What do you think?
After the Knockout
- GenresAfrican American
238 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 10, 2026
About the author
A. Blossom
21 books593 followersAuthor Blossom is an upcoming best selling author born and raised in Saint Louis, Mo. It was there that she developed a love for reading and writing early on. A. Blossom knew she had a passion for writing after she wrote her first story for the girls in her eight-grade class. A. Blossom wants to pen love stories that show black women and men of all skin tones, shapes, and sizes.
When she isn’t writing, Blossom spends her free time with her husband and her two small children. A. Blossom is excited to embark on this journey and invites readers to let love grow. Blossom can be reached on these platforms:
Email: authorablossom@gmail.com
Instagram: author_blossom
Facebook: Author A Blossom
Twitter: @AuthorBlossom
When she isn’t writing, Blossom spends her free time with her husband and her two small children. A. Blossom is excited to embark on this journey and invites readers to let love grow. Blossom can be reached on these platforms:
Email: authorablossom@gmail.com
Instagram: author_blossom
Facebook: Author A Blossom
Twitter: @AuthorBlossom
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
August 18, 2026
okay
As much as I love secret baby, I didn’t really like this storyline. I actually didn’t care for this couple. Loved Dakoda. I felt like the rekindling happened too quick. Appreciate the counseling though.
I felt like the details were inaccurate. In the prologue, they made it seem like KO was supposed to rig his match, not be setup to be robbed. It was six years later and they kept saying five. How does KO have millions if this was his major fighting debut? As the underdog, why would he throw the fight? A few grammatical errors.
As much as I love secret baby, I didn’t really like this storyline. I actually didn’t care for this couple. Loved Dakoda. I felt like the rekindling happened too quick. Appreciate the counseling though.
I felt like the details were inaccurate. In the prologue, they made it seem like KO was supposed to rig his match, not be setup to be robbed. It was six years later and they kept saying five. How does KO have millions if this was his major fighting debut? As the underdog, why would he throw the fight? A few grammatical errors.
July 15, 2026
Slow burn sports romance. Secret baby trope. Lovers to enemies to lovers. Lyrius wasn’t living right leaving Dakota “KO” to deal with the fallout. Six years later she has to evacuate due to a hurricane. She ends up back in the last place she expected and she’s not alone. Unforeseen circumstances lead her right back in the arms of KO and he’s pissed. Feelings are fought and the denial is real. It took them some time but when these two finally got it together I was locked in. Good amount of drama. I enjoyed reading. I would recommend.
July 28, 2026
Sheesh
Despite the errors, the plot was good. Whew everybody had a rough childhood. I know it’s a standalone but now I want Jaylen’s background because I’m nosey.
Despite the errors, the plot was good. Whew everybody had a rough childhood. I know it’s a standalone but now I want Jaylen’s background because I’m nosey.
July 12, 2026
This was a slow-burn second chance romance done right. I loved how the story acknowledged the ambivalence that can come with starting over when there’s still so much left unsaid. Up until a certain point, I kept thinking, “I don’t buy into their romance because when are they actually going to address the past so they can move forward?” Then the conversation finally happened (in a unique way), and it was such a beautiful illustration of how a couple considering a second chance should approach healing together.
I typically dislike the secret baby trope, but I understood her reasons here and found myself extending a bit more grace, especially after learning of her upbringing. Watching KO and Dakoda build their relationship was everything, and Dae Dae was the cutest kid. Jaylen also provided some much-needed comedic relief, which I really appreciated.
I do think the plot twist and ending felt a little rushed. A few more pages to fully develop those moments would have made the ending even stronger.
Overall, this was a sweet story and a reminder that we are not defined by our mistakes. It’s what we choose to do after them that truly matters.
I typically dislike the secret baby trope, but I understood her reasons here and found myself extending a bit more grace, especially after learning of her upbringing. Watching KO and Dakoda build their relationship was everything, and Dae Dae was the cutest kid. Jaylen also provided some much-needed comedic relief, which I really appreciated.
I do think the plot twist and ending felt a little rushed. A few more pages to fully develop those moments would have made the ending even stronger.
Overall, this was a sweet story and a reminder that we are not defined by our mistakes. It’s what we choose to do after them that truly matters.
September 4, 2026
🥹🥹🥹
4.5✨after the knockout was so cute. I loved KO but honestly, Dakoda was my favorite part. I just adore kids in books. Good read for me.
4.5✨after the knockout was so cute. I loved KO but honestly, Dakoda was my favorite part. I just adore kids in books. Good read for me.
August 6, 2026
2.75
The beginning was wonderful it started off so high stakes and detailed that I was prepared for a RIDEEEEE hunny. Somewhere along the way the steam was lost and the storytelling started to suffer. In this scenario KO had the upper hand and he definitely had the right to give Lyrius the MF’ing blues I’m talking about stressing her to the point of no return cus HUHHH. Like that lady was foul and sneaky even before the secret baby. There was so little tension forreal every other thought from her was horny, and only moderately remorseful. KO stood on business for a good 30 seconds (a few chapters or so) but his folding came too quickly for me.
