriever energy he was always meant to have makes the HEA feel all the more satisfying.
From the very first page, I wanted to wrap Tav in a hug. Though he’s the fighter, it’s Conrad who arrives like a knight in shining armor, unexpected, relentless, and impossible to ignore, literally burning the world down for Tav.
Their journey to something safe and real is anything but easy, paved with bloodshed, brutal fights, explosive moments, and layers of hidden identities. And yet, beneath all the chaos, this story delivers something deeply tender.
I won’t spoil the details, but I couldn’t put it down once I started. The found family that emerges by the end is nothing short of heartwarming, and watching Tav soften into the golden retriever energy he was always meant to have makes the HEA feel all the more satisfying.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dark romance
Insta lust/love
Fast paced
Fast burn
CHECK TW
HEA
Amaaaazing!! I couldn’t put it down! Looooved how fast paced it was without losing the plot and all the context I really enjoyed every freaking second
The way the story and the POV´s are written the author makes you fall in love with the main characters but also with the side characters that I’m pretty sure we are going to have books about them!
The character growth 10/10…man I loved the dynamic, the connection, lit everything Con and Tav will forever be in my mind! The spice is really H.O.T
Can’t wait for book 2
PS: I need!!! Nik and Ben´s story idk if they have something going on but I want them to be together hahaha
Thank you Viv for an opportunity to read this arc. This is my honest review
Insta lust/love
Fast paced
Fast burn
CHECK TW
HEA
Amaaaazing!! I couldn’t put it down! Looooved how fast paced it was without losing the plot and all the context I really enjoyed every freaking second
The way the story and the POV´s are written the author makes you fall in love with the main characters but also with the side characters that I’m pretty sure we are going to have books about them!
The character growth 10/10…man I loved the dynamic, the connection, lit everything Con and Tav will forever be in my mind! The spice is really H.O.T
Can’t wait for book 2
PS: I need!!! Nik and Ben´s story idk if they have something going on but I want them to be together hahaha
Thank you Viv for an opportunity to read this arc. This is my honest review
March 30, 2026
Spoiler Free Book Review: The Fighter by Viv Allen
Beware, this is a book that once you start you won't be able to stop so cancel all your plans friend!
Conrad is a wealthy CEO at the height of his power. Dominant by nature. One night he sets his sights on an intriguing stranger, a hulking figure with mismatched eyes.
Tav, silent but deadly. He longs to give up control, to submit. Maybe Con can give him what he needs. As long as he doesn't look too deep, that's where the secrets lurk.
Only, Tav isn't the only one with secrets.
This book was literally everything! The plot was plotting, the spice had me sweating, and it left me feral for book two. This is Viv Allen's debut novel! Run don't walk people and show this author some love!
Beware, this is a book that once you start you won't be able to stop so cancel all your plans friend!
Conrad is a wealthy CEO at the height of his power. Dominant by nature. One night he sets his sights on an intriguing stranger, a hulking figure with mismatched eyes.
Tav, silent but deadly. He longs to give up control, to submit. Maybe Con can give him what he needs. As long as he doesn't look too deep, that's where the secrets lurk.
Only, Tav isn't the only one with secrets.
This book was literally everything! The plot was plotting, the spice had me sweating, and it left me feral for book two. This is Viv Allen's debut novel! Run don't walk people and show this author some love!
March 30, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ Tav and Con are so perfect for each other I want to cry. I loved how you could see the change in their character the more they opened up and spent time together. The way they relaxed when they realized they could be themselves. I also absolutely adored their dynamic. Tav got to let go and be vulnerable while also feeling safe for once in his life. Con was the perfect person to help him. The way they comforted each other and protected each other was so beautiful. I know damn well they would leave absolute destruction in their wake if the other one was hurt. That’s my kind of love story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Tav has had a shitty day, a shitty life really and he needs a drink! Heading to a bar he’s wallowing over a shot when a sexy confident stranger tells him to meet him in his Bentley for a night of submission and dick. Conrad has worked his way to the top from trailer park to penthouse and he is used to getting what he wants. What he wants is this sexy giant of a man tied to his bed warming his cock. One night isn’t enough and the two can’t stay away from each other. Tav is hiding a huge secret, one that could get him and his family killed. He has to fight literally and figuratively to stay alive. With his connections and his power Con can pay Tavs debt to his handler and they can live together in peace. However when he finds out who Tav belongs too things get so much more complicated with deadly consequences. These two powerful men are so beautifully vulnerable with each other, they fit each other perfectly. Tav needs to be dominated to make the bad things go away and Con needs to dominate for the same reason, but they are so intrinsically entwined they need to help each other face their demons before taking down a common enemy.
