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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).
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 27, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
May 5, 2026
4**** stars
Conrad & Tavin
Fighter x Millionaire — but the story is mostly about smth else.
I wish there would’ve been less errors but overall I loved reading this book. And I’m excited for Devlin’s redemption!
***********
Built to Break Series
Book 1 - The Fighter - 4.0 stars
Book 2 - The Villain - release 08/26
Conrad & Tavin
Fighter x Millionaire — but the story is mostly about smth else.
I wish there would’ve been less errors but overall I loved reading this book. And I’m excited for Devlin’s redemption!
***********
Built to Break Series
Book 1 - The Fighter - 4.0 stars
Book 2 - The Villain - release 08/26
April 20, 2026
I love finding new authors randomly and I love even more when I end up enjoying the book. I went into this one blind as far as reviews went which is something I never do!! As a safety girl I couldn’t fathom why I did that but I’ve been in such a slump lately I said eff it and went for it. It turned out I had nothing to worry about.
The writing was very good. It was so easy to read and I didn’t feel like it had all these riddles like authors seem to be doing these days.
So before the book begins we are told this book has D/s elements to it. I usually stay away from those these days because after reading so many I realized I don’t like that dynamic. Or maybe I haven’t read one I really liked. I actually really enjoyed the dynamic here. Maybe because there wasn’t like spanking or whipping involved. There was no pain and Conrad considered himself a soft dominant who didn’t have a pain kink which really aligned with me. So I was pleasantly surprised that I loved their dynamic.
These two together were great. I loved how they were there for one another all the time. They had so many sweet moments and when Conrad messed up and did something Tav didn’t like he was genuinely remorseful about it and made sure to actually say sorry. I loved that these two only had eyes for each other for the entire book. From the moment they met there was no one else for either of them, even when they spent time apart. They only thought about the other and didn’t entertain the idea of anyone else. So happy about that.
I loved the secondary characters. Nik and Ben were great!!
But on to the stuff that made this not a five star for me:
Conrad feeling responsible for his ex best friend turning into a complete psychopath was very frustrating. He put all the blame on himself and it just didn’t make sense to me. His friend was a grown ass man and it wasn’t Conrad’s he fault didn’t handle rejection well.
Which leads me to my next thing…the villain. He became a villain because he got rejected by Conrad 10 years ago. This man goes off the hinges, literally destroys everything he touches, becomes psychotic because his best friend didn’t return his feelings? I just didn’t like this plot line at all. I felt like there should have been another reason for it honestly. But that’s just my opinion.
Okay final thing. The ending!! The villain!! This man, this complete waste of space kidnaps Tav years ago, holds him in a cage and tortures him. He forces people into prostitution, makes people fight to the death to repay him, kills innocent people and talks about killing a pregnant woman. And this man gets to live? He just gets taken to a new city and threatened to stay away. He gets money to start a new life and his medical bills paid for? And wait that’s not even the worst part….this asshole GETS HIS OWN BOOK??!! I was so baffled when I saw his book was next!! I’m sorry but this man needed death, not redemption. There’s no redeeming that. And to give him a book before Nik or Ben?!!! You’ve got to be shitting me. No thanks. I’ll come back when someone worthy of a HEA gets their own book. 🙄
Anyway…
No cheating or real OM drama. No third act break up. D/s elements. Violence and torture. Talk of killing a pregnant woman. HEA (living together and talk of marriage)
The writing was very good. It was so easy to read and I didn’t feel like it had all these riddles like authors seem to be doing these days.
So before the book begins we are told this book has D/s elements to it. I usually stay away from those these days because after reading so many I realized I don’t like that dynamic. Or maybe I haven’t read one I really liked. I actually really enjoyed the dynamic here. Maybe because there wasn’t like spanking or whipping involved. There was no pain and Conrad considered himself a soft dominant who didn’t have a pain kink which really aligned with me. So I was pleasantly surprised that I loved their dynamic.
These two together were great. I loved how they were there for one another all the time. They had so many sweet moments and when Conrad messed up and did something Tav didn’t like he was genuinely remorseful about it and made sure to actually say sorry. I loved that these two only had eyes for each other for the entire book. From the moment they met there was no one else for either of them, even when they spent time apart. They only thought about the other and didn’t entertain the idea of anyone else. So happy about that.
I loved the secondary characters. Nik and Ben were great!!
But on to the stuff that made this not a five star for me:
Conrad feeling responsible for his ex best friend turning into a complete psychopath was very frustrating. He put all the blame on himself and it just didn’t make sense to me. His friend was a grown ass man and it wasn’t Conrad’s he fault didn’t handle rejection well.
Which leads me to my next thing…the villain. He became a villain because he got rejected by Conrad 10 years ago. This man goes off the hinges, literally destroys everything he touches, becomes psychotic because his best friend didn’t return his feelings? I just didn’t like this plot line at all. I felt like there should have been another reason for it honestly. But that’s just my opinion.
Okay final thing. The ending!! The villain!! This man, this complete waste of space kidnaps Tav years ago, holds him in a cage and tortures him. He forces people into prostitution, makes people fight to the death to repay him, kills innocent people and talks about killing a pregnant woman. And this man gets to live? He just gets taken to a new city and threatened to stay away. He gets money to start a new life and his medical bills paid for? And wait that’s not even the worst part….this asshole GETS HIS OWN BOOK??!! I was so baffled when I saw his book was next!! I’m sorry but this man needed death, not redemption. There’s no redeeming that. And to give him a book before Nik or Ben?!!! You’ve got to be shitting me. No thanks. I’ll come back when someone worthy of a HEA gets their own book. 🙄
Anyway…
No cheating or real OM drama. No third act break up. D/s elements. Violence and torture. Talk of killing a pregnant woman. HEA (living together and talk of marriage)
April 9, 2026
“You belong to me and I will burn this city down for you” and burn he diddddd! Yes please
May 26, 2026
yes
So freaking good! Omg Tav and Con are everything. I loved these two together! This is a new to me author and I could see myself reading more from them(maybe not the next one. More on that later)
The writing was great, the story was good and emotional. I loved how these two complemented each other. How they broke each others walls down. How they protected each other. Both of them. The side characters were great! I’m not sure about the next book. Out of all side characters to be the next book why that one? I will pass and come out. Some things are just unforgiving for me.
In the know
Dual POV
No cheating
No sharing
Found family is great
So freaking good! Omg Tav and Con are everything. I loved these two together! This is a new to me author and I could see myself reading more from them(maybe not the next one. More on that later)
The writing was great, the story was good and emotional. I loved how these two complemented each other. How they broke each others walls down. How they protected each other. Both of them. The side characters were great! I’m not sure about the next book. Out of all side characters to be the next book why that one? I will pass and come out. Some things are just unforgiving for me.
In the know
Dual POV
No cheating
No sharing
Found family is great
April 26, 2026
Tav...No words can sum up how his hurt resonated .He was reduced to a shell of himself to keep the people he loved from harm, even if that meant a life of pain, hurt and loneliness. Tav is a good man existing in a hard life.
At first glance you would think that he and Con don't fit but they do. They are perfect for each other because they meet each other's needs. Beneath that upstanding rich CEO image, Con can relate to Tav as they have a similar origin story.
It's a pity that they had to go through their 'difficulties' before meeting each other. However as the saying goes everything happens for a reason and this HEA was totally worth the suffering, disappointment and hurt. Why? Their relationship and reliance on each other was incredibly heartwarming. The realness of their relationship was fantastic. You know when you love someone every awkward, annoying thing just pales in significance. It's still irritating AF, but everything else in the relationship redeems it. That feeling in your heart, the warmth when you hear their name, the pleasure you get from spending time with them, all of it.
I looking forward to seeing Devlin redeemed. Right now I could care less, but I have a feeling that Viv Allen will make me care a great deal.
At first glance you would think that he and Con don't fit but they do. They are perfect for each other because they meet each other's needs. Beneath that upstanding rich CEO image, Con can relate to Tav as they have a similar origin story.
It's a pity that they had to go through their 'difficulties' before meeting each other. However as the saying goes everything happens for a reason and this HEA was totally worth the suffering, disappointment and hurt. Why? Their relationship and reliance on each other was incredibly heartwarming. The realness of their relationship was fantastic. You know when you love someone every awkward, annoying thing just pales in significance. It's still irritating AF, but everything else in the relationship redeems it. That feeling in your heart, the warmth when you hear their name, the pleasure you get from spending time with them, all of it.
I looking forward to seeing Devlin redeemed. Right now I could care less, but I have a feeling that Viv Allen will make me care a great deal.
May 5, 2026
You know, I almost gave this book 4 stars because there are quite a few grammatical errors, but I loved it so much I gave the star back.
I LOVED this book. Yes, the attraction was fast, but it didn’t feel insta-lovey or lusty at all. It just felt like instant chemistry. I loved Tav and Con together SO MUCH. They were so intense and would do anything for each other. They never let each other get away with bullshit. The spice was HOT but you could also feel the chemistry and passion and love. LOVE the bigger bottom/smaller top, soft D/s dynamics.
I am interested in how Devlin is going to redeem himself in the next book. It’s gonna be hard, cause he was a real dick in this book. Also I am DYING for Nik and Ben’s stories…and maybe Casey and Shane???
I LOVED this book. Yes, the attraction was fast, but it didn’t feel insta-lovey or lusty at all. It just felt like instant chemistry. I loved Tav and Con together SO MUCH. They were so intense and would do anything for each other. They never let each other get away with bullshit. The spice was HOT but you could also feel the chemistry and passion and love. LOVE the bigger bottom/smaller top, soft D/s dynamics.
I am interested in how Devlin is going to redeem himself in the next book. It’s gonna be hard, cause he was a real dick in this book. Also I am DYING for Nik and Ben’s stories…and maybe Casey and Shane???
May 14, 2026
I got secondhand embarrassment from the cinnamon roll scene and I wish they would’ve pretended it never happened.
April 30, 2026
This book had so much promise but didn't deliver.
Conrad wasn't as bad-arse as promised.
Tav gave his name too soon.
The kink wasn't solid enough. If you want a great D/s or TPE relationship, read the Giovanni series by Laura Lascarso.
There was way too much introspection.
And then there's examples of the too consistent typos-
it was enough to make me lost my cool.
He eyes took me in greedily I rose to my feet, unable to look at him in the eye Two of his men were in the room two - two is substituted on numerous occasions for too, as in also. And this sentence structure is weird - You have ten minutes.” “I’ll have enough time as it takes.”
Beta readers could pick these things up just like I did. The typos took me out of the story. I have expectations of solid editing when I pay for a book.
Conrad wasn't as bad-arse as promised.
Tav gave his name too soon.
The kink wasn't solid enough. If you want a great D/s or TPE relationship, read the Giovanni series by Laura Lascarso.
There was way too much introspection.
And then there's examples of the too consistent typos-
it was enough to make me lost my cool.
He eyes took me in greedily I rose to my feet, unable to look at him in the eye Two of his men were in the room two - two is substituted on numerous occasions for too, as in also. And this sentence structure is weird - You have ten minutes.” “I’ll have enough time as it takes.”
Beta readers could pick these things up just like I did. The typos took me out of the story. I have expectations of solid editing when I pay for a book.
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!
April 22, 2026
4.5⭐️( although the more I marinate on this book- it may end up being 5⭐️)
This book was such an unexpected surprise—I loved it even more knowing it’s a debut novel! When it opened with a one-night stand between the two MCs, I wasn’t totally sure what to expect. Sometimes that setup leans more into the spice than the emotional connection—but that was absolutely not the case here.
The author did an incredible job building the connection between Conrad and Tav. From the very beginning, it felt like something deeper than just physical chemistry—there was a genuine, soul-deep pull between them. Conrad seemed to instinctively understand what Tav needed, and the fact that Tav trusted him enough to share something he’d kept hidden for five years—his first name—so early on? That moment really stuck with me.
And the yearning after that first night? Immaculate. I loved the moment when Con told Nik, “He’s mine. I’m keeping him.” That possessiveness just worked so well for his character and their dynamic. It added another layer to the emotional intensity between them that I couldn’t get enough of.
The side plot and the interconnectedness of Devlin was also really well done and kept me just as invested in the bigger story as I was in their relationship. Everything felt thoughtfully woven together.
I also really appreciated Tav’s character development. Watching him grow from someone who needed protection and to submit, into someone strong enough to stand up and fight for Conrad in return was so satisfying. When he finally felt safe enough to be happy he was the sweetest cinnamon roll sweetheart. And his reunion with his sister and nephew? My heart absolutely melted.
This book hit the perfect balance of tender and spicy, with a strong plot and a wonderful found family element. If you love one-night-stand-to-lovers, hurt/comfort, intense yearning, and deep emotional connection (with some delicious spice), you’re going to love this one.
This book was such an unexpected surprise—I loved it even more knowing it’s a debut novel! When it opened with a one-night stand between the two MCs, I wasn’t totally sure what to expect. Sometimes that setup leans more into the spice than the emotional connection—but that was absolutely not the case here.
The author did an incredible job building the connection between Conrad and Tav. From the very beginning, it felt like something deeper than just physical chemistry—there was a genuine, soul-deep pull between them. Conrad seemed to instinctively understand what Tav needed, and the fact that Tav trusted him enough to share something he’d kept hidden for five years—his first name—so early on? That moment really stuck with me.
And the yearning after that first night? Immaculate. I loved the moment when Con told Nik, “He’s mine. I’m keeping him.” That possessiveness just worked so well for his character and their dynamic. It added another layer to the emotional intensity between them that I couldn’t get enough of.
The side plot and the interconnectedness of Devlin was also really well done and kept me just as invested in the bigger story as I was in their relationship. Everything felt thoughtfully woven together.
I also really appreciated Tav’s character development. Watching him grow from someone who needed protection and to submit, into someone strong enough to stand up and fight for Conrad in return was so satisfying. When he finally felt safe enough to be happy he was the sweetest cinnamon roll sweetheart. And his reunion with his sister and nephew? My heart absolutely melted.
This book hit the perfect balance of tender and spicy, with a strong plot and a wonderful found family element. If you love one-night-stand-to-lovers, hurt/comfort, intense yearning, and deep emotional connection (with some delicious spice), you’re going to love this one.
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.
April 16, 2026
“You belong to me, and I will burn this city to the ground for you.”
^ Page 182.
Boring. Repetitive. Not a fan of writing style.
I'm trying to keep this short as I realise no one likes or even reads any of my reviews.
I'll be honest and start by saying I skimmed the majority of this book and I definitely should've DNFd. Therefore, that's on me. However, I seem to get hate on Goodreads for DNFing lately which is why I pushed through.
There was nothing interesting about this book. The paragraphs felt endless and sometimes took up an entire screen worth of text. The plot was repetitive I think we found out that Devlin was an asshole almost every chapter multiple times. What he did to Tav and how Conrad felt about him was clear as day. The reason for Tav leaving his sister was also clear as day the first few times it was mentioned/told.
Then the writing style? 2 short points here.
1. I wish authors would read through their book properly when they use swear words. Putting "fuck" in certain places loses the value of the sentence and confuses the fuck out of me. I get it, I'm British so we swear multiple times in almost every sentence but there are certain places you can and can't put them.
Example (page 143):
“What the fuck ever. (Start of a long quote)
^ Just doesn't sound right.
2. Slight editing needed because there were a few mistakes.
Example (page 73):
“You don’t didn’t know him back then, Nik. I did. He could have—”
^ Doesn't need don't and didn't next to each other, one or the other.
In conclusion, I was bored and nothing grabbed my attention so I didn't like this one.
^ Page 182.
Boring. Repetitive. Not a fan of writing style.
I'm trying to keep this short as I realise no one likes or even reads any of my reviews.
I'll be honest and start by saying I skimmed the majority of this book and I definitely should've DNFd. Therefore, that's on me. However, I seem to get hate on Goodreads for DNFing lately which is why I pushed through.
There was nothing interesting about this book. The paragraphs felt endless and sometimes took up an entire screen worth of text. The plot was repetitive I think we found out that Devlin was an asshole almost every chapter multiple times. What he did to Tav and how Conrad felt about him was clear as day. The reason for Tav leaving his sister was also clear as day the first few times it was mentioned/told.
Then the writing style? 2 short points here.
1. I wish authors would read through their book properly when they use swear words. Putting "fuck" in certain places loses the value of the sentence and confuses the fuck out of me. I get it, I'm British so we swear multiple times in almost every sentence but there are certain places you can and can't put them.
Example (page 143):
“What the fuck ever. (Start of a long quote)
^ Just doesn't sound right.