The big twist closer to the end of the book wasn’t even worth the hassle because why introduce an issue to resolve it in maybe 6 paragraphs lol. Like the big reveal was supposed to stun me but it came and went so quick that I was just like well uhmm okay I guess. I liked that Lyrius and him went to therapy , I liked that they committed to the work and starting fresh but I needed to see far more work like Lyrius felt guilty and undeserving but she needed more Jodeci in the desert begging type vibes cus even though she was wrong it seemed like KO was taking more responsibility for what all went wrong. Jaylen’s named was spell differently a few times and as petty as it is, it’s distracting as heck. Overall it seemed like the author started this story with a fire pen and plan but by the end it just fizzled out to nothing more than some smoke.
The beginning was wonderful it started off so high stakes and detailed that I was prepared for a RIDEEEEE hunny. Somewhere along the way the steam was lost and the storytelling started to suffer. In this scenario KO had the upper hand and he definitely had the right to give Lyrius the MF’ing blues I’m talking about stressing her to the point of no return cus HUHHH. Like that lady was foul and sneaky even before the secret baby. There was so little tension forreal every other thought from her was horny, and only moderately remorseful. KO stood on business for a good 30 seconds (a few chapters or so) but his folding came too quickly for me.
The big twist closer to the end of the book wasn’t even worth the hassle because why introduce an issue to resolve it in maybe 6 paragraphs lol. Like the big reveal was supposed to stun me but it came and went so quick that I was just like well uhmm okay I guess. I liked that Lyrius and him went to therapy , I liked that they committed to the work and starting fresh but I needed to see far more work like Lyrius felt guilty and undeserving but she needed more Jodeci in the desert begging type vibes cus even though she was wrong it seemed like KO was taking more responsibility for what all went wrong. Jaylen’s named was spell differently a few times and as petty as it is, it’s distracting as heck. Overall it seemed like the author started this story with a fire pen and plan but by the end it just fizzled out to nothing more than some smoke.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2026
First off, the way things started popping off from the beginning had me immediately locked in. 👀 Because....what you mean?! Sis you did what?! I felt so bad for KO and was surprised by how much time went by.
In a way, I'm glad the storm forced everything into motion. There was still too much unresolved between them, along with another secret she had been carrying that needed to come out. While KO was understandably hesitant at first, I loved how he ultimately stepped up to the plate and handled business.
Overall, I enjoyed the journey, especially the moments that had me smiling and saying “awww.” There's just something about a second chance romance with a redemption arc that gets me every time.
In a way, I'm glad the storm forced everything into motion. There was still too much unresolved between them, along with another secret she had been carrying that needed to come out. While KO was understandably hesitant at first, I loved how he ultimately stepped up to the plate and handled business.
Overall, I enjoyed the journey, especially the moments that had me smiling and saying “awww.” There's just something about a second chance romance with a redemption arc that gets me every time.
July 13, 2026
Blossom... you stay on my automatic read list for a reason. The minute you drop a book, everything else gets pushed to the side. And once again, you understood the assignment.
Second chance romance? Check.
Secret baby? Check.
Now put those together with characters you can't help but root for, and I was completely locked in.
KO and Lyrius took me on an emotional ride. I was frustrated, I was heartbroken, and I was rooting for them at the same time. What I appreciated most was that this wasn't a story where everyone pretended the past didn't happen. They had to face it, work through it, and earn their way back to each other.
Then there's KO. Baby, he stole every scene he was in. And Jaylen had me laughing exactly when I needed the break.
One of my favorite takeaways from this book was the reminder that one bad decision doesn't define an entire person. That message stayed with me long after I finished reading.
The ending moved a little faster than I wanted, but it wasn't enough to take away from how much I loved this story. This one had me smiling, emotional, and completely invested from beginning to end. Dakota and Lyrius forever.
Second chance romance? Check.
Secret baby? Check.
Now put those together with characters you can't help but root for, and I was completely locked in.
KO and Lyrius took me on an emotional ride. I was frustrated, I was heartbroken, and I was rooting for them at the same time. What I appreciated most was that this wasn't a story where everyone pretended the past didn't happen. They had to face it, work through it, and earn their way back to each other.
Then there's KO. Baby, he stole every scene he was in. And Jaylen had me laughing exactly when I needed the break.
One of my favorite takeaways from this book was the reminder that one bad decision doesn't define an entire person. That message stayed with me long after I finished reading.
The ending moved a little faster than I wanted, but it wasn't enough to take away from how much I loved this story. This one had me smiling, emotional, and completely invested from beginning to end. Dakota and Lyrius forever.
July 23, 2026
4.5⭐
I was all-in with Dakota and Lyrius from the beginning. I knew they would find themselves orbiting one another even after the truth came out. I didn't read what the book was about because I've come to know I'll enjoy an A. Blossom story. KO and Lyrius were both products of broken homes/the system and for her to do what she did... I get it, but I still think she should have taken a chance to reveal their truth. Little Dae-Dae was absolutely hilarious and added so much with the "cute-kid- factor." If you love a second chance, hidden child, unexpected twists, you'll enjoy this one! Happy Reading Y'all!💋
I was all-in with Dakota and Lyrius from the beginning. I knew they would find themselves orbiting one another even after the truth came out. I didn't read what the book was about because I've come to know I'll enjoy an A. Blossom story. KO and Lyrius were both products of broken homes/the system and for her to do what she did... I get it, but I still think she should have taken a chance to reveal their truth. Little Dae-Dae was absolutely hilarious and added so much with the "cute-kid- factor." If you love a second chance, hidden child, unexpected twists, you'll enjoy this one! Happy Reading Y'all!💋
July 12, 2026
COOKIES REVIEW 🍪
AYYYYEEE BLOSSOM! You are on of the authors I drop EVERYTHING and READ. I AM SO GLAD I DID. YOU never DISAPPOINT! As a girl who just loves love! Ahhhh! This book made me smile real big! It had both of my favorite tropes! Second chance and secret baby! Ugh! This was everything! Dakota and Lyrius FOREVER!
AYYYYEEE BLOSSOM! You are on of the authors I drop EVERYTHING and READ. I AM SO GLAD I DID. YOU never DISAPPOINT! As a girl who just loves love! Ahhhh! This book made me smile real big! It had both of my favorite tropes! Second chance and secret baby! Ugh! This was everything! Dakota and Lyrius FOREVER!
September 6, 2026
The synopsis for this book had me so intrigued. I had to find out how a woman who set a man up to get robbed and said man were going to get a second chance at love especially with the secret she was harboring. This was my first read by A. Blossom and it won't be my last! The way she weaved this story of redemption, forgiveness and love was amazing. Lyruis was a FMC that you had every reason to hate but still found yourself rooting for her because beneath all of her bad decisions was someone who had a good heart. KO got his heart broken by Lyrius and never recovered. When she came back into his life during that hurricane he tried to fight it and hang tough but it became clear that he loved her far more than he wanted to hate her. Such an amazing and unique story!
July 11, 2026
I dislike secret baby stories, but I was actually enjoying this one… at first. Lyrius is a nagging ass baby mama. Gahdamn.
KO was right. Lyrius could’ve told him about his son, especially after finding out he hunted down the people who came for him. They couldn’t have been that damn dangerous.
Speaking of this heaux… she worked my mf nerves! Damn! A hurricane just passed and it was a disaster. She definitely needed him, their son needed him. Then tries to be that “I don’t need you baby mama”. Like do they ever think about the child? Or they just think about their feelings…Crazy thing about it, she’s the one who betrayed him but she mad…
She was trying to control every interaction between KO and his son. Every time KO wanted to do something as a father, she was talking about, “You don’t have to do that.” Girl… you broke. Shut up. Rich baby daddy can do whatever he wants for his child. Sometimes she needed to think before she opened her mouth. Idk what her angle was.
Dae and KO can be having a conversation, and her aggy ass would jump in if she felt Dae Dae was being aggravating toward his daddy. Girl we know you his mama. Let him aggravate his daddy, his daddy ain’t tripping. Then she nagged when he wanted to be with his child that she hid for 5 years. Asking why he at her apartment. Not to see yo naggin ass. Then she nagged because he paid her bills for up to 6 months. She was mad about that. Who the hell questions why their rich baby daddy wants to make sure his kid has lights and somewhere to live? She was making EVERYTHING an issue.
Some of the conversations just felt childish to me, because of Lyrius. So, this one wasn’t even the secret baby that annoyed me. I understood why she ran. It was her. I think in almost every secret baby, it’s always a “you didn’t have to do that” baby mama, when the father tries to lessen the load. Yes he did! That’s why yo slow ass went to find him.
Another thing that drove me crazy was the amount of cut-off sentences. It happened so often that it started making my eye twitch.
KO was right. Lyrius could’ve told him about his son, especially after finding out he hunted down the people who came for him. They couldn’t have been that damn dangerous.
Speaking of this heaux… she worked my mf nerves! Damn! A hurricane just passed and it was a disaster. She definitely needed him, their son needed him. Then tries to be that “I don’t need you baby mama”. Like do they ever think about the child? Or they just think about their feelings…Crazy thing about it, she’s the one who betrayed him but she mad…
She was trying to control every interaction between KO and his son. Every time KO wanted to do something as a father, she was talking about, “You don’t have to do that.” Girl… you broke. Shut up. Rich baby daddy can do whatever he wants for his child. Sometimes she needed to think before she opened her mouth. Idk what her angle was.
Dae and KO can be having a conversation, and her aggy ass would jump in if she felt Dae Dae was being aggravating toward his daddy. Girl we know you his mama. Let him aggravate his daddy, his daddy ain’t tripping. Then she nagged when he wanted to be with his child that she hid for 5 years. Asking why he at her apartment. Not to see yo naggin ass. Then she nagged because he paid her bills for up to 6 months. She was mad about that. Who the hell questions why their rich baby daddy wants to make sure his kid has lights and somewhere to live? She was making EVERYTHING an issue.
Some of the conversations just felt childish to me, because of Lyrius. So, this one wasn’t even the secret baby that annoyed me. I understood why she ran. It was her. I think in almost every secret baby, it’s always a “you didn’t have to do that” baby mama, when the father tries to lessen the load. Yes he did! That’s why yo slow ass went to find him.
Another thing that drove me crazy was the amount of cut-off sentences. It happened so often that it started making my eye twitch.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2026
I don’t know how to feel about this book. I want to start off by saying I don’t really like that second chance romances because most of the time they broke up for a reason and it was a valid reason. With that being said, yeah, I understand she had something to do with him getting shot and everything, but I really believe that she loved him and she was stuck between a rock and a hard place. This book made me wanna freaking cry, especially when they were going to counseling and she was saying the stuff that she was saying. I liked how they got to where they are and getting married because of facing their issues and going to counseling. It broke my heart and made me wanna cry reading his point of view and how much distain he had for her like there was no sign that he really actually truly loved her and he was just mad like I really felt like he hated her. He didn’t like pine over her and be like I loved her once or I need her or look at her in a certain way, during his POV he was just always talking about how much he hated her which granted he had every right to feel that way, but I didn’t feel like he cared her. I felt like he was more mad at her than anything.
I don’t like how we didn’t get to the bottom of why those people were doing what they were doing and what they truly wanted. They kept telling him to throw the fight but there was no I had money riding on this or whatever like that was a little bit consistent. Was he a target because he had money or was he targeted because he wanted him to lose fights, but he wasn’t losing those things so you were losing money like that could’ve been explained better it fell flat. I also don’t like how none of them died. Victoria did all that crap she didn’t get an ass whooping or nothing. It just felt unfinished me and I didn’t like it.
I don’t like how we didn’t get to the bottom of why those people were doing what they were doing and what they truly wanted. They kept telling him to throw the fight but there was no I had money riding on this or whatever like that was a little bit consistent. Was he a target because he had money or was he targeted because he wanted him to lose fights, but he wasn’t losing those things so you were losing money like that could’ve been explained better it fell flat. I also don’t like how none of them died. Victoria did all that crap she didn’t get an ass whooping or nothing. It just felt unfinished me and I didn’t like it.
July 11, 2026
I may be a tad bit biased because I love A Blossom but this was a perfect second chance romance.
After a night where things go horribly wrong, our FMC is forced to leave her home and the man that she loves with no idea what the future holds. 6 years later a hurricane forces her to flee right back into the city that she never thought she would ever return to. Not only did she never think she would return to that city, but she also never thought she would ever be in the same room with the only man who has ever had her heart again. This isn’t a happy reunion because our FMC has so much that she has to answer for.
This was just a beautiful ass story but I’m not surprised I expect nothing less from A Blossom. I appreciate a story where I love both the FMC and the MMC. I loved Lyrius no matter how flawed she was. I loved Dakota “KO” because of how he handled the pain that was caused to him. He didn’t run from he processed through it, he healed from it, and he didn’t hold it over Lyrius’ head even though you couldn’t blame him if he did.
Sometimes your heart doesn’t get the memo when the person you love the most causes you the worst pain. Your body then becomes a battlefield when your brain is telling you to let go but your heart refuses to follow. Do you listen to your head? Or can you accept that a bad decision doesn’t always equal a bad person?
After a night where things go horribly wrong, our FMC is forced to leave her home and the man that she loves with no idea what the future holds. 6 years later a hurricane forces her to flee right back into the city that she never thought she would ever return to. Not only did she never think she would return to that city, but she also never thought she would ever be in the same room with the only man who has ever had her heart again. This isn’t a happy reunion because our FMC has so much that she has to answer for.
This was just a beautiful ass story but I’m not surprised I expect nothing less from A Blossom. I appreciate a story where I love both the FMC and the MMC. I loved Lyrius no matter how flawed she was. I loved Dakota “KO” because of how he handled the pain that was caused to him. He didn’t run from he processed through it, he healed from it, and he didn’t hold it over Lyrius’ head even though you couldn’t blame him if he did.
Sometimes your heart doesn’t get the memo when the person you love the most causes you the worst pain. Your body then becomes a battlefield when your brain is telling you to let go but your heart refuses to follow. Do you listen to your head? Or can you accept that a bad decision doesn’t always equal a bad person?
July 22, 2026
His kryptonite.....
Mrs.A. Blossom, it's been quite some time since I graced one of your books. I see that you are still an all "A" student because the assignment was completed. I have been noticing a trend in the last few books I read, having foster kids as main characters. I am all aboard because family doesn't mean we share the same DNA. Families are formed when one person can love another person unconditionally as if they birthed that individual. Dakota and Jaylen were adopted at the right moment in their lives. One thing for certain and two things for sure Jaylen didn't play about Dakota. The protectiveness just kept flowing when Lyruis entered the picture. Dakota was head over heels in love with her. She was his kryptonite, and he took advantage of its power. It was a plethora of explosive secrets among the two of them. One of those secrets bonded them forever. He was well worth the tension. He opened a few eyes and unburied some feelings.
Ladies and gents, this is another masterpiece, so I highly suggest you download it. I didn't want to give away too many spoilers. The plot is two strands twisted that have secrets popping out like popcorn. It is well written and worth reading.
P.S. I am glad you are staying in Azalea for a bit. I would love to read Jaylen's story because he is a wild one.
Mrs.A. Blossom, it's been quite some time since I graced one of your books. I see that you are still an all "A" student because the assignment was completed. I have been noticing a trend in the last few books I read, having foster kids as main characters. I am all aboard because family doesn't mean we share the same DNA. Families are formed when one person can love another person unconditionally as if they birthed that individual. Dakota and Jaylen were adopted at the right moment in their lives. One thing for certain and two things for sure Jaylen didn't play about Dakota. The protectiveness just kept flowing when Lyruis entered the picture. Dakota was head over heels in love with her. She was his kryptonite, and he took advantage of its power. It was a plethora of explosive secrets among the two of them. One of those secrets bonded them forever. He was well worth the tension. He opened a few eyes and unburied some feelings.
Ladies and gents, this is another masterpiece, so I highly suggest you download it. I didn't want to give away too many spoilers. The plot is two strands twisted that have secrets popping out like popcorn. It is well written and worth reading.
P.S. I am glad you are staying in Azalea for a bit. I would love to read Jaylen's story because he is a wild one.
August 28, 2026
3⭐️s | A Few Jabs Short of a Knockout
After the Knockout was a quick, fast-paced read that grabbed me from the beginning, but somewhere along the way, the story started to fizzle because it became pretty predictable. Yes, there were a few twists, but I needed more depth from the characters, especially Lyrius and KO. Their connection stayed a little too surface-level for me when there was definitely room to dig deeper.
This was truly a case of the heart wants what the heart wants, because Lyrius and KO were going to find their way back to each other regardless. 😂 We got little glimpses of KO and Jaylen being thugged out, but not enough to fully convince me they get down like that Fareal. I needed a little more pressure behind that storyline.
Dae Dae was easily my favorite part of the book. 🥹 I loved how the story captured the essence of a son simply needing his father, while also showing a father who genuinely wanted to step up and be present. That relationship gave the story some of the emotional depth I was looking for elsewhere.
Overall, it was an enjoyable quick read, but I needed more layers, more character development, and a knockout punch that never fully landed.
After the Knockout was a quick, fast-paced read that grabbed me from the beginning, but somewhere along the way, the story started to fizzle because it became pretty predictable. Yes, there were a few twists, but I needed more depth from the characters, especially Lyrius and KO. Their connection stayed a little too surface-level for me when there was definitely room to dig deeper.
This was truly a case of the heart wants what the heart wants, because Lyrius and KO were going to find their way back to each other regardless. 😂 We got little glimpses of KO and Jaylen being thugged out, but not enough to fully convince me they get down like that Fareal. I needed a little more pressure behind that storyline.
Dae Dae was easily my favorite part of the book. 🥹 I loved how the story captured the essence of a son simply needing his father, while also showing a father who genuinely wanted to step up and be present. That relationship gave the story some of the emotional depth I was looking for elsewhere.
Overall, it was an enjoyable quick read, but I needed more layers, more character development, and a knockout punch that never fully landed.
September 4, 2026
- this book started off so good and I was latched onto the story the first couple of chapters. Now what threw me off was how fast they rekindled things and how KO took more accountability for what happened to him instead of lyrius taking it considering she was behind him being setup. Honestly I didn’t think KO would take her back knowing that he almost lost his life because of her but he took her back too quickly in my opinion.
- what would have made this book a 5star is it being longer and us getting the beginning plus more of a detailed background story of how she got involved with those type of people. Then us being able to read in more detail about KO getting back on his feet and getting revenge. Then them seeing each other again in the storm and still having that push and pull and him being more resistant on trusting her again. Like him saying that he understands they have a son together but he is going to be there for the son without getting too involved with her and then her winning him back and her taking more accountability. This would have been a great enemies to lovers type of book if that was the case.
- what would have made this book a 5star is it being longer and us getting the beginning plus more of a detailed background story of how she got involved with those type of people. Then us being able to read in more detail about KO getting back on his feet and getting revenge. Then them seeing each other again in the storm and still having that push and pull and him being more resistant on trusting her again. Like him saying that he understands they have a son together but he is going to be there for the son without getting too involved with her and then her winning him back and her taking more accountability. This would have been a great enemies to lovers type of book if that was the case.
July 11, 2026
This book had me in a chokehold
I devoured this book!! It was absolutely amazing. KO and Lyrius run into each other after many years during a hurricane. They end up stranded together and KO learns that he has a five year old son. He is rightfully livid but determined to be involved in his son’s life. He is also leery of Lyrius because of her past discretions. He doesn’t feel like he can trust her but his heart still wants her. Lyrius still loves KO but she understands his anger and feels like she deserves it. Although she wants her man back, she doesn’t feel worthy. KO and Lyrius have to deal with their trauma if they’re going to be the family that they both want.
Listen…this book sent me through all the feels!! I was mad at Lyrius and then mad at the circumstances. Despite it all, I still rooted for this couple. I felt their love come off the pages of the book. Pops said it best…”don’t confuse a bad decision with a bad person”. That wrapped it all up for me. Kudos on a fabulous book. Five smoking hot stars⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!! I’ll definitely reread this!!
I devoured this book!! It was absolutely amazing. KO and Lyrius run into each other after many years during a hurricane. They end up stranded together and KO learns that he has a five year old son. He is rightfully livid but determined to be involved in his son’s life. He is also leery of Lyrius because of her past discretions. He doesn’t feel like he can trust her but his heart still wants her. Lyrius still loves KO but she understands his anger and feels like she deserves it. Although she wants her man back, she doesn’t feel worthy. KO and Lyrius have to deal with their trauma if they’re going to be the family that they both want.
Listen…this book sent me through all the feels!! I was mad at Lyrius and then mad at the circumstances. Despite it all, I still rooted for this couple. I felt their love come off the pages of the book. Pops said it best…”don’t confuse a bad decision with a bad person”. That wrapped it all up for me. Kudos on a fabulous book. Five smoking hot stars⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!! I’ll definitely reread this!!
August 15, 2026
KO and Lyrius!!
I enjoy reading second chance books and love secret baby books so I was excited about reading this book with both tropes in one. I was not disappointed one bit. KO and Lyrius separated when she ran away after he found out she had unknowingly set him up for death. A hurricane brings her back to town and that's when KO finds out about the secret she left with. KO was still carrying hate for Lyrius after what she did, but the heart wants what the heart wants. It isn't long before the chemistry between them combusts again. The forgiveness and healing that they went through was a great testament to the love that they had for each other. I loved everything included in this book from their connection to cutie-pie Dakoda as well as the secrets and drama. I also enjoyed Pops and crazy Jaylen with all of his shenanigans. I'm hoping the author will give him his own book. 😂😂 Great sports romance/ forced proximity/second chance/secret baby that I encourage everyone to read!!
I enjoy reading second chance books and love secret baby books so I was excited about reading this book with both tropes in one. I was not disappointed one bit. KO and Lyrius separated when she ran away after he found out she had unknowingly set him up for death. A hurricane brings her back to town and that's when KO finds out about the secret she left with. KO was still carrying hate for Lyrius after what she did, but the heart wants what the heart wants. It isn't long before the chemistry between them combusts again. The forgiveness and healing that they went through was a great testament to the love that they had for each other. I loved everything included in this book from their connection to cutie-pie Dakoda as well as the secrets and drama. I also enjoyed Pops and crazy Jaylen with all of his shenanigans. I'm hoping the author will give him his own book. 😂😂 Great sports romance/ forced proximity/second chance/secret baby that I encourage everyone to read!!
July 13, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Stars
This book had me hooked from the very first chapter! If you love second-chance romance, secret baby, forced proximity, and enough lies to keep you questioning everything, this one is a must-read.
The chemistry between the main characters never disappeared, even after everything they went through. Watching them confront old wounds, unravel painful secrets, and find their way back to each other was emotional, frustrating, and incredibly satisfying. The secret baby added the perfect amount of tension, while the forced proximity made every interaction impossible to ignore.
There were moments that had me swooning, moments that had me yelling at the characters, and moments that genuinely pulled at my heart. The redemption, forgiveness, and undeniable love made every twist worth it.
If you're looking for a romance packed with heartbreak, healing, family, and unforgettable chemistry, add this one to your TBR immediately. This was an easy ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ read for me!
This book had me hooked from the very first chapter! If you love second-chance romance, secret baby, forced proximity, and enough lies to keep you questioning everything, this one is a must-read.
The chemistry between the main characters never disappeared, even after everything they went through. Watching them confront old wounds, unravel painful secrets, and find their way back to each other was emotional, frustrating, and incredibly satisfying. The secret baby added the perfect amount of tension, while the forced proximity made every interaction impossible to ignore.
There were moments that had me swooning, moments that had me yelling at the characters, and moments that genuinely pulled at my heart. The redemption, forgiveness, and undeniable love made every twist worth it.
If you're looking for a romance packed with heartbreak, healing, family, and unforgettable chemistry, add this one to your TBR immediately. This was an easy ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ read for me!
July 18, 2026
Loved it!
🥊📚 After the Knockout by A. Blossom 📚🥊
Listen… A. Blossom came in swinging and DID NOT MISS! 😮💨👏🏽
A love story as only A. Blossom could write.
This book was EVERYTHING! There is absolutely NO WAY you’re making it through this story without feeling every emotion possible. One minute you’re smiling, the next you’re clutching your chest, and before you know it, you’re looking at the book like, “Now why would you do me like this?!” 😂😭❤️
This is, by far, one of my favorite books by A. Blossom. And if there’s one thing she’s gonna do, it’s write a GOOD sports romance! Every. Single. Time. 🏆🏀🥊
Baby, this wasn’t just a knockout because of the title… it was a knockout because it knocked me clean into my feelings! 👊🏽💥
If sports romance is your thing—or if you’re just looking for a love story that’ll have your emotions doing backflips—go ahead and add this one to your TBR. You can thank me later. 😉📖✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ #PagezAndPlotTwistz
🥊📚 After the Knockout by A. Blossom 📚🥊
Listen… A. Blossom came in swinging and DID NOT MISS! 😮💨👏🏽
A love story as only A. Blossom could write.
This book was EVERYTHING! There is absolutely NO WAY you’re making it through this story without feeling every emotion possible. One minute you’re smiling, the next you’re clutching your chest, and before you know it, you’re looking at the book like, “Now why would you do me like this?!” 😂😭❤️
This is, by far, one of my favorite books by A. Blossom. And if there’s one thing she’s gonna do, it’s write a GOOD sports romance! Every. Single. Time. 🏆🏀🥊
Baby, this wasn’t just a knockout because of the title… it was a knockout because it knocked me clean into my feelings! 👊🏽💥
If sports romance is your thing—or if you’re just looking for a love story that’ll have your emotions doing backflips—go ahead and add this one to your TBR. You can thank me later. 😉📖✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ #PagezAndPlotTwistz
July 30, 2026
After the knockout
I liked that this couple were able to get their happy ever after especially after all the bad stuff that happened to them. I liked that therapy was a part of their reconnection and fresh start, but I wish more of those moments had happened on page. I loved Dakoda’s character. He was the cutest five year old and he was all about his daddy once he met him.
I do feel like the story kind of dragged on until about the 70 percent mark and the climax was over before it really began and was pretty anticlimactic to me. I also feel like some of the minor details were inconsistent but the inconsistencies started adding up.
All in all, I didn’t love the book or hate it, but I found it hard to connect with the main characters for majority of the book, which could have made the book seem longer to me than it actually was. I am still a fan of this author and will continue to support her work.
I liked that this couple were able to get their happy ever after especially after all the bad stuff that happened to them. I liked that therapy was a part of their reconnection and fresh start, but I wish more of those moments had happened on page. I loved Dakoda’s character. He was the cutest five year old and he was all about his daddy once he met him.
I do feel like the story kind of dragged on until about the 70 percent mark and the climax was over before it really began and was pretty anticlimactic to me. I also feel like some of the minor details were inconsistent but the inconsistencies started adding up.
All in all, I didn’t love the book or hate it, but I found it hard to connect with the main characters for majority of the book, which could have made the book seem longer to me than it actually was. I am still a fan of this author and will continue to support her work.
August 21, 2026
Second chance romance AND a secret baby trope?
Yeah, I’m eating this up. And not just any secret baby, this little boy is FIVE years old walking around looking like his daddy 😭. The beginning was a little slow for me and I started losing interest, but once the dialogue between Dakota and Lyrius started feeling more natural and Dakota found out Dae Dae was his son, I was reeled right back in.
I loved how Dakota was angry and didn’t want to cave to his feelings for Lyrius, but you could still tell he had a soft spot for her. Those feelings never went anywhere for either of them, and the romantic and sexual tension definitely showed it. The moment with him comforting his son during the storm was so sweet too.
I also understood his pain and what hurt him most. It had me wondering how different everything would’ve been if Lyrius stayed. I’m glad they still got their happy ending and their family despite how painful their relationship started.
Yeah, I’m eating this up. And not just any secret baby, this little boy is FIVE years old walking around looking like his daddy 😭. The beginning was a little slow for me and I started losing interest, but once the dialogue between Dakota and Lyrius started feeling more natural and Dakota found out Dae Dae was his son, I was reeled right back in.
I loved how Dakota was angry and didn’t want to cave to his feelings for Lyrius, but you could still tell he had a soft spot for her. Those feelings never went anywhere for either of them, and the romantic and sexual tension definitely showed it. The moment with him comforting his son during the storm was so sweet too.
I also understood his pain and what hurt him most. It had me wondering how different everything would’ve been if Lyrius stayed. I’m glad they still got their happy ending and their family despite how painful their relationship started.
July 21, 2026
Sometimes Love just Knocks you out!
After the Knockout was my first book by A. Blossom, and it did not disappoint! I really liked her fresh twist on the sports romance trope.
I loved seeing inner-city issues woven into a masterful story, especially one that didn’t rely on the usual "bang bang, shoot 'em up" tropes. lol. It was so refreshing to see Black men depicted actively tapping into their emotions and healing to become better versions of themselves. The emphasis on doing the internal work, not just for your partner, but for yourself, was top tier.
…And that Dakoda was an absolute hoot! He represented his daddy to the fullest. Even though he was a secret from his father at first, I loved how Lyrius still let him know who his dad was from afar. Ultimately, I just loved seeing Lyrius and KO decide to get it together and love on each other fully.
After the Knockout was my first book by A. Blossom, and it did not disappoint! I really liked her fresh twist on the sports romance trope.
I loved seeing inner-city issues woven into a masterful story, especially one that didn’t rely on the usual "bang bang, shoot 'em up" tropes. lol. It was so refreshing to see Black men depicted actively tapping into their emotions and healing to become better versions of themselves. The emphasis on doing the internal work, not just for your partner, but for yourself, was top tier.
…And that Dakoda was an absolute hoot! He represented his daddy to the fullest. Even though he was a secret from his father at first, I loved how Lyrius still let him know who his dad was from afar. Ultimately, I just loved seeing Lyrius and KO decide to get it together and love on each other fully.
July 16, 2026
MUST READ !
I don’t like second chance romance or secret baby trope but I devoured this read comes to turn out I only like it when certain authors write it and ms.Blossom did her thing with this one . Getting to see ko & lyrius where they began , what happened to cause a life shift & how the found each other way back . I definitely understood why lyrius kept it secret and dipped , made alot of sense when you hear her back story . I loved the growth they both showed and how they quickly figure things out for lil Ko , seeing ko go through the emotions and fighting his true feelings why lyrius is writing herself off from a happy future . The twist I was waiting on I kinda had an idea but not the way it happened . The spice scenes were 🔥🔥
I don’t like second chance romance or secret baby trope but I devoured this read comes to turn out I only like it when certain authors write it and ms.Blossom did her thing with this one . Getting to see ko & lyrius where they began , what happened to cause a life shift & how the found each other way back . I definitely understood why lyrius kept it secret and dipped , made alot of sense when you hear her back story . I loved the growth they both showed and how they quickly figure things out for lil Ko , seeing ko go through the emotions and fighting his true feelings why lyrius is writing herself off from a happy future . The twist I was waiting on I kinda had an idea but not the way it happened . The spice scenes were 🔥🔥
July 22, 2026
Lyrius walked into the eye of the storm and into destiny.
KO & Lyrius’ story is one about forgiveness and redemption. Lyrius made mistakes out of desperation and survival and it cost the both of them but she never shied away from accountability. Besides his love for Lyrius I believe that was what allowed KO to find that forgiveness. The most beautiful moment in KO and Lyrius’ story is when they both decided to commit to their healing. They didn’t just do it for each other and Dekoda, they did it for themselves as individuals. Both of them realizing they deserved the love they had for each other and the life they were building. Life had dealt Lyrius and KO a rough hand from the very beginning and, for better or worse, that lead them to each other.
KO & Lyrius’ story is one about forgiveness and redemption. Lyrius made mistakes out of desperation and survival and it cost the both of them but she never shied away from accountability. Besides his love for Lyrius I believe that was what allowed KO to find that forgiveness. The most beautiful moment in KO and Lyrius’ story is when they both decided to commit to their healing. They didn’t just do it for each other and Dekoda, they did it for themselves as individuals. Both of them realizing they deserved the love they had for each other and the life they were building. Life had dealt Lyrius and KO a rough hand from the very beginning and, for better or worse, that lead them to each other.
September 20, 2026
LOVED LOVED LOVED this book. It was sooo cute! KO and Lyrius were put through the ringer… pun intended. I just knew shit hit the fan when little Dakoda yelled out that KO was his daddy. KO and Lyrius dealt with navigating co-parenting while also trying to get over betrayal. The chemistry between the two couldn’t be denied. I was happy that KO didn’t waste time playing once he realized Lyrius and being a family was what he wanted. Their first date was the cutest. And he got a therapist to help them work through their issues… that might have been the sexiest thing I ever read in a book! Nia was my type of friend; protective and hilarious. Jaylen was also very funny. This one gotta make it to the shelf!
July 11, 2026
The knockout warmed my heart!
Lyrius and Dakota were two pretty messed-up people who were absolutely crazy about each other, but Lyrius got tangled up with some vultures who couldn't care less who they hurt—just trying to rip people off and mess with folks for a quick buck. Their greed is what led Lyrius to find the love of her life and nearly blew both their worlds apart. Her totally unforgivable move shattered two hearts that were super connected. No matter how hard Dakota tried, he just couldn't shake the love he had for Lyrius. A. Blossom seriously doesn't miss—she's has this incredible talent for bringing a story to life that's got me grinning and kicking my feet.
Lyrius and Dakota were two pretty messed-up people who were absolutely crazy about each other, but Lyrius got tangled up with some vultures who couldn't care less who they hurt—just trying to rip people off and mess with folks for a quick buck. Their greed is what led Lyrius to find the love of her life and nearly blew both their worlds apart. Her totally unforgivable move shattered two hearts that were super connected. No matter how hard Dakota tried, he just couldn't shake the love he had for Lyrius. A. Blossom seriously doesn't miss—she's has this incredible talent for bringing a story to life that's got me grinning and kicking my feet.
July 15, 2026
Their Biggest Fight
This couple had to fight for love time after time. Lyrius' intentions towards Dakota in the very beginning wasn’t traditional. Hell, it wasn't real. But that thing called love can sneak up on you when you're being treated right, by the right one and forgot the mission. Dakota fell in love without knowing the cost. It cost more than his relationship. It almost cost his life and hers. Mother Nature helped reunite these two plus some but it was not pretty. The circumstances or the reunion. Looking beyond the two of them to who's most important actually helped in trying for forgiveness and a second chance. Just when you're on track, old enemies resurface and try to KO what you've built again. Are they successful? Journey in these pages and fall in love with Lil Dakoda!! I did!
This couple had to fight for love time after time. Lyrius' intentions towards Dakota in the very beginning wasn’t traditional. Hell, it wasn't real. But that thing called love can sneak up on you when you're being treated right, by the right one and forgot the mission. Dakota fell in love without knowing the cost. It cost more than his relationship. It almost cost his life and hers. Mother Nature helped reunite these two plus some but it was not pretty. The circumstances or the reunion. Looking beyond the two of them to who's most important actually helped in trying for forgiveness and a second chance. Just when you're on track, old enemies resurface and try to KO what you've built again. Are they successful? Journey in these pages and fall in love with Lil Dakoda!! I did!
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