For full tropes see my insta: mmbooksl_t
For full tropes see my insta: mmbooksl_t
Review of advance copy received from Author
The fighter is based on three childhood friends that grew up poor and life choices that were made making them into what they became. Conrad feels the guilt and carries the actions of his childhood friend, Devlin so much so that he has a secret identity trying to stop him.
Tav is just trying to live, keep his sister and nephew alive doing what has to be done even though it is killing him. He is under the thumb of Devlin and sees no way out.
Conrad and Tav meet in a bar and they hit it off. Both have secrets but, they are drawn to each other.
Conrad will do anything to help Tav out and when he stumbles into what Tav is made to do. He will burn the city down if needed to keep him safe.
I enjoyed Conrad and Tav. Their dynamics, falling in love for two people who hide everything, found family/getting family back and finally facing the person causing all the trouble.
I enjoyed Nic and Ben, Conrads friends and I hope we see more of them. As for, Devlin it will be interesting how his redemption comes about.
Tav is just trying to live, keep his sister and nephew alive doing what has to be done even though it is killing him. He is under the thumb of Devlin and sees no way out.
Conrad and Tav meet in a bar and they hit it off. Both have secrets but, they are drawn to each other.
Conrad will do anything to help Tav out and when he stumbles into what Tav is made to do. He will burn the city down if needed to keep him safe.
I enjoyed Conrad and Tav. Their dynamics, falling in love for two people who hide everything, found family/getting family back and finally facing the person causing all the trouble.
I enjoyed Nic and Ben, Conrads friends and I hope we see more of them. As for, Devlin it will be interesting how his redemption comes about.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow! This was an amazing debut novel. I was hooked from page one. I was so invested in Conrad and Tavs story.
Tav is struggling with a life he never wanted. Just going through the day to day motions until one night he meets Conrad at a bar. An instant connection sparks and for once Tav just wants to do something for himself.
Conrad is a millionaire with a somewhat sketchy past. He recognizes the same struggle in Tav. Something about the quiet, giant man calls to him.
There was the perfect balance of spice and story. There was so much emotion and personal growth between both MMC.
Im so excited to see what Viv Allen comes out with next!
Tav is struggling with a life he never wanted. Just going through the day to day motions until one night he meets Conrad at a bar. An instant connection sparks and for once Tav just wants to do something for himself.
Conrad is a millionaire with a somewhat sketchy past. He recognizes the same struggle in Tav. Something about the quiet, giant man calls to him.
There was the perfect balance of spice and story. There was so much emotion and personal growth between both MMC.
Im so excited to see what Viv Allen comes out with next!
March 27, 2026
this is the first book I've read by Viv Allen and I really loved it. I read it in one go. Conrad and Tav where my dream couple, I love their dynamic. Con is more dominate during the sexy times, but both men care for the other. Con has a small group of close friends, and I hope we get to see more of them. hope this becomes a series. more of Con and Tav down the road would be cool too.
March 31, 2026
So this was my first book by this author and I felt so bad for Tav but then he found Conrad. This book was a little insta lust for Conrad but I’m glad that Tav found someone who would burn down the world for him. There was some spicy scenes, to some action scenes and some saving each other scenes if that’s your thing then this book is for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
The Fighter is a MM romance that follows Tav a down on his luck underground fighter and Conrad a CEO. I thought the chemistry between the two MCs was great and I really enjoyed the plot. Overall, I really enjoyed the book and I would highly recommend it!
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Fighter is a MM romance that follows Tav a down on his luck underground fighter and Conrad a CEO. I thought the chemistry between the two MCs was great and I really enjoyed the plot. Overall, I really enjoyed the book and I would highly recommend it!
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review coming
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this MM millionaire x fighter romance.
both the characters have come from similar backgrounds but have grown up differently.
a chance encounter in a bar leads to a faught for romance.
the spice is heavy in this book bit really well done.
I liked how the burly one was tue bottom.
Great ending as well.
both the characters have come from similar backgrounds but have grown up differently.
a chance encounter in a bar leads to a faught for romance.
the spice is heavy in this book bit really well done.
I liked how the burly one was tue bottom.
Great ending as well.
March 28, 2026
L histoire a un peu de mal a demarrer du fait de la premiere scene de sexe trop long. Le scenario est previsible mais cela se lit bien
March 28, 2026
very sold 4.5 🌟.
March 30, 2026
mommy LOVED this
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews