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Worth the Fight #6
Stacked Up
Opposites attract in this seductive novel from the author of Against the Cage (“Funny, steamy, scorching.”—Toni Aleo), with a chiseled MMA fighter falling for a single mom who could use a real man in her corner.
Working two jobs to support her infant daughter is harder than anything Penny Richards has ever done, but it sure beats living under the rules of her stepfather, a television preacher who demands a picture-perfect family. And if Penny hadn’t struck out on her own, she never would have met Travis Calhoun. The intensely physical heavyweight brawler has a way of drawing out her wild side. But Travis lives fast, with no responsibilities—and that just isn’t for Penny.
Most of the women in Travis’s circle wear tight clothes, high heels, and tons of makeup—not pearls or plaid headbands. But once he works past Penny’s inhibitions, Travis discovers a kindred spirit who longs to trust someone with her body, and her secrets. Still, Travis can’t help but wonder if this rich girl is just slumming it before she returns to her privileged life. Now it’s up to Penny to prove that she wants her hard-edged, hard-loving fighter just the way he is.
Praise for the Worth the Fight series
“Holy hot MMA fighter, I wanted more. Five stars all the way!”—New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Toni Aleo
“A steamy and fun romance that will leave readers begging for more. Sidney Halston is an author to watch!”—New York Times bestselling author Cherry Adair, on Against the Cage
“Halston’s new series opener creates an organic and sensual dynamic between Jack and Chrissy that makes an easy buy-in for readers.”—Library Journal (starred review), on Against the Cage
“Sidney Halston has another knockout with her latest release in the Worth the Fight series. Full Contact is a heavyweight contender in the world of MMA romances.”—Smut Book Junkie Book Reviews
“If you love cracktastic drama and sexy times, this is for you!”—RT Book Reviews, on Fighting Dirty
Includes a special message from the editor, as well as an excerpt from another Loveswept title.
Working two jobs to support her infant daughter is harder than anything Penny Richards has ever done, but it sure beats living under the rules of her stepfather, a television preacher who demands a picture-perfect family. And if Penny hadn’t struck out on her own, she never would have met Travis Calhoun. The intensely physical heavyweight brawler has a way of drawing out her wild side. But Travis lives fast, with no responsibilities—and that just isn’t for Penny.
Most of the women in Travis’s circle wear tight clothes, high heels, and tons of makeup—not pearls or plaid headbands. But once he works past Penny’s inhibitions, Travis discovers a kindred spirit who longs to trust someone with her body, and her secrets. Still, Travis can’t help but wonder if this rich girl is just slumming it before she returns to her privileged life. Now it’s up to Penny to prove that she wants her hard-edged, hard-loving fighter just the way he is.
Praise for the Worth the Fight series
“Holy hot MMA fighter, I wanted more. Five stars all the way!”—New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Toni Aleo
“A steamy and fun romance that will leave readers begging for more. Sidney Halston is an author to watch!”—New York Times bestselling author Cherry Adair, on Against the Cage
“Halston’s new series opener creates an organic and sensual dynamic between Jack and Chrissy that makes an easy buy-in for readers.”—Library Journal (starred review), on Against the Cage
“Sidney Halston has another knockout with her latest release in the Worth the Fight series. Full Contact is a heavyweight contender in the world of MMA romances.”—Smut Book Junkie Book Reviews
“If you love cracktastic drama and sexy times, this is for you!”—RT Book Reviews, on Fighting Dirty
Includes a special message from the editor, as well as an excerpt from another Loveswept title.
251 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 31, 2016
54 people are currently reading
943 people want to read
About the author
Sidney Halston
23 books1,140 followersJeanette Escudero worked as an attorney before picking up a pen at thirty years old to write something other than legal briefs. Being published fulfilled a dream and gave her an outlet for her imaginative, romantic side. Writing as Sidney Halston, she is the USA Today bestselling author of the Panic series, the Worth the Fight series, the Iron-Clad Security novels, and the Seeing Red duet. In addition to writing and reading, Jeanette has a passion for travel and adventure. She and her family have been to the Galapagos Islands and have hiked Yellowstone, the Shenandoah mountains, and the Great Smoky Mountains. Born in Miami, Florida, to Cuban parents, she currently lives in South Florida with her husband and her three children, in whom she’s instilled a love of nature and an appreciation for the planet. For more information visit www.sidneyhalston.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 214 reviews
March 28, 2016
Before I even start my review I just need to say how sad I am that this series is ending. I fell in love with these characters from the first book and since then I've been totally invested in their lives so I can't imagine not having another book to look forward to from them. I will be on the look out for Sidney Halston's next project though, because I know it will be amazing.
Penny is on the run with her little daughter. She had to leave her past life of strict rules, and wealth to protect her, then two day old, daughter. Now she lives paycheck to paycheck and struggles to pay her rent. But if that's the cost of saving her daughter from a life like the one she had to grow up in, she'll do it.
When she started working as a bartender she meets Travis, the smooth talking cowboy, MMA fighter. He doesn't hold back in showing her that he's interested, but she has her daughter to think about and getting involved with a man isn't on her priority list. When her past catches up to her though, Travis is the one she runs to for help and she realizes that maybe getting involved isn't such a bad thing.
Penny and Travis were amazing characters that I loved getting to know more about. For the past few books Penny has been making me curious about her situation, and now that I finally go to find out what was going on with her I liked her even more. She was such a strong mama to leave the only home she knew to take care of her daughter, which I really admired about her.
We got to see Travis grow a lot in this book, and I really enjoyed that. He was the playboy type that flirted and didn't seem to have a care in the world, but then as the book went on the more caring side of him came out. Travis with Belle melted my heart and my panties. Seriously, a hot guy with an adorable little girl? Who wouldn't want to jump on that?
Bottom line, this book and this series is absolutely amazing. Penny and Travis were great together and getting to see them work through their own issues to be better for one another was fantastic. I hope everyone will at least give this series a chance because I really think many will like it.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Penny is on the run with her little daughter. She had to leave her past life of strict rules, and wealth to protect her, then two day old, daughter. Now she lives paycheck to paycheck and struggles to pay her rent. But if that's the cost of saving her daughter from a life like the one she had to grow up in, she'll do it.
When she started working as a bartender she meets Travis, the smooth talking cowboy, MMA fighter. He doesn't hold back in showing her that he's interested, but she has her daughter to think about and getting involved with a man isn't on her priority list. When her past catches up to her though, Travis is the one she runs to for help and she realizes that maybe getting involved isn't such a bad thing.
Penny and Travis were amazing characters that I loved getting to know more about. For the past few books Penny has been making me curious about her situation, and now that I finally go to find out what was going on with her I liked her even more. She was such a strong mama to leave the only home she knew to take care of her daughter, which I really admired about her.
We got to see Travis grow a lot in this book, and I really enjoyed that. He was the playboy type that flirted and didn't seem to have a care in the world, but then as the book went on the more caring side of him came out. Travis with Belle melted my heart and my panties. Seriously, a hot guy with an adorable little girl? Who wouldn't want to jump on that?
Bottom line, this book and this series is absolutely amazing. Penny and Travis were great together and getting to see them work through their own issues to be better for one another was fantastic. I hope everyone will at least give this series a chance because I really think many will like it.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
June 19, 2016
"Your turn, cowboy."
Stacked Up is the sixth and final book in the Worth the Fight Series. Each book in this series is made complete with complex characters, action, swoon worthy romance, and plenty of sexy steam!!!! Each book can be read as a stand-alone, although, I highly recommend reading the entire series because the characters intertwine nicely throughout the series. As for Stacked Up, it certainly did not disappoint with the story of the southern charmer and MMA Fighter Travis Calhoun and the sweet and struggling single mom Penny Richards.
"Loneliness was a bitch."As we learned in Fighting Dirty, Penny has a young daughter named Belle. She has been struggling to make ends meet, and although she is more than attracted to the local MMA Super Star Travis, she is more than hesitant to get involved with him. Travis has been quite vocal about his desire to remain single and "hassle free" and children aren't quite on his radar. Additionally, Penny has been trying to keep her location secret, and the media coverage that surrounds Travis puts her anonymity in danger.
"I've never done anything like this before."Travis and Penny are quite opposite. Penny comes from a religious home and has an overall positive outlook on life. Whereas, Travis has been quite jaded by his hard upbringing and now is enjoying his financial wealth and "living life" to the fullest. However, when Penny is in need Travis is quick to step up and take care of Penny and Belle. As secrets are revealed, Travis finds himself more drawn to Penny. The two find solace in each other. They share an easy friendship, and the physical attraction between the two quickly blooms from a spark to an explosion. Although Penny has a child, she is quite naive when it comes to the ways of men and Travis is one "bad boy" that doesn't mind becoming her teacher!