2. Slight editing needed because there were a few mistakes.
Example (page 73):
“You don’t didn’t know him back then, Nik. I did. He could have—”
^ Doesn't need don't and didn't next to each other, one or the other.
In conclusion, I was bored and nothing grabbed my attention so I didn't like this one.
May 26, 2026
Was it perfect? NO... but did I enjoy it? YES.
Im finally coming back to write a proper review.
This one will frustrate and excite you.
One night stand turned obsession 🥵 Conrad was dominating but a nurturing. It was just what Tav needed and deserved.
There is OPD but Conrad wants nothing to do with him.
“I want you to suck me, slowly and gently. My cock, my balls. Not enough to make me come, just enough to keep me hard. I want all your attention focused on me.” I slipped on my reading glasses that were on my nightstand and picked up a file I’d placed there earlier in the day, with the intention of reading it before bed. “While you do that, I’m going to do some work.”
Im finally coming back to write a proper review.
This one will frustrate and excite you.
One night stand turned obsession 🥵 Conrad was dominating but a nurturing. It was just what Tav needed and deserved.
There is OPD but Conrad wants nothing to do with him.
“I want you to suck me, slowly and gently. My cock, my balls. Not enough to make me come, just enough to keep me hard. I want all your attention focused on me.” I slipped on my reading glasses that were on my nightstand and picked up a file I’d placed there earlier in the day, with the intention of reading it before bed. “While you do that, I’m going to do some work.”
Did Not Finish
May 3, 2026I'm soft dnf'ing at 75%. I haven't picked this up in a few days and have read other things in the meantime. Maybe I'll finish it but safe to say it won't be now. Nothing wrong with it but I've got other things I'm more interested in rn.
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.
April 4, 2026
The Fighter – Viv Allen
I want to start by saying this: I honestly couldn’t believe this was the author’s debut… because it had no right to be this good 😮🔥
Possessiveness and dark romance are already my weakness… and when you add a well-executed plot and characters that actually make you feel it, I’m completely sold 🖤 I truly enjoyed this book from start to finish, it just flowed so effortlessly.
But what pulled me in the most was definitely this:
The story starting off with a spicy scene right away and then slowly turning into an obsession… that shift, the way everything got darker and more intense… that’s exactly what I was looking for 😏🔥
The chemistry between the characters is there from the very beginning, but the real magic is how that chemistry evolves into obsession… and after that, nothing stays the same 👀
I also really loved the author’s writing style. It’s smooth, immersive, and does an amazing job of pulling you right into the story.
In short, this is definitely one of those books that makes me say:
👉 you absolutely need to read this.
I want to start by saying this: I honestly couldn’t believe this was the author’s debut… because it had no right to be this good 😮🔥
Possessiveness and dark romance are already my weakness… and when you add a well-executed plot and characters that actually make you feel it, I’m completely sold 🖤 I truly enjoyed this book from start to finish, it just flowed so effortlessly.
But what pulled me in the most was definitely this:
The story starting off with a spicy scene right away and then slowly turning into an obsession… that shift, the way everything got darker and more intense… that’s exactly what I was looking for 😏🔥
The chemistry between the characters is there from the very beginning, but the real magic is how that chemistry evolves into obsession… and after that, nothing stays the same 👀
I also really loved the author’s writing style. It’s smooth, immersive, and does an amazing job of pulling you right into the story.
In short, this is definitely one of those books that makes me say:
👉 you absolutely need to read this.
May 19, 2026
Ever finish a book that you wish you had DNF? This was one for me. I’m being very generous with the 3 stars I gave. Every time I sat this book down, I had to talk myself into picking it back up. It wasn’t BAD but it wasn’t great either. My biggest complaint were the many, many typos. Normally I don’t mind a typo or two, mistakes happen. About 40% in, I started highlighting them. 15, and every time it took me out of the story because I was so annoyed.
Ok now on to the actual story and characters. I didn’t really care about either character. Conrad was bossy and not always in a fun D/s way. The way he forced Tav to confront his trauma was too much and not healthy. Definitely found myself rolling my eyes a LOT. I didn’t dislike Tav as much but he was just boring once Con knew his story. And the reasoning for Devlin starting up his criminal empire, 🙄. This could just be my annoyance talking too. I was barely invested enough to finish the story but won’t be reading the next.
And I am all for spicy scenes, the more spice, the better. But come on. We got plenty of spice, but everything Soto did to bring down Devljn was off page! Would’ve been nice to actually see how it was happening AND how did Devlin know who Tav was with!? Lots of plot holes that were not cleared up at all. And the ending!?! WTF! Not what he deserved at all. Now I’m annoyed all over again.
Ok now on to the actual story and characters. I didn’t really care about either character. Conrad was bossy and not always in a fun D/s way. The way he forced Tav to confront his trauma was too much and not healthy. Definitely found myself rolling my eyes a LOT. I didn’t dislike Tav as much but he was just boring once Con knew his story. And the reasoning for Devlin starting up his criminal empire, 🙄. This could just be my annoyance talking too. I was barely invested enough to finish the story but won’t be reading the next.
And I am all for spicy scenes, the more spice, the better. But come on. We got plenty of spice, but everything Soto did to bring down Devljn was off page! Would’ve been nice to actually see how it was happening AND how did Devlin know who Tav was with!? Lots of plot holes that were not cleared up at all. And the ending!?! WTF! Not what he deserved at all. Now I’m annoyed all over again.
May 21, 2026
Good start but dragged on after the first half
First, I am glad to read a book not written by AI. I’m getting really tired of AI-written garbage, so thank you for that!
I did like the slightly unusual story line at first, but I started to get annoyed at Tav for giving up all of his closely guarded secrets so readily whenever Con used sex to “force” him.
And there were a lot of grammatical/spelling errors like missing words or too many words or incorrect verb tense. The author should’ve had a copy editor fix those issues but this is the era of the self-published novel and authors rarely fork out the money to hire an editor, even though reviews like this result in lower credibility.
This also dragged on for way longer than it needed to. I bailed after getting 65% of the way through.
I think the author has talent but needs to up her game. And I definitely am behind “sweating out everyword” over using AI. I hope the author stays true to that.
First, I am glad to read a book not written by AI. I’m getting really tired of AI-written garbage, so thank you for that!
I did like the slightly unusual story line at first, but I started to get annoyed at Tav for giving up all of his closely guarded secrets so readily whenever Con used sex to “force” him.
And there were a lot of grammatical/spelling errors like missing words or too many words or incorrect verb tense. The author should’ve had a copy editor fix those issues but this is the era of the self-published novel and authors rarely fork out the money to hire an editor, even though reviews like this result in lower credibility.
This also dragged on for way longer than it needed to. I bailed after getting 65% of the way through.
I think the author has talent but needs to up her game. And I definitely am behind “sweating out everyword” over using AI. I hope the author stays true to that.
May 24, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
“I didn’t speak. He didn’t know how much it took for me to tell him Tav. That alone was more than I’d given anyone in years.”
A love forced to cage fight to pay off his debt to the dirtiest criminal around, what are the odds he’d come across the only man that could stop him?
This book had me in shambles cause what do you meannn
“I’m taking it all, and I’m keeping it.”
He couldn’t know what he was asking, that I didn’t have enough to give him and still keep myself alive.”
he could’ve been a gentle giant but I guess we’d never know
“Of course I always wanted to be somebody’s. I didn’t know if that was right, or healthy, or even sane. But I did. More than anything.”
cue the pulling on my heart strings, i love him
“I didn’t speak. He didn’t know how much it took for me to tell him Tav. That alone was more than I’d given anyone in years.”
A love forced to cage fight to pay off his debt to the dirtiest criminal around, what are the odds he’d come across the only man that could stop him?
This book had me in shambles cause what do you meannn
“I’m taking it all, and I’m keeping it.”
He couldn’t know what he was asking, that I didn’t have enough to give him and still keep myself alive.”
he could’ve been a gentle giant but I guess we’d never know
“Of course I always wanted to be somebody’s. I didn’t know if that was right, or healthy, or even sane. But I did. More than anything.”
cue the pulling on my heart strings, i love him
May 1, 2026
Dnf @ 44% 🥱
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!
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.
Did Not Finish
April 5, 2026ARC Review Provided By Author
DNF @ 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 :)
DNF @ 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 :)
April 24, 2026
MM/ age gap/ millionaire romance/ one night stand/ touch him and die/ forced proximity/ OM drama/ morally gray MMC/ hurt/comfort/ found family/ HEA
Trigger warning: death of a loved one/ bondage/ violence/ torture/ mentions of drug overdose/ mentions of sex work/ somnophilia/ kidnapping/ cheating(not MCs)/ murder/ assault/ criminal activity
This was good but the end was kind of a letdown. Not every antagonist deserves a redemption arc.
