Challenge

Oni Fighters #3

by Natalie Gayle

How does something so right suddenly go so wrong? Maybe because fate is an evil bitch.

Seth Harris was Onigashima Fighters resident womanizer, party animal and good time guy. He was just as quick with a joke as he was with his fists in the cage. Fast and loose—that’s the way he liked to play it in all aspects of his life. Was that the real Seth or a carefully crafted façade?

Sophia Sommers knew her looks were what everyone noticed first—until she threw a kick punch combination. Few realised, her real gifts were determination, courage and adaptability. Her course was clear and charted…until she let Seth Harris under her guard.

One night— two actions. That’s all it takes to set off a chain reaction that changes the course of their lives.

What happens when fate intervenes and leaves them both reeling, with nothing more than hazy memories of how they landed in their new and terrifying reality?

Will these two very different people accept the challenge fate has dealt them? Or will their inner demons convince them to walk away from a fight harder than they’ve ever faced before?

They must first accept—The hardest demons to defeat are the ones inside. They’ll have to rise to the challenge.

Genres: Sports, Fighters, Romance, Contemporary, Sports Romance, Mixed Martial Arts, Friends To Lovers

349 pages, Unknown Binding

First published May 1, 2016

About the author

I'm a confessed readaholic and romantic junkie. I spend time juggling a busy career as an IT professional and author. In between staring at a computer screen I, enjoy living the Gold Coast life with my very tolerant husband and two school aged children. (I'm often in trouble for spending way too much time at my computer!).

I love nothing more than spending time with family and friends, hitting the beach, cooking, working out and curling up with a good book. My pet hates are cleaning and anything else that can be considered "domestic dullness". If I could have one wish it would be to be able to fit 48 hours into 24.

I tend to write what I like to read books that have the following characteristics:

" Strong characters with lots of development
" Hot romance
" Deep storylines
" Interesting settings
" Real life problems and sensible solutions
" Happily Ever Afters (massive sucker for a good HEA)

Above all, I like to be immersed in the story. Therefore, I want my books to give you the same feeling when you read them. I want you to experience the rollercoaster emotions but end up feeling better and entertained for reading the book. I want you be happy!

I love connecting with my readers. Please sign up to my newsletter and follow me on social media.

Happy Reading

Nat XX

Reviews

[XxTainaxX Curvy and Nerdy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Seth and Sophia have a mutual love of fighting. Little do they know that they would soon be fighting for something meaningful with each other. After an injury causes Seth to step back from fighting, he wants to find his way back to the sport he loves. He is not only dealing with the emotional repercussions of his current situation but also that of a budding relationship with Sophia. For Sophia, what started out a very sexy friends with benefits arrangement, is fast becoming more. The story navigates through their relationship, including an unexpected circumstance. I found the story to be interesting with a good plot. The is filled with depth and emotion. You can tell the author connected with the characters as she wrote. Despite that, there was something missing for me. Though I can't quite put my finger on it, I was just a little hesitant with Seth. It was great to catch up with the other couples. Safety: No OW/OM/Sharing. No rape/abuse.

ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC received for review

4.5 stars

Another great book in the Oni Fighters series. Still loving trying to translate the Australian slang.

Seth and Sophia had a journey full of challenges to get to their HEA. It was different than the previous two books, but just as full of love, friends, laughter, lots of hurdles to overcome, and of course hot sex. Loved Nancy, she was great.

Great epilogue, plus an encore epilogue that was Xander.

Ms. Gayle has note at the end that there are more books to come...I hope Mark is next.

[Michelle Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Challenge
Author:Natalie Gayle
Series:Oni Fighters, Book #3
Publisher:EBS
Reviewer:MAustin
Release Date:7-18-16
Genre(s):MMA Romance
Page Count:349
Heat Level: 4flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:

How does something so right suddenly go so wrong? Maybe because fate is an evil bitch.

Seth Harris was Onigashima Fighters resident womanizer, party animal and good time guy. He was just as quick with a joke as he was with his fists in the cage. Fast and loose—that’s the way he liked to play it in all aspects of his life. Was that the real Seth or a carefully crafted façade?

Sophia Sommers knew her looks were what everyone noticed first—until she threw a kick punch combination. Few realised, her real gifts were determination, courage and adaptability. Her course was clear and charted…until she let Seth Harris under her guard.

One night— two actions. That’s all it takes to set off a chain reaction that changes the course of their lives.

What happens when fate intervenes and leaves them both reeling, with nothing more than hazy memories of how they landed in their new and terrifying reality?

Will these two very different people accept the challenge fate has dealt them? Or will their inner demons convince them to walk away from a fight harder than they’ve ever faced before?

They must first accept—The hardest demons to defeat are the ones inside. They’ll have to rise to the challenge.

Review:
http://i869.photobucket.com/albums/ab...



Challenge by Natalie Gayle was a great 5 star read.

Seth is a womanizer and loves women. He is watching his friends become family men and he definitely doesn't want that.
Sophia is is someone that Seth has known for a lot of years, he no longers see’s her as a little girl but a very hot woman that he wants to get to know a lot better

These two decide to become secret F buddies with no attachment. Until one night Sophie lets something slip that throws Seth off and causes him to step back. Did she really just say that?
On his way home from Sophia’s Seth is in a severe car accident. This is where things really start to change for these two.

We both told ourselves it was only sex, but why did it feel like so much more?

As Seth recovers their secret comes out, Seth struggles with putting a label on what they have. To him it’s not a relationship but his friends see it differently. I’ve never been in a relationship. I’m the king of one-night stands.

When Sophia gets some shocking news it will send their lives into a spiral. How will Seth react? Can they make things work? How will this affect their futures?

I really enjoyed Challenge, it was my first read from Natalie Gayle. Be ready for an emotional read. This is book #3 in the series however can be read as a stand alone. Natalie really pulls you in with her writing. The secondary characters really add a great element to the story. I will definitely have to catch up on this series so I can get to know everyone better. 1-click and get started today.


ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by MAustin from Alpha Book Club

[✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰Janeane ✰]

ARC received for an honest review

It has been a while waiting for Challenge (and I would have waited longer) but it was worth every minute of the wait.

Challenge really is that.. a book full of challenges for our lovelies.

I have been keen to know more about Seth's story since the series started, and wow what a story it is.

Right from the beginning I was drawn in to Seth and Sophia's story. And right from the get go our lovelies were faced with challenge after challenge.

I just wanted, no needed them to get themselves sorted, get thei sh!t together. I could feel it in my bones that they would be wonderful if they could get it right.

Challenge is a very emotional book. There were times when I was brought to tears with what was happening with them. For every two steps forward they were taking one step back.

I wanted to scream at them, I wanted to slap some sense into them. I wanted to throw my kindle across the room with things that were happening... only to have to rush across the room to continue reading.

This pair are fighters - in and out of the dojo. And through it all, this left me with an overwhelming feeling of hope.

I loved that we got more of the Oni fighters, saw more of the relationship between Sophia and her sisters, particular Eden (from Brave). And I loved the banter between the Oni boys Xander, Dane and Seth.

From the moment I started reading Challenge to the very last word, I couldn't but this book down. The story flowed, MS Gayle's word kept me captive in the Oni world and left me wanting more.

Please let us have more.

[Melissa Mendoza · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Challenge
Author: Natalie Gayle
Series: Oni Fighters, Book 3
Release Date: May 2016
Genre(s): Sports Romance
Page Count: 349
Heat Level: 4 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:

How does something so right suddenly go so wrong? Maybe because fate is an evil bitch.

Seth Harris was Onigashima Fighters resident womanizer, party animal and good time guy. He was just as quick with a joke as he was with his fists in the cage. Fast and loose—that’s the way he liked to play it in all aspects of his life. Was that the real Seth or a carefully crafted façade?

Sophia Sommers knew her looks were what everyone noticed first—until she threw a kick punch combination. Few realised, her real gifts were determination, courage and adaptability. Her course was clear and charted…until she let Seth Harris under her guard.

One night— two actions. That’s all it takes to set off a chain reaction that changes the course of their lives.

What happens when fate intervenes and leaves them both reeling, with nothing more than hazy memories of how they landed in their new and terrifying reality?

Will these two very different people accept the challenge fate has dealt them? Or will their inner demons convince them to walk away from a fight harder than they’ve ever faced before?

They must first accept—The hardest demons to defeat are the ones inside. They’ll have to rise to the challenge.

Review:
“I got the smile-the big open one that would stop any guy cold in his tracks. The girl next door, fuck I’m so sexy and I don’t even know it, smile.”