"Ms. Prim and Proper was about to get fucked hard and dirty, just the way she'd never known she wanted it."Stacked Up was a perfect blend of smoking hot "sexy" steam and super sweet love. I adored both Travis and Penny individually and together I felt they were a perfect match. Travis was quite a dirty talker and the way that he cared for Penny and wanted to protect her made this book a winning read for me. The addition of the baby Belle and her ability to win over Travis warmed my heart. The supporting characters play a pivotal role in the story, and there was plenty of sweaty action from the gym and fighting in the ring to keep the blood pumping the entire read.
Overall, I highly recommend this entire series to my fighter romance loving fans! This series is full of fun and steam, and these are characters you will never forget. I am truly sad to say goodbye to this series but no doubt, Ms. Halston has more greatness up her sleeve to share with us. I will be ready and be waiting for more!!!!
***Worth the Fight Series***
*ARC graciously provided via NETGALLEY in exchange for an honest review.
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May 29, 2016
Totally cute, sweet and sexy! Another awesome read by Sidney Halston!
Until a year ago Penelope Richards lived an extremely sheltered, privileged life. Unwed, her famous preacher stepfather demands she give her baby up for adoption to keep up appearances. But Penny escapes to the small town of Tarpon Springs where she’s kept two jobs to sustain herself and her daughter. Even though she’s had a huge crush on the sexy MMA fighter from the moment she saw him, she’s kept to herself knowing he’s all about carefree fun and she’s completely devoted and responsible for her baby.
Even though he could get any girl he wanted, for the past year Travis Calhoun has been spending his nights chatting up the shy and sweet bartender he can’t stop thinking about because she makes him feel at peace. After a night of delicious sensual revelations he wants more, but can Penny fit in his life and the budding career he’s worked his entire life for when he finds out she comes as a package deal with a tiny bundle of joy?
Sidney Halston writes sexy, heartfelt stories. I can trust that I’ll enjoy them without taking a peek at the blurb because they’re written with heart and usually include themes such as forgiveness and embracing a better and happy future with charming and loveable characters that are sure to please.
Travis is a smooth talking, hot MMA fighter who can make anyone smile. But his easy going manner is actually a façade for some self-worth insecurities he will have to resolve before he can move forward with Penny. I loved how he slowly transformed from oblivious and carefree to protecting and devoted. All the scenes with Travis and baby Belle were totally sweet and made it impossible not to fall for the sexy cowboy hat wearing man caring for a baby girl.
Even though Penny had grown up with extremely strict rules and sheltered, she’s no fool. I really liked her for her backbone when it came to her daughter. She may be oblivious to some things, but she’s a strong, caring woman who is perfect for Travis. I very much enjoyed how Penny and Travis open and honestly worked through their problems to be better for themselves and one another. And let’s not forget how much they heated up the pages during their sexy times!
Even though this series has come to an end, I’m sure Sidney Halstone’s future projects will be equally fun and enjoyable. I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
Stacked Up is book #6 in the Worth the Fight series by Sidney Halston. It’s full of fun, sweet sexiness with an exciting MMA backdrop. It’s a standalone contemporary romance, written from both points of view with a hearts and flowers happy ending.
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Until a year ago Penelope Richards lived an extremely sheltered, privileged life. Unwed, her famous preacher stepfather demands she give her baby up for adoption to keep up appearances. But Penny escapes to the small town of Tarpon Springs where she’s kept two jobs to sustain herself and her daughter. Even though she’s had a huge crush on the sexy MMA fighter from the moment she saw him, she’s kept to herself knowing he’s all about carefree fun and she’s completely devoted and responsible for her baby.
“Penny, darlin’ you’re the sweetest kind of sugar there is. You’re gonna make takin’ it slow the best kind of torture, aren’t you?”
Even though he could get any girl he wanted, for the past year Travis Calhoun has been spending his nights chatting up the shy and sweet bartender he can’t stop thinking about because she makes him feel at peace. After a night of delicious sensual revelations he wants more, but can Penny fit in his life and the budding career he’s worked his entire life for when he finds out she comes as a package deal with a tiny bundle of joy?
“I want you. I’ve had you, and it wasn’t enough. I need more of it. But I also don’t think I can do the family thing.”
Sidney Halston writes sexy, heartfelt stories. I can trust that I’ll enjoy them without taking a peek at the blurb because they’re written with heart and usually include themes such as forgiveness and embracing a better and happy future with charming and loveable characters that are sure to please.
“Forgiving isn’t about the other person… it’s about you. Forgive her so that you can move on. You’ll feel better for it.”
Travis is a smooth talking, hot MMA fighter who can make anyone smile. But his easy going manner is actually a façade for some self-worth insecurities he will have to resolve before he can move forward with Penny. I loved how he slowly transformed from oblivious and carefree to protecting and devoted. All the scenes with Travis and baby Belle were totally sweet and made it impossible not to fall for the sexy cowboy hat wearing man caring for a baby girl.
“You two somehow clawed our way into my little inconsequential life. I don’t even think I was living before I met you. I was just existing. No real emotions; nothing. Now that you’re here… My life has purpose. It has meaning.”
Even though Penny had grown up with extremely strict rules and sheltered, she’s no fool. I really liked her for her backbone when it came to her daughter. She may be oblivious to some things, but she’s a strong, caring woman who is perfect for Travis. I very much enjoyed how Penny and Travis open and honestly worked through their problems to be better for themselves and one another. And let’s not forget how much they heated up the pages during their sexy times!
“He needed to feel needed. Wanted. No one except his sister had ever loved him – ever.”
Even though this series has come to an end, I’m sure Sidney Halstone’s future projects will be equally fun and enjoyable. I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
Stacked Up is book #6 in the Worth the Fight series by Sidney Halston. It’s full of fun, sweet sexiness with an exciting MMA backdrop. It’s a standalone contemporary romance, written from both points of view with a hearts and flowers happy ending.
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
March 15, 2016
Noooo!!!
The book was a 4 stars for 93%! Gah, why, why did Halston feel the need to add more stuff?! It would have been so much better if she hadn't... After everything finished, after I had my perfect ending (gushy, but really sweet), . There was really no use for that! And everything lasted about 10 pages max, so it was pointless to the story and to the development of the characters. I mean, we had the ending a few pages back!
But if I forget the ending, this was a really sweet, cute book. Way better than I expected. It wasn't that typical love story and I liked it. They didn't fall in love at first sight and I liked their chemistry, they had to get over a few stuff to actually fall for each other.
So yup, a really cute, sweet love story.
The book was a 4 stars for 93%! Gah, why, why did Halston feel the need to add more stuff?! It would have been so much better if she hadn't... After everything finished, after I had my perfect ending (gushy, but really sweet), . There was really no use for that! And everything lasted about 10 pages max, so it was pointless to the story and to the development of the characters. I mean, we had the ending a few pages back!
But if I forget the ending, this was a really sweet, cute book. Way better than I expected. It wasn't that typical love story and I liked it. They didn't fall in love at first sight and I liked their chemistry, they had to get over a few stuff to actually fall for each other.
So yup, a really cute, sweet love story.
March 18, 2016
4 Stacked Stars
A single mama’s book with a MMA fighter, well sign me up! Stacked up is a standalone and is part of the Worth the Fight series. This is my first Sidney Halston book. I’m a mega fan of single-parent books, so I was really excited about this one.
Penny Richards ran away from home when her baby was two days old. She adventures to a small town and becomes a bartender and waitress to earn a living. On her first day on the job she meets Travis. I really love Penny, I love a struggling poor mother. We don’t know why Penny ran away from home, but we do know her staying home isn’t an option. She’s very resilient, determine and strong. Her daughter is her priority and when she sees Travis she knows he’s the type of guy that would never go for a broken girl like her.
Travis is a MMA fighter. He’s also from the south, everyone calls him Texas. He’s a single guy looking for a no-fuss no-muss relationship. It’s a year later and Penny and Travis are still friends, until one day they kiss and everything changes. Travis was a hard character to like. He’s got all the charms of a likable Hero, but his take on children was hard to get through. He kept on calling Penny’s daughter “kid” and that kind of got on my nerves. Call me crazy but I wanted him to have insta-love for Penny’s daughter at first sight.
Travis is being filmed because HBO is doing a documentary about fighters. Penny is cautious about being in the spotlight, but Travis assures her that he’s not that famous and he’s only filmed when he works out.
I liked how Penny and Travis’ relationship wasn’t an insta-love and it took about a year for things to move into something more. The relationship never dragged, but just slowly developed. I did wish in the beginning there were more baby moments. I love reading kids in books, so you don’t get to know the daughter until towards the middle of the book.
I really liked the second half of the book when it shifts and the drama comes out. Travis’ inability to love and Penny’s past comes to light. It’s a non-stop action pack book filled with obstacles, but it was entertaining to read. I assume the secondary characters are from the previous books and it makes me curious to read their stories now. I really like the supporting characters and I found the town really adorable.