Trigger warning: death of a loved one/ bondage/ violence/ torture/ mentions of drug overdose/ mentions of sex work/ somnophilia/ kidnapping/ cheating(not MCs)/ murder/ assault/ criminal activity
This was good but the end was kind of a letdown. Not every antagonist deserves a redemption arc.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2026
4.0 stars!
RTC
RTC
April 27, 2026
Round up at the end
This was a five star book with a three star ending for me personally. I loved the bare bones of this book. The characters were fun and unique. I enjoy their dynamic. It did feel like the first half of this book was a lot stronger. I loved the side characters as well, but as the plot went along, it lost steam.
A note that this is Insta love, even though it doesn’t feel like it. The characters don’t really know each other before they will burn down the world for each other, but it kind of works.
My main complaint that was that everything was so easy for Con. He’s supposed to be running this massive criminal empire centered around escorts, but he has a huge moral compass and once he decides to do something it all falls into place, yet we don’t really see him working. His monologue doesn’t fit the character that we’re told he is and we never really see him as anything, but sweet and caring. Clearly, they’re supposed to be another side to him, but we never see it. It made the plot feel one-sided and a little too much in the world of escapism.
I just wish that the overall plot was stronger, the villains that were so evil in this book are getting redemption in the next book and I can’t say I really want that . So much pain took place at the sidelines of this book that I don’t know if I really want redemption for the man that caused it.
In the end, though, I had to give this four stars versus three because I really enjoyed the characters even though I skimmed the end I really liked their journey, I would love for Ben and Nick to get their own stories. They were great characters.
Round up
🌶️ 4/5
Favorite thing: Con’s devotion to Tav based on kind of nothing. I love that he doesn’t doubt himself and Tav is right there with him.
Least: Tav is built up as such a complex character that I loved learning more about, however, by the end of the book, we don’t really learn enough about him. It all shifts back to Con and I feel like his POV gets kinda lost.
Favorite side character: Nik, I want him to get his own story
Least favorite: Devlin
Would I read more from this author? Probably, I’m thrilled to see a submissive, gross villian POS that tourtured so many people like Devlin get his own pain based bdsm redemption arc. But would be interested in other characters stories
This was a five star book with a three star ending for me personally. I loved the bare bones of this book. The characters were fun and unique. I enjoy their dynamic. It did feel like the first half of this book was a lot stronger. I loved the side characters as well, but as the plot went along, it lost steam.
A note that this is Insta love, even though it doesn’t feel like it. The characters don’t really know each other before they will burn down the world for each other, but it kind of works.
My main complaint that was that everything was so easy for Con. He’s supposed to be running this massive criminal empire centered around escorts, but he has a huge moral compass and once he decides to do something it all falls into place, yet we don’t really see him working. His monologue doesn’t fit the character that we’re told he is and we never really see him as anything, but sweet and caring. Clearly, they’re supposed to be another side to him, but we never see it. It made the plot feel one-sided and a little too much in the world of escapism.
I just wish that the overall plot was stronger, the villains that were so evil in this book are getting redemption in the next book and I can’t say I really want that . So much pain took place at the sidelines of this book that I don’t know if I really want redemption for the man that caused it.
In the end, though, I had to give this four stars versus three because I really enjoyed the characters even though I skimmed the end I really liked their journey, I would love for Ben and Nick to get their own stories. They were great characters.
Round up
🌶️ 4/5
Favorite thing: Con’s devotion to Tav based on kind of nothing. I love that he doesn’t doubt himself and Tav is right there with him.
Least: Tav is built up as such a complex character that I loved learning more about, however, by the end of the book, we don’t really learn enough about him. It all shifts back to Con and I feel like his POV gets kinda lost.
Favorite side character: Nik, I want him to get his own story
Least favorite: Devlin
Would I read more from this author? Probably, I’m thrilled to see a submissive, gross villian POS that tourtured so many people like Devlin get his own pain based bdsm redemption arc. But would be interested in other characters stories
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!
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