It’s a fun lovable single-parent read with a slight touch of angst and alpha hero.
AN ARC was provided
Against the Cage #1 AMAZON
Full Contact #2 AMAZON
Below the Belt #3 AMAZON
Laid Out #4 AMAZON
Fighting Dirty #5 AMAZON
Stacked Up #6 AMAZON
A single mama’s book with a MMA fighter, well sign me up! Stacked up is a standalone and is part of the Worth the Fight series. This is my first Sidney Halston book. I’m a mega fan of single-parent books, so I was really excited about this one.
Penny Richards ran away from home when her baby was two days old. She adventures to a small town and becomes a bartender and waitress to earn a living. On her first day on the job she meets Travis. I really love Penny, I love a struggling poor mother. We don’t know why Penny ran away from home, but we do know her staying home isn’t an option. She’s very resilient, determine and strong. Her daughter is her priority and when she sees Travis she knows he’s the type of guy that would never go for a broken girl like her.
Travis is a MMA fighter. He’s also from the south, everyone calls him Texas. He’s a single guy looking for a no-fuss no-muss relationship. It’s a year later and Penny and Travis are still friends, until one day they kiss and everything changes. Travis was a hard character to like. He’s got all the charms of a likable Hero, but his take on children was hard to get through. He kept on calling Penny’s daughter “kid” and that kind of got on my nerves. Call me crazy but I wanted him to have insta-love for Penny’s daughter at first sight.
Travis is being filmed because HBO is doing a documentary about fighters. Penny is cautious about being in the spotlight, but Travis assures her that he’s not that famous and he’s only filmed when he works out.
I liked how Penny and Travis’ relationship wasn’t an insta-love and it took about a year for things to move into something more. The relationship never dragged, but just slowly developed. I did wish in the beginning there were more baby moments. I love reading kids in books, so you don’t get to know the daughter until towards the middle of the book.
I really liked the second half of the book when it shifts and the drama comes out. Travis’ inability to love and Penny’s past comes to light. It’s a non-stop action pack book filled with obstacles, but it was entertaining to read. I assume the secondary characters are from the previous books and it makes me curious to read their stories now. I really like the supporting characters and I found the town really adorable.
It’s a fun lovable single-parent read with a slight touch of angst and alpha hero.
AN ARC was provided
Against the Cage #1 AMAZON
Full Contact #2 AMAZON
Below the Belt #3 AMAZON
Laid Out #4 AMAZON
Fighting Dirty #5 AMAZON
Stacked Up #6 AMAZON
March 18, 2016
ARC received for review
NNNNOOOOO!!! This series is over. Every book was so good, and this one was no exception. Travis/Texas has been trying to date Penny for a year, and after Penny has a really bad day they finally hook up. Then Travis finds out her secret, and he surprises himself and falls really hard for Penny. Penny past finds her, and we have drama. Loved seeing all the gang again.
Now, can we have a new series where the first book is Iggy.
NNNNOOOOO!!! This series is over. Every book was so good, and this one was no exception. Travis/Texas has been trying to date Penny for a year, and after Penny has a really bad day they finally hook up. Then Travis finds out her secret, and he surprises himself and falls really hard for Penny. Penny past finds her, and we have drama. Loved seeing all the gang again.
Now, can we have a new series where the first book is Iggy.
May 30, 2016
Good ending to a good series! I enjoyed Travis and Penny's story!
June 15, 2016
I wish I could say I loved this but I didn't. Travis and Penny had the layout to be a story I loved but it just, when it was read, didn't click for me. It was enjoyable but I didn't love it. I wasn't consumed by the story and found myself rolling my eyes-never a good sign.
Penny's a single mother trying to make it on her own after running away from her insane step-father who happens to be a famous television preacher. She meets Travis as soon as she moves to the small town and from then the two create a friendship of sorts. Penny doesn't have time for anything outside of that, anyway.
After waiting and watching, Travis decides he wants to try with Penny. The relationship tumble is a bit messy, clumsy and brings about issues that could make Penny lose her daughter. That's the real struggle and issue in the book that causes problems between Penny and Travis. Travis and Penny's relationship is nothing special, at least not to me, I just didn't feel the sparks or the tugs at my heart. I read it easily enough, but it wasn't something that really moved me.
Penny's a single mother trying to make it on her own after running away from her insane step-father who happens to be a famous television preacher. She meets Travis as soon as she moves to the small town and from then the two create a friendship of sorts. Penny doesn't have time for anything outside of that, anyway.
After waiting and watching, Travis decides he wants to try with Penny. The relationship tumble is a bit messy, clumsy and brings about issues that could make Penny lose her daughter. That's the real struggle and issue in the book that causes problems between Penny and Travis. Travis and Penny's relationship is nothing special, at least not to me, I just didn't feel the sparks or the tugs at my heart. I read it easily enough, but it wasn't something that really moved me.
June 7, 2016
4 "My Twavis" stars
I really enjoyed Stacked Up, what a lovely way to end the Worth the Fight series.
Travis and Penny's story was such a good read, I loved how loving/patient Travis was with Penny. Travis sensed Penny was scared and hiding something dark from her past. With communication, patience, trust and love he was able to help her lower her guard and let him in and be there for her. They were awesome together, Penny brought so much life into Travis's world and even though he kept saying he didn't want kids it didn't take long for Penny's little girl SaraBelle/Belle, to capture his heart and have him stepping into the protective proud daddy role.
I loved watching these three together, they shared a deep love and I knew they would have a beautiful life ahead full of love and happiness.
I've enjoyed all the books in the Worth the Fight series, each can be read as a standalone and I highly recommend them all.
Thank you to Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley for the advance copy.
I really enjoyed Stacked Up, what a lovely way to end the Worth the Fight series.
Travis and Penny's story was such a good read, I loved how loving/patient Travis was with Penny. Travis sensed Penny was scared and hiding something dark from her past. With communication, patience, trust and love he was able to help her lower her guard and let him in and be there for her. They were awesome together, Penny brought so much life into Travis's world and even though he kept saying he didn't want kids it didn't take long for Penny's little girl SaraBelle/Belle, to capture his heart and have him stepping into the protective proud daddy role.
I loved watching these three together, they shared a deep love and I knew they would have a beautiful life ahead full of love and happiness.
I've enjoyed all the books in the Worth the Fight series, each can be read as a standalone and I highly recommend them all.
Thank you to Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley for the advance copy.
June 4, 2016
What a perfect ending to this series! I absolutely loved it. As much as I hated to say goodbye to all these perfect alpha's, I was glad Travis was my last. This series will stay with me for a long long time. As I read each one I could hardly wait for the next! I can't wait to see where this very talented author takes me next!
May 30, 2016
A bittersweet end with just the right amount of feels…
There’s something about this series… The drama, the angst and the heat continue for a group of friends/family that happily grew in numbers as the instalments stacked. Alas, it is all over now, but this final story ended on an emotional and satisfying note.
Travis Calhoun quietly meandered his way into the group a while back and this is his turn at the romance wheel. He was a quiet one, and his and Penny Richards’ courtship seemed to follow his lead. Over the span of a year, they were going to warily circle each other—not quite friends, definitely not lovers—but something was definitely percolating under the surface.
I found Penny to be this intriguing mix of sweet and sassy. In many respects, she seemed to be a product of her sheltered and deeply religious upbringing. She was shy and innocent, yet could hold her own with Travis and anyone else who might challenge her hard-won independence. Her adorable Sarabelle was worth any fight or sacrifice.
Travis was guarded too, but when he glimpses the vulnerability Penny hides so well, and the secret she’s been hiding, it is time for the full court press. His head down, all bets are off style of courtship won me over. Apparently, he has the touch for all the ladies, regardless of age!
There is a hint of soap, and a lot of angst and drama, with little Belle the catalyst in the middle of it all. I think she was my favorite character with Travis a close, sexy second. With Iggy hopefully getting his own book, this won’t be the end after all—thank goodness! ~ Diane, 4 stars
There’s something about this series… The drama, the angst and the heat continue for a group of friends/family that happily grew in numbers as the instalments stacked. Alas, it is all over now, but this final story ended on an emotional and satisfying note.
Travis Calhoun quietly meandered his way into the group a while back and this is his turn at the romance wheel. He was a quiet one, and his and Penny Richards’ courtship seemed to follow his lead. Over the span of a year, they were going to warily circle each other—not quite friends, definitely not lovers—but something was definitely percolating under the surface.
I found Penny to be this intriguing mix of sweet and sassy. In many respects, she seemed to be a product of her sheltered and deeply religious upbringing. She was shy and innocent, yet could hold her own with Travis and anyone else who might challenge her hard-won independence. Her adorable Sarabelle was worth any fight or sacrifice.
Travis was guarded too, but when he glimpses the vulnerability Penny hides so well, and the secret she’s been hiding, it is time for the full court press. His head down, all bets are off style of courtship won me over. Apparently, he has the touch for all the ladies, regardless of age!
There is a hint of soap, and a lot of angst and drama, with little Belle the catalyst in the middle of it all. I think she was my favorite character with Travis a close, sexy second. With Iggy hopefully getting his own book, this won’t be the end after all—thank goodness! ~ Diane, 4 stars
Want to read
March 14, 2016
***ARC kindly provided viw NetGalley for the exchange of an honest review***
June 20, 2016
***ARC Provided via the Publisher and NetGalley***
Review Originally Appeared on I'm A Sweet and Sassy Book Whore:
http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore....
I have read this entire series and have liked all of them, the first one the most. It really pains me that I did not really like the last one in the series.
My first issue was the blurb...it is like it is for a different book...the issues that are mentioned in the blurb, the things that they would encounter and deal with, felt like inconsequential things in comparison to the actual story line. While this is not an issue, technically, it for me made the book feel that no one really knew where this one was going. This feeling stayed with me through most of the book and the book seemed to have more than one book going through it, but not as subplots.
I liked the last 3rd of this book a lot more than I liked the beginning and middle. In fact, the last 3rd was a 4-5 star story...unfortunately, the 2/3 of the book before is was a 1 star and bordering on a DNF for me, so I can't bring myself to rate it highly, it was not this book that kept me reading, it was the 5 that came before it. This is the end of the series, the final book, and I wanted to know what happened, more to see where it left everyone in Worth the Fight than to see where they ended up.
Both Penny and Travis annoyed the heck out of me.
Penny has absolutely no backbone, which is odd for someone who has been through what she has, and until the latter portions of the book, she was wishy-washy and uneven as a character. I think it was an attempt to balance her strength with a little vulnerability, but it ended up leaving me annoyed at her, and more than once. I have no issues with God, or with characters who are religious, but Penny's religion at the beginning was to the point where it was almost preachy and I was starting to feel like there was a point trying to be made to the reader about God...which is fine in and of itself, but odd as this was not an element that was in the other 5 books so it made this one feel out of place.
Travis is a jerk. After the 4th time he referred to Bella as "it" "the kid" and other ways of avoiding saying her name, I was ready to slap him myself...I understand that he doesn't particularly want or like children, but at that point, I was starting to question why Penny would want him? What single mother wants a man, no matter how good the sex is, who weeks into the relationship is calling a child "it"? Yes, he gets better and he comes to realize that he is actually capable of love, and of loving both of them, but I am not convinced that any person would have stayed around to give him the time to get to that point, based on where he started from.
As I mentioned the pacing, the story and the characters were uneven throughout most of the story. If the last part had been where this started and focused, this would have been a much better read.
All in all, I thought this was a disappointing conclusion to the series.
Review Originally Appeared on I'm A Sweet and Sassy Book Whore:
http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore....
I have read this entire series and have liked all of them, the first one the most. It really pains me that I did not really like the last one in the series.
My first issue was the blurb...it is like it is for a different book...the issues that are mentioned in the blurb, the things that they would encounter and deal with, felt like inconsequential things in comparison to the actual story line. While this is not an issue, technically, it for me made the book feel that no one really knew where this one was going. This feeling stayed with me through most of the book and the book seemed to have more than one book going through it, but not as subplots.
I liked the last 3rd of this book a lot more than I liked the beginning and middle. In fact, the last 3rd was a 4-5 star story...unfortunately, the 2/3 of the book before is was a 1 star and bordering on a DNF for me, so I can't bring myself to rate it highly, it was not this book that kept me reading, it was the 5 that came before it. This is the end of the series, the final book, and I wanted to know what happened, more to see where it left everyone in Worth the Fight than to see where they ended up.
Both Penny and Travis annoyed the heck out of me.
Penny has absolutely no backbone, which is odd for someone who has been through what she has, and until the latter portions of the book, she was wishy-washy and uneven as a character. I think it was an attempt to balance her strength with a little vulnerability, but it ended up leaving me annoyed at her, and more than once. I have no issues with God, or with characters who are religious, but Penny's religion at the beginning was to the point where it was almost preachy and I was starting to feel like there was a point trying to be made to the reader about God...which is fine in and of itself, but odd as this was not an element that was in the other 5 books so it made this one feel out of place.
Travis is a jerk. After the 4th time he referred to Bella as "it" "the kid" and other ways of avoiding saying her name, I was ready to slap him myself...I understand that he doesn't particularly want or like children, but at that point, I was starting to question why Penny would want him? What single mother wants a man, no matter how good the sex is, who weeks into the relationship is calling a child "it"? Yes, he gets better and he comes to realize that he is actually capable of love, and of loving both of them, but I am not convinced that any person would have stayed around to give him the time to get to that point, based on where he started from.
As I mentioned the pacing, the story and the characters were uneven throughout most of the story. If the last part had been where this started and focused, this would have been a much better read.
All in all, I thought this was a disappointing conclusion to the series.
May 29, 2016
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
In Stacked Up we have a story of a young woman that grew up in a strong religious environment. But when she finds herself pregnant at eighteen, to escape her horrid step father and his cruel scheme, she flees so she can raise her baby on her own. Its been a year, working multiple jobs just to make ends meet. Then things heat up between herself and Tanner, who is a MMA fighter. Their relationship has always been on a mere friendship level until now. Tanner loves his single life, but he is drawn to Penny who is sweet and innocent. Not his typical woman---she intrigues him. But then when he finds out that she has a one year old daughter, Tanner has to rethink his priorities. He doesn't care much for kids at all. He doesn't want to settle. But he is drawn to Penny and her little girl in ways he can't explain. But when Penny's past come back and threatens to take her daughter away, Tanner steps in. I really liked this book quite a bit, it was my first book from this author, and it was a cute story. I do love seeing a bit of a bad boy with a woman that is religious. Especially since Tanner doesn't understand her beliefs in many ways---but she educates him. I liked that she wasn't judgmental at all, she accepted Tanner for who he is. It was a great balance these two find with each other. And I was intrigued by the other side characters that have books of their own in this series, and I want to pick up book one because these men and women are awesome!! If you like sports romance especially some sexy MMA fighters---Halston is a author to pick up.
[foogallery id="21653"]
In Stacked Up we have a story of a young woman that grew up in a strong religious environment. But when she finds herself pregnant at eighteen, to escape her horrid step father and his cruel scheme, she flees so she can raise her baby on her own. Its been a year, working multiple jobs just to make ends meet. Then things heat up between herself and Tanner, who is a MMA fighter. Their relationship has always been on a mere friendship level until now. Tanner loves his single life, but he is drawn to Penny who is sweet and innocent. Not his typical woman---she intrigues him. But then when he finds out that she has a one year old daughter, Tanner has to rethink his priorities. He doesn't care much for kids at all. He doesn't want to settle. But he is drawn to Penny and her little girl in ways he can't explain. But when Penny's past come back and threatens to take her daughter away, Tanner steps in. I really liked this book quite a bit, it was my first book from this author, and it was a cute story. I do love seeing a bit of a bad boy with a woman that is religious. Especially since Tanner doesn't understand her beliefs in many ways---but she educates him. I liked that she wasn't judgmental at all, she accepted Tanner for who he is. It was a great balance these two find with each other. And I was intrigued by the other side characters that have books of their own in this series, and I want to pick up book one because these men and women are awesome!! If you like sports romance especially some sexy MMA fighters---Halston is a author to pick up.
[foogallery id="21653"]
May 27, 2016
Although this was a quick easy read, it was really hard for me to rate.
There were things that I liked ...
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Things that I loved ...
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And than there were things that just left me wondering...
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Mostly I just felt like I never really connected to either MC. Penny was a good character but way too often she was the damsel in distress (she was always needing to be rescued!) I did like that she was determined to succeed and fought so hard for her daughter, Sarabelle. I was just expecting her to toughen up and maybe rescue herself for a change, but that never happens :(
Than there's Travis. He was possessive, protective, affectionate and rough around the edges. Everything that I like in an alpha H right? But he ran too hot and cold for me. He was hot with Penny one minute and than he would say or do something to push her away. His initial reaction to Sarabelle I didn't hold against him because it was a surprise but than he keeps up the jerk behavior and that was so not hero material for me.
I get that he was mad about being left in the dark but he admits that he only wanted "fun" with Penny. So why would he than feel entitled to knowing all her secrets, if it was only going to be a short fling? I think this bugged me so much because as the reader I got his inner struggle. We know its his fears and insecurities that are holding him back but Penny doesn't get any of that. She just sees and hears rejection and that was hard to take. Eventually he is all in for this instant family and his girls become his top priority and it was really sweet. It was just that in between time that brought me down a bit.
Long story short I liked the beginning, was confused and annoyed by the middle and loved the ending. I really wish we'd gotten an epilogue!!
*** ARC Provided for an honest review ***
There were things that I liked ...
Things that I loved ...
And than there were things that just left me wondering...
Mostly I just felt like I never really connected to either MC. Penny was a good character but way too often she was the damsel in distress (she was always needing to be rescued!) I did like that she was determined to succeed and fought so hard for her daughter, Sarabelle. I was just expecting her to toughen up and maybe rescue herself for a change, but that never happens :(
Than there's Travis. He was possessive, protective, affectionate and rough around the edges. Everything that I like in an alpha H right? But he ran too hot and cold for me. He was hot with Penny one minute and than he would say or do something to push her away. His initial reaction to Sarabelle I didn't hold against him because it was a surprise but than he keeps up the jerk behavior and that was so not hero material for me.
I get that he was mad about being left in the dark but he admits that he only wanted "fun" with Penny. So why would he than feel entitled to knowing all her secrets, if it was only going to be a short fling? I think this bugged me so much because as the reader I got his inner struggle. We know its his fears and insecurities that are holding him back but Penny doesn't get any of that. She just sees and hears rejection and that was hard to take. Eventually he is all in for this instant family and his girls become his top priority and it was really sweet. It was just that in between time that brought me down a bit.
Long story short I liked the beginning, was confused and annoyed by the middle and loved the ending. I really wish we'd gotten an epilogue!!
*** ARC Provided for an honest review ***
March 28, 2016
Travis Calhoun has been interested in Penny Richards since the first time he saw her. He wants her in his bed but that doesn't mean he is ready for commitment, girlfriend sure, but anything other than that is not in the plans at this time in his life. Travis is focusing on his MMA career and that is the only priority n his life besides his sister.
Penny is attracted to Travis, but she is also a single mom working two jobs hiding from the rigid life she had before. She has kept herself under the radar and when Travis makes a public display of his affection for her all hell breaks loose. Travis finds out Penny has a daughter, he blanches. It's not that he doesn't like kids but he really isn't father material. As Penny is threatened with her past, Travis steps in and he finds himself letting go of some of reluctance of a relationship and wanting to see where life with Penny and her daughter will lead.
Big fan of Sidney Halston and this story did not disappoint. Travis I enjoyed so much because he is honest about his feelings and hesitation to get more involved with Penny. I liked that their relationship was gradual and not just instant. Penny's story was unique, had not read that type of plot line before which was refreshing. Great read.
Penny is attracted to Travis, but she is also a single mom working two jobs hiding from the rigid life she had before. She has kept herself under the radar and when Travis makes a public display of his affection for her all hell breaks loose. Travis finds out Penny has a daughter, he blanches. It's not that he doesn't like kids but he really isn't father material. As Penny is threatened with her past, Travis steps in and he finds himself letting go of some of reluctance of a relationship and wanting to see where life with Penny and her daughter will lead.
Big fan of Sidney Halston and this story did not disappoint. Travis I enjoyed so much because he is honest about his feelings and hesitation to get more involved with Penny. I liked that their relationship was gradual and not just instant. Penny's story was unique, had not read that type of plot line before which was refreshing. Great read.
November 19, 2025
In this Single mom meets a cowboy MMA fighter, Stacked Up kind of gives off the feeling of a new and very adult twist to the FOOTLOOSE-ish plot.
Penny was working two jobs to support her young daughter. Penny ran away from her rich, disapproving family to keep her daughter and her daughter means everything to Penny.
Travis is a carefree cowboy with an MMA career about to explode in the national media spotlight. He takes a serious liking to Penny. He actively pursues her and convinces her to live a little…not knowing what responsibilities she is carrying.
There is a ready to order family just waiting for our couple to comes to terms with their hang ups. Penny is the opposite of Travis’ mother. Penny is in hiding from her over bearing family that wants to control her life. Then there is the adorable daughter that ties them all together.
I could have done without the Evangelical stereo-typing. Every time that came up I inwardly cringed, forunately the overall vibe of the story prevailed.
The vibe of this story was its utter cute appeal. The flat out sweet and tenderness just had me smiling while reading. I attribute this to how the author has these characters open up and share their pasts. The openness of the characters eliminates that pesky second guessing and that bothersome “I’d just wish they’d talk to each other”, because they really do share.
I received this ARC copy of Stacked Up from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept in exchanged for a honest review. This book is set for publication 31 May 2016.
Penny was working two jobs to support her young daughter. Penny ran away from her rich, disapproving family to keep her daughter and her daughter means everything to Penny.
Travis is a carefree cowboy with an MMA career about to explode in the national media spotlight. He takes a serious liking to Penny. He actively pursues her and convinces her to live a little…not knowing what responsibilities she is carrying.
There is a ready to order family just waiting for our couple to comes to terms with their hang ups. Penny is the opposite of Travis’ mother. Penny is in hiding from her over bearing family that wants to control her life. Then there is the adorable daughter that ties them all together.
I could have done without the Evangelical stereo-typing. Every time that came up I inwardly cringed, forunately the overall vibe of the story prevailed.
The vibe of this story was its utter cute appeal. The flat out sweet and tenderness just had me smiling while reading. I attribute this to how the author has these characters open up and share their pasts. The openness of the characters eliminates that pesky second guessing and that bothersome “I’d just wish they’d talk to each other”, because they really do share.
I received this ARC copy of Stacked Up from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept in exchanged for a honest review. This book is set for publication 31 May 2016.
February 6, 2017
This review is based on an ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
I'm always scared to come in the middle of the series because usually the author mentions the backstory from other books in the series and you are just left hanging. It's confusing as all ...., yeah you know what I meant. You can recognize the quality in this author. No confusion, just enjoying a good book.
I'm always scared to come in the middle of the series because usually the author mentions the backstory from other books in the series and you are just left hanging. It's confusing as all ...., yeah you know what I meant. You can recognize the quality in this author. No confusion, just enjoying a good book.
March 21, 2016
5 Stars
Another smash hit in the Worth the Fight series by Sidney Halston! I love this series! Each book can be read as a stand alone, including Stacked Up.
Penny is a woman on the run with her newborn daughter. Her step-father is a wealthy, TV preacher who is also a controlling religious freak who shipped her off to a home for unwed mother's to have her baby and then force her to give her baby up for adoption. But Penny has no intention of giving up her child. Nearly penniless and with a two day old baby she goes on the run to a small town in Florida. Desperate and lonely she finds the people extremely nice and willing to help but she really doesn't let anybody close.
Travis! A hot "cowboy" from Texas who is an MMA fighter who has come to train at the "Worth the Fight" Academy. He's training hard for the championship title and has only had time to train hard and for one night stands. Until he saw Penny.
There is a definite attraction between Penny and Travis but Penny keeps shutting Travis down. He doesn't know she has a baby and he's made it clear in casual conversation that he hates kids and never wants any. So Penny keeps her secret and keeps her distance from Travis. The problem? Travis can't keep his distance from her.
In a weak moment Penny allows herself one night of pleasure with Travis but the man with the womanizing reputation, for some reason he can't decipher, wants more.
Secrets are kept and complications arise and we're left hanging on the edge of our seats worrying about what will happen when secrets are exposed and her step-father finds out her location.
I love Penny. She was willing to give up a life of luxury to keep her baby and to get away from her overbearing stepdad. She's strong and independent. But she's also naive to the real world that she has been sheltered from all of her life. She's working sh**t jobs to scrape by but holds her head high and works her fingers to the bone to make the best life possible for her baby.
Travis has seen his share of hard times and uses fighting as a way to forget his past. He has good friends and his twin sister but there's been something missing in his life and until he meets Penny he never knew what that was. Yet he believes he's not good enough for her and of course he doesn't know she has a kid.
Lots of hot sex scenes. (Would have liked him to be a big more romantic with her but understand why Ms. Halston wrote the sex scenes the way she did.)
As usual Ms. Halston delivers wonderful characters. I highly recommend this book and the Worth the Fight series.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Another smash hit in the Worth the Fight series by Sidney Halston! I love this series! Each book can be read as a stand alone, including Stacked Up.
Penny is a woman on the run with her newborn daughter. Her step-father is a wealthy, TV preacher who is also a controlling religious freak who shipped her off to a home for unwed mother's to have her baby and then force her to give her baby up for adoption. But Penny has no intention of giving up her child. Nearly penniless and with a two day old baby she goes on the run to a small town in Florida. Desperate and lonely she finds the people extremely nice and willing to help but she really doesn't let anybody close.
Travis! A hot "cowboy" from Texas who is an MMA fighter who has come to train at the "Worth the Fight" Academy. He's training hard for the championship title and has only had time to train hard and for one night stands. Until he saw Penny.
There is a definite attraction between Penny and Travis but Penny keeps shutting Travis down. He doesn't know she has a baby and he's made it clear in casual conversation that he hates kids and never wants any. So Penny keeps her secret and keeps her distance from Travis. The problem? Travis can't keep his distance from her.
In a weak moment Penny allows herself one night of pleasure with Travis but the man with the womanizing reputation, for some reason he can't decipher, wants more.
Secrets are kept and complications arise and we're left hanging on the edge of our seats worrying about what will happen when secrets are exposed and her step-father finds out her location.
I love Penny. She was willing to give up a life of luxury to keep her baby and to get away from her overbearing stepdad. She's strong and independent. But she's also naive to the real world that she has been sheltered from all of her life. She's working sh**t jobs to scrape by but holds her head high and works her fingers to the bone to make the best life possible for her baby.
Travis has seen his share of hard times and uses fighting as a way to forget his past. He has good friends and his twin sister but there's been something missing in his life and until he meets Penny he never knew what that was. Yet he believes he's not good enough for her and of course he doesn't know she has a kid.
Lots of hot sex scenes. (Would have liked him to be a big more romantic with her but understand why Ms. Halston wrote the sex scenes the way she did.)
As usual Ms. Halston delivers wonderful characters. I highly recommend this book and the Worth the Fight series.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 21, 2016
Single parent books tend to be hit or miss for me and while I enjoyed this book up to maybe 95% percent the ending didn't need to be added to make this a great read. Of course this could be read as a standalone but this is the last book in this series and contains characters from the previous books.
Penny ran away from her controlling stepdad and home after she gave birth. She went from always being in the public eye to working two jobs just to support her and her daughter. On her first day of work she meets super hot Travis but knows he isn't what she needs right now. Over the year she has lived in this town she hasn't really made friends and keeps to herself but Travis is knocking down her walls. I loved Penny and her independence. She might be young but her determination to do whatever she can is admirable.
Travis is a MMA fighter and is becoming more famous. He's single and not really looking to change his status. After one kiss Travis is certain that he wants to learn more about Penny but as he start finding out the secrets that she kept he wants to protect her and lend a helping hand. As there relationship and friendship start to grow Travis learns more about himself that he never thought was possible. I really liked Travis and the changes his character made along the way. He went from not wanting a relationship and kids to falling for Penny's daughter and her mom. He just needed the right people to change his opinions.
The one thing Penny asks is that no pictures of her are taken since Travis is being filmed for a documentary. But Travis breaks that and Penny's past comes calling. Now it's up to Travis to help Penny and her daughter no matter what the cost is.
What really drew me into this story was their relationship. It wasn't instant and it took time. Their relationship has rocky times but I love how Travis didn't really think twice about what to do and when to do it. Some of my favorite parts were with Travis and the baby. They were cute, funny and full of love.
Overall besides the last few minutes of the book I really enjoyed this read and was happy with the character development, writing and the interesting plot. I'm sad this series is coming to an end but excited to see what is next for this author.
Penny ran away from her controlling stepdad and home after she gave birth. She went from always being in the public eye to working two jobs just to support her and her daughter. On her first day of work she meets super hot Travis but knows he isn't what she needs right now. Over the year she has lived in this town she hasn't really made friends and keeps to herself but Travis is knocking down her walls. I loved Penny and her independence. She might be young but her determination to do whatever she can is admirable.
Travis is a MMA fighter and is becoming more famous. He's single and not really looking to change his status. After one kiss Travis is certain that he wants to learn more about Penny but as he start finding out the secrets that she kept he wants to protect her and lend a helping hand. As there relationship and friendship start to grow Travis learns more about himself that he never thought was possible. I really liked Travis and the changes his character made along the way. He went from not wanting a relationship and kids to falling for Penny's daughter and her mom. He just needed the right people to change his opinions.
The one thing Penny asks is that no pictures of her are taken since Travis is being filmed for a documentary. But Travis breaks that and Penny's past comes calling. Now it's up to Travis to help Penny and her daughter no matter what the cost is.
What really drew me into this story was their relationship. It wasn't instant and it took time. Their relationship has rocky times but I love how Travis didn't really think twice about what to do and when to do it. Some of my favorite parts were with Travis and the baby. They were cute, funny and full of love.
Overall besides the last few minutes of the book I really enjoyed this read and was happy with the character development, writing and the interesting plot. I'm sad this series is coming to an end but excited to see what is next for this author.
March 9, 2018
Having read already several books in the “Worth the Fight” series by Sidney Halston – I already knew that I was going to like her plot development and her writing style. So it came as no surprise that I also liked that when I read her newest addition to that series “Stacked up”.
Reading the Blurb I thought it would be a nice touch to have a character like Penny together with an MMA fighter. And It turned out – I was right Penny as well as her family background were a real great addition.
I liked the storyline and the way it was drawn but then I encountered a problem. That problem was Travis … our MMA fighter … If you read a lot like me – you try to imagine the people in those books you read about.
And I do not necessarily mean that I would place myself inside one of the roles – no - just I like to imagine feeling related to their thinking / acting or looking. And usually you go with something you know… The blurb said “The intensely physical heavyweight brawler has a way of drawing out her wild side. But Travis lives fast, with no responsibilities“ – then you take a look at the cover of the book and you think – hmmm yes – that works …
BUT then you start reading and what I got was - Chris Penn as Willard Hewitt in the 1984 Edition of Footloose - just type that into google and check in the images the guy with the hat …
God once that picture of this cowboy was manifested in my brain – nothing worked anymore. I could not place that guy no matter how great or interesting he was as a person into that role of the MMA fighter.
I tried – believe me … So this is really only me but even though I liked the plotline (a lot) the character of Travis was a fail for me.
And I am really sorry about that.
But as I said – I liked all the former books I read – as well as the plot of this one – so there is no doubt I will pick up the next book in this series again.
June 9, 2016
copy provided through Netgalley for honest review
I have loved this series from the first book on. Stacked up is the final story with this great "family". not everyone is related by blood by but choice. This book does not disappoint. It fits in with the others about family, loyalty and love. In this book we meet Penny who is on the run from a difficult situation. She was just 18 years old and pregnant. Her step father is a TV evangelist and very strict. Once she ran from her home, she found herself in Tarpon Springs. She is slow to make friends but finds herself wildly attracted to Travis. We met Travis in previous books. On the outside he is this free loving, not taken seriously guy. He is always flirting and joking around. He is loyal to his sister and friends. Because of his background, he likes to portray that personaity. No commitments, nothing to tie him down. He is not a "family man" , he doesn't want kids, etc. So Penny doesn't let him know about her daughter. It was just supposed to be a fun time. But circumstances blows her intentions out of the water. Her old life catches up with her and Travis has to help her. I will admit Travis was a little annoying with the "I hate Kids" mantra, but his actions showed us that he was lying to himself. Some of his scenes with "the kid" were a little funny. His overprotectiveness was cute. So yeah, he is forgiven. Great series.
I have loved this series from the first book on. Stacked up is the final story with this great "family". not everyone is related by blood by but choice. This book does not disappoint. It fits in with the others about family, loyalty and love. In this book we meet Penny who is on the run from a difficult situation. She was just 18 years old and pregnant. Her step father is a TV evangelist and very strict. Once she ran from her home, she found herself in Tarpon Springs. She is slow to make friends but finds herself wildly attracted to Travis. We met Travis in previous books. On the outside he is this free loving, not taken seriously guy. He is always flirting and joking around. He is loyal to his sister and friends. Because of his background, he likes to portray that personaity. No commitments, nothing to tie him down. He is not a "family man" , he doesn't want kids, etc. So Penny doesn't let him know about her daughter. It was just supposed to be a fun time. But circumstances blows her intentions out of the water. Her old life catches up with her and Travis has to help her. I will admit Travis was a little annoying with the "I hate Kids" mantra, but his actions showed us that he was lying to himself. Some of his scenes with "the kid" were a little funny. His overprotectiveness was cute. So yeah, he is forgiven. Great series.
July 26, 2024
a sad sad day has come ... Worth The FIght has come to an end :( But what a spectacular way to go!
I've read this series from the beginning and it has never disappointed :) #TRUST
Sidney Halston has a style of writing that will draw you into the story and make you feel a part of it. Because when she spins a tale, she makes it not only relatable in character, but also in language. Her books are easy to read and the banter between characters mirrors that of the reader bantering with friends and lovers. It's every day speech and it's refreshing. And she did it perfectly with Penny and Travis!
The way Penny and Travis connected was also very well done. From their basic friendship to their sexual chemistry and also to what they believe or not believe. Penny comes from a very religious background filled with faith ... Travis does not. But there's no judgement or fear between them ... there's only acceptance and understanding. Kudos to Sidney for writing this aspect of the story this way!
The journey of Penny and Travis to HEA was not easy, but when is it ever LOL It does have bumps and hurdles but it really was beautiful. Because of Travis and Penny grew from it and it was just plain **happy sigh**
Copy provided for blog tour review
I've read this series from the beginning and it has never disappointed :) #TRUST
Sidney Halston has a style of writing that will draw you into the story and make you feel a part of it. Because when she spins a tale, she makes it not only relatable in character, but also in language. Her books are easy to read and the banter between characters mirrors that of the reader bantering with friends and lovers. It's every day speech and it's refreshing. And she did it perfectly with Penny and Travis!
The way Penny and Travis connected was also very well done. From their basic friendship to their sexual chemistry and also to what they believe or not believe. Penny comes from a very religious background filled with faith ... Travis does not. But there's no judgement or fear between them ... there's only acceptance and understanding. Kudos to Sidney for writing this aspect of the story this way!
The journey of Penny and Travis to HEA was not easy, but when is it ever LOL It does have bumps and hurdles but it really was beautiful. Because of Travis and Penny grew from it and it was just plain **happy sigh**
Copy provided for blog tour review
May 13, 2016
4 Stars
This is Penny and Travis' story and it was really enjoyable. I have loved this series throughout and this book not only tells their story but gives us more of the other couples we have loved along the way.
I liked the build up between Travis and Penny as their relationship was gradual. Penny's back story was believable and interesting. Travis and his distaste of children was a bit much but okay. My only issue with the story was the verbal skills of Belle, Penny's baby. That child was speaking and understanding way too much for being a 13-15 month old child and it ruined some of the story for me. Now I am sure it is because I am a pediatrician and I am being too picky but as I immerse myself in the stories, this issue just didn't allow me to do that.
Overall I have loved this series and all the characters. While best enjoyed reading in order, it would be very easy to pick up any of these books and read them as a stand alone.
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is Penny and Travis' story and it was really enjoyable. I have loved this series throughout and this book not only tells their story but gives us more of the other couples we have loved along the way.
I liked the build up between Travis and Penny as their relationship was gradual. Penny's back story was believable and interesting. Travis and his distaste of children was a bit much but okay. My only issue with the story was the verbal skills of Belle, Penny's baby. That child was speaking and understanding way too much for being a 13-15 month old child and it ruined some of the story for me. Now I am sure it is because I am a pediatrician and I am being too picky but as I immerse myself in the stories, this issue just didn't allow me to do that.
Overall I have loved this series and all the characters. While best enjoyed reading in order, it would be very easy to pick up any of these books and read them as a stand alone.
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 29, 2016
This Story Rocks
Who would have thought that a love story would develop between a single mom and an mma fighter.
Travis is this kickass mma fighter that is a force of nature. All that matters to him is his family and the mma belt. All of that changes when he meets Penny.
Penny is a single mom that went through a lot to keep her daughter Belle. Working multiple jobs to support herself and Belle the last thing she was expecting was a blue eyed, dimpled hunk.
Penny and Travis like each other from the moment they met. But Penny is keeping Belle a secret. Travis is not particularly fond of kids so finding out that Penny has a child tilts his world on its axis.
The one person that really pulls the story together is Belle. She worms her way under all of his defenses. You see the relationship between Belle and Travis grow. From him treating her like an alien life to the most important person in the world besides Penny. It's not a light hearted romance, where everyone sees the world through rose colored glasses. There's intense romance and drama. It's worth the read.
Who would have thought that a love story would develop between a single mom and an mma fighter.
Travis is this kickass mma fighter that is a force of nature. All that matters to him is his family and the mma belt. All of that changes when he meets Penny.
Penny is a single mom that went through a lot to keep her daughter Belle. Working multiple jobs to support herself and Belle the last thing she was expecting was a blue eyed, dimpled hunk.
Penny and Travis like each other from the moment they met. But Penny is keeping Belle a secret. Travis is not particularly fond of kids so finding out that Penny has a child tilts his world on its axis.
The one person that really pulls the story together is Belle. She worms her way under all of his defenses. You see the relationship between Belle and Travis grow. From him treating her like an alien life to the most important person in the world besides Penny. It's not a light hearted romance, where everyone sees the world through rose colored glasses. There's intense romance and drama. It's worth the read.
May 26, 2016
I have read all the other books in this series and I've loved most of them. I really did like Travis "Texas" Calhoun all that much. He was funny, charming and so full of himself and he was a little annoying. Now? O. M. G. I'm in love with Travis! To watch him change into the man he was meant to be but never believed he was worthy of made my heart happy. The fact that he didn't even realize that he'd fallen for Penny, who is the perfect match for Travis by the way. And that he fell hard for Sarabelle "Belle" Penny's daughter when he "didn't like kids" was a joy to read!
There are so many things I want to say about this book, but it will just give to much away and ruin it for others. So read this book and the rest of the series. Actually start at the beginning so you will get to know the WtF family and love them as much as I do.
There are so many things I want to say about this book, but it will just give to much away and ruin it for others. So read this book and the rest of the series. Actually start at the beginning so you will get to know the WtF family and love them as much as I do.
May 23, 2016
This was an enjoyable read for me. These two came from different backgrounds, but attraction and a little girl pull them together. I could not put this book down. I fell into this story and couldn't my way out until the end. This was a good read. I enjoyed them finding their HEA and seeing old characters once again. Seeing a strong, alpha male, who did not want kids, fall hard in love with a little girl was quite cute and entertaining.
ARC received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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May 31, 2016BOOK REVIEW: Stacked Up
BOOK SERIES: Worth the Fight
AUTHOR: Sidney Halston
GENRE: Sports Romance
PUBLICATION DATE: May 31, 2016
CLIFF HANGER: No
4 Stars
SYNOPSIS:
Opposites attract in this seductive novel from the author of Against the Cage (“Funny, steamy, scorching.”—Toni Aleo), with a chiseled MMA fighter falling for a single mom who could use a real man in her corner.
Working two jobs to support her infant daughter is harder than anything Penny Richards has ever done, but it sure beats living under the rules of her stepfather, a television preacher who demands a picture-perfect family. And if Penny hadn’t struck out on her own, she never would have met Travis Calhoun. The intensely physical heavyweight brawler has a way of drawing out her wild side. But Travis lives fast, with no responsibilities—and that just isn’t for Penny.
Most of the women in Travis’s circle wear tight clothes, high heels, and tons of makeup—not pearls or plaid headbands. But once he works past Penny’s inhibitions, Travis discovers a kindred spirit who longs to trust someone with her body, and her secrets. Still, Travis can’t help but wonder if this rich girl is just slumming it before she returns to her privileged life. Now it’s up to Penny to prove that she wants her hard-edged, hard-loving fighter just the way he is.
MY THOUGHTS:
This is the first time I have read an SH book and I was surprised how much I enjoyed it without having read the previous books. This book can be read as a standalone, however, the supporting cast all had previous books. I will definitely go back and read their stories.
I get an unrequited love/friends to lovers feel to this story, as they were both attracted to each other upon meeting, but never acted on it. Travis tried for a year to get Penny to go out with him. He showed up every night at her job at the Pier where she tended bar. Finally, one night, Penny just couldn’t resist the blue-eyed, dimpled cowboy and surrendered to their first kiss. That kiss sealed the deal.
Penny
Penny is a single mom, that needed to escape from Oklahoma from her famous overbearing TV evangelist stepfather. Her mother and biological father are both dead. She is shy and had a very strict and sheltered life. She got pregnant at 18 and it was scandalous for her stepfather’s enormous congregation, so he hid Penny away at a home for unwed mothers and she was supposed to put her baby up for adoption. When Belle was born, Penny couldn’t go through with it and took her newborn and escaped to Tarpon Springs, Florida.
Belle
Travis is confident, very outgoing and talks dirty. He and Penny are opposites. She is the good girl that came from a rich family and he is the bad boy from the trailer park. He is an MMA fighter, has a record, had a terrible home life with a drug addicted mother and an absent deadbeat father. The only family he has is his twin sister JL. He has a lot of emotional baggage, quick temper and is used to doing what he wants, when he wants.
Travis
This book has sweet and heat. There are some real feel moments between Travis and Penny that gave me a few heart pangs. Their sexy times are smoking hot with lots of sexual tension. There is even a little suspense. There is funny banter between Travis and Penny, and also between Travis, Penny and the supporting cast members. Belle is adorable and Travis’s interaction with her is both funny and heartwarming.
If you want a sweet and sexy love story, then I recommend Stacked Up. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
BOOK SERIES: Worth the Fight
AUTHOR: Sidney Halston
GENRE: Sports Romance
PUBLICATION DATE: May 31, 2016
CLIFF HANGER: No
4 Stars
SYNOPSIS:
Opposites attract in this seductive novel from the author of Against the Cage (“Funny, steamy, scorching.”—Toni Aleo), with a chiseled MMA fighter falling for a single mom who could use a real man in her corner.
Working two jobs to support her infant daughter is harder than anything Penny Richards has ever done, but it sure beats living under the rules of her stepfather, a television preacher who demands a picture-perfect family. And if Penny hadn’t struck out on her own, she never would have met Travis Calhoun. The intensely physical heavyweight brawler has a way of drawing out her wild side. But Travis lives fast, with no responsibilities—and that just isn’t for Penny.
Most of the women in Travis’s circle wear tight clothes, high heels, and tons of makeup—not pearls or plaid headbands. But once he works past Penny’s inhibitions, Travis discovers a kindred spirit who longs to trust someone with her body, and her secrets. Still, Travis can’t help but wonder if this rich girl is just slumming it before she returns to her privileged life. Now it’s up to Penny to prove that she wants her hard-edged, hard-loving fighter just the way he is.
MY THOUGHTS:
This is the first time I have read an SH book and I was surprised how much I enjoyed it without having read the previous books. This book can be read as a standalone, however, the supporting cast all had previous books. I will definitely go back and read their stories.
I get an unrequited love/friends to lovers feel to this story, as they were both attracted to each other upon meeting, but never acted on it. Travis tried for a year to get Penny to go out with him. He showed up every night at her job at the Pier where she tended bar. Finally, one night, Penny just couldn’t resist the blue-eyed, dimpled cowboy and surrendered to their first kiss. That kiss sealed the deal.
Penny
Penny is a single mom, that needed to escape from Oklahoma from her famous overbearing TV evangelist stepfather. Her mother and biological father are both dead. She is shy and had a very strict and sheltered life. She got pregnant at 18 and it was scandalous for her stepfather’s enormous congregation, so he hid Penny away at a home for unwed mothers and she was supposed to put her baby up for adoption. When Belle was born, Penny couldn’t go through with it and took her newborn and escaped to Tarpon Springs, Florida.
Belle
Travis is confident, very outgoing and talks dirty. He and Penny are opposites. She is the good girl that came from a rich family and he is the bad boy from the trailer park. He is an MMA fighter, has a record, had a terrible home life with a drug addicted mother and an absent deadbeat father. The only family he has is his twin sister JL. He has a lot of emotional baggage, quick temper and is used to doing what he wants, when he wants.
Travis
This book has sweet and heat. There are some real feel moments between Travis and Penny that gave me a few heart pangs. Their sexy times are smoking hot with lots of sexual tension. There is even a little suspense. There is funny banter between Travis and Penny, and also between Travis, Penny and the supporting cast members. Belle is adorable and Travis’s interaction with her is both funny and heartwarming.
If you want a sweet and sexy love story, then I recommend Stacked Up. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
July 31, 2016
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
They say opposites attract and Penny Richards and Travis Calhoun are pretty much the definition of that. Penny is a quiet, sweet, single mom struggling to make ends meet and Travis is a loud mouthed, smartass, cowboy, up and coming MMA athlete who is on a reality show. They couldn't be more different. But it actually that sounds like a match made in heaven doesn't it? ;-)
From the moment Travis meets Penny, he flirts with her. They meet on her first day of work at the Pier and for the next year they see each other almost every day. Despite his constant flirting, Travis makes no headway with Penny at all. Then one night he shows up and Penny happens to be having a bad day and they share a kiss. Talk about an unexpected opportunity. A few days later the two end up going on a kind of date and which ends with them going back to Travis' house.
OH. MY. GOD. Dirty talking Travis is the best kind of Travis. Whew. He gives Penny a night to remember and just went things seem to moving forward with them, he finds out Penny's secret that only JL and Enzo knew about...Penny has a daughter, Sarabelle. Unfortunately, he finds out when things are a bit stressful and and he lashes out. Travis doesn't really like children. He wants Penny, but not her daughter. They have a bit of a falling out over it, but he eventually comes around. And then when Penny's past comes back to haunt her, she ends up having to live at Travis' for some time. And in my opinion, that is when the book really begins. Travis meets Belle and it is ALL OVER. Even I was goner from the first time Belle uttered the word "Twavis." (see the excerpt below) I mean COME ON. How cute is that?
Travis is quite the charmer. I pretty much melted every time he called Penny "Sugar" and that mouth on him...HOLY CRAP. They had some of the hottest sex scenes in this series. I just loved him and Penny together. He brought out the naughty side to her and loved every minute of it. And as much as he said he wasn't fond of children, I had no doubt that he fell in love with Belle as soon as he met her. The longer they stayed with him, the more he fell into the father figure role and he didn't even realize it. Seriously, I could give you multiple excerpts where Travis destroyed my ovaries with his and Belle's interactions. Cuteness overload. And even when he was in deep denial about his feelings and the path their relationship was on, I never doubted his feelings for both of them.
I am so sad that this series is over! Thankfully we get glimpses of the rest of the crew (Hi Cain! I love youuuuu!) in this book. Sidney gave us such a wonderful world with the Worth the Fight series and I will miss them. I just loved all the books and I know that this will be a series that I will reread in the future. Now if only paperbacks existed and I could get my hands on Cain..... :-)
May 31, 2016
* A review copy was provided by the author/publisher via NetGalley for the Blog Tour *
~ 5 Momma and Cowboy Stars ~
What an amazing way to finish this already fabulous series. This book was bittersweet for me because I have loved these characters since the very beginning in Against the Cage. I thought finishing this series with Travis was perfect. I have personally been waiting for his book since we met him back in Book 1.
As I said earlier, Stacked Up is the 6th and final book in Sidney Halston’s Worth the Fight Series. I honestly have to say I think I liked this one almost as much as I liked the first book. This series started out strong and finished just as strong and all the books in the middle were just as great :) This series is one of my all time favorite MMA series. It has the perfect combination of romance, suspense and MMA aspects to give every reader something to enjoy.
I loved the story line of this book. It was one that sucked me in right from the beginning and kept me turning the pages until it was over. I think a lot of that had to do with Travis. I absolutely LOVED him. He is my favorite Hero of this series. He was so broken, but still sweet and charming down to his core. This man had all the aspects of a Cowboy that I love, but wasn’t really a cowboy. As for Penny, I loved her just as much. I give so much credit to single mothers out there, I don’t think I would be able to do alone. I loved that Penny was willing to see past Travis’s hard outer shell and really see who he is on the inside. She was willing to give someone who was so different from herself a chance and it worked out for both of them in the long run. And my goodness, who couldn’t love Belle…she stole my heart in this book.
I thought the pace of the book was really good, it's a fairly quick read but nothing was rushed and I think just enough information was given without it being too much causing it to drag on. This book is part of a series but can be read as a standalone, because as with the other books in this series, each book is about a new couple. This book is a complete story with an great epilogue. Although I did love that we get to see the past couples in this story as well. I think the only thing I would’ve liked a little more of would’ve been a completion of each of the other couples in this series. Like in the epilogue. But that didn’t take away from my enjoyment of this book or series.
So as you can tell I would 100% recommend this book and series to anyone who is a fan of a MMA romance story. You will fall in love with all the characters in these books and I know I am a forever fan of Sidney Halston’s.
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~ 5 Momma and Cowboy Stars ~
What an amazing way to finish this already fabulous series. This book was bittersweet for me because I have loved these characters since the very beginning in Against the Cage. I thought finishing this series with Travis was perfect. I have personally been waiting for his book since we met him back in Book 1.
As I said earlier, Stacked Up is the 6th and final book in Sidney Halston’s Worth the Fight Series. I honestly have to say I think I liked this one almost as much as I liked the first book. This series started out strong and finished just as strong and all the books in the middle were just as great :) This series is one of my all time favorite MMA series. It has the perfect combination of romance, suspense and MMA aspects to give every reader something to enjoy.
I loved the story line of this book. It was one that sucked me in right from the beginning and kept me turning the pages until it was over. I think a lot of that had to do with Travis. I absolutely LOVED him. He is my favorite Hero of this series. He was so broken, but still sweet and charming down to his core. This man had all the aspects of a Cowboy that I love, but wasn’t really a cowboy. As for Penny, I loved her just as much. I give so much credit to single mothers out there, I don’t think I would be able to do alone. I loved that Penny was willing to see past Travis’s hard outer shell and really see who he is on the inside. She was willing to give someone who was so different from herself a chance and it worked out for both of them in the long run. And my goodness, who couldn’t love Belle…she stole my heart in this book.
I thought the pace of the book was really good, it's a fairly quick read but nothing was rushed and I think just enough information was given without it being too much causing it to drag on. This book is part of a series but can be read as a standalone, because as with the other books in this series, each book is about a new couple. This book is a complete story with an great epilogue. Although I did love that we get to see the past couples in this story as well. I think the only thing I would’ve liked a little more of would’ve been a completion of each of the other couples in this series. Like in the epilogue. But that didn’t take away from my enjoyment of this book or series.
So as you can tell I would 100% recommend this book and series to anyone who is a fan of a MMA romance story. You will fall in love with all the characters in these books and I know I am a forever fan of Sidney Halston’s.
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