5 Challenged stars!! Another sexy book in the series, that I couldn’t put down!

To say Seth was a womanizer would be an understatement. He’s a fighter with Oni and he’s also the resident bad boy and partier. Sophia was beautiful and she knew that, but she’s also one heck of a fighter. She knows what she wants and she’s going after it, but when Seth comes into her life, it throws her through a loop. One night and many actions later, things change and their outlooks change. Can these two complete opposites work their way together or will their differences and dark pasts throw them apart?

I think this may be my absolute favorite book in the series!! I loved the challenge that Seth and Sophia overcome together and the heat between these two is intense!! I was hooked from page one and I couldn’t put it down!!!


ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club

[Kahea · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Happy sigh* Ms. Gayle has done it again.

Challenge had such a hold on me that when I turned off the lights to go to sleep my mind wouldn’t turn off as it kept wondering what would happen next with Sophia and Seth, and before I knew it I found my hand reaching for my Kindle and not putting it down until I reached the end of their emotional roller coaster of a ride love story.

I loved Sophia. Even when I wanted to smack some sense into her, I loved her. She’s got a good head on her shoulders and when she decides on doing something she goes after it with all her heart. She takes all the necessary steps and doesn’t expect, or want, handouts from anyone. She wants her accomplishments to be based on her own merit and nothing else. Her sense of self, sweetness and confidence in her own abilities was a huge draw and though she has her own oni (demons) she doesn’t let them rule her life.

Seth. I spent equal parts of the book wanting to hug him and smack him, and sometimes I wanted to do them at the same time. The demons from his past ride him hard every day and have caused him to put on the mask of the party boy manwhore so that he can protect his heart, but when that mask slips the man behind it is extremely intelligent, motivated and had a sweetness that had me swoon. Watching as he finally faced the demons of his past and shed the mask he’d always worn was heartbreaking, but to see him become the man he was always meant to be made it all worth it.

Based on what we saw of both Sophia and Seth in Brave and Believe there was doubt in my mind that their story would be an interesting, but even I couldn’t have imagined the demons they would have to face in order to attain their HEA. Their obstacles were actually laid out from the very beginning, so you do get an idea of what is coming, but that meant nothing when the various twists were tossed in. Sophia and Seth were put through the wringer, but came out so much better for it on the other side thanks to the stubborn streak that was strong in both of them and proved that they were made for each other in every way.

I loved catching up with Xander (who is still my favorite) and Eden, Dane (Did anyone else have Switchfoot’s Meant to Live play in the background whenever he was around?), Ariane and Issac and even Reed, who is still a grump. It felt like coming home and catching up with old friends. But my favorite character in this book was Nancy. I seriously want to be her when I grow up. And I’m looking forward to seeing which Onigashima Fighter is up next to have his, or her, world rocked.

~ ARC received via Give Me Books Promotions in exchange for an honest review ~>

[♡ Jeri's Book Attic ♡ Jeri the Romance Bibiliophile ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Natalie Gayle releases with Challenge the third book in the Oni Fighters series. All books can be read as standalones – yet I would recommend reading them in the right order.

During the course of the series the tone and setting seems to be changing. I already felt that Believe (the second book) was different from Brave (the first) – but now with Challenge I am sure of that.

The focus of the story moved from “Fighters having a relationship” to a “Relationships that happen to be between fighters” if you get what I mean.

We get to meet all the characters we loved in the previous books as it is a tight group that will always be there for each other.

And Seth well, even if he does not want the help he will get it so – he’d better get used to it.

We met Sophia already from the first book on but I never had such a clear picture of her so what I so of her in this book was a surprise to me.

And what the Blurb describes as “One night – two actions” really caught me by surprise – well at least on of the two actions – because the one that became obvious early on and was followed by a chain of events that Sophia would have never dreamed of.

And seth – well given his determination to keep things the way they are …it was almost good that he was not able to refuse what followed.

Honestly am I having sadistic tendencies ? when I say – it was a lecture – he might not have deserved but still needed – not only to be able to rise to the challenge but also to accept the concept of love.

[1-Click Addict Support Group · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two strong personalities explosively collide…

“Love and marriage is crazy talk for sure.”

When Seth Harris and Sophia Sommers went from friends to lovers, they both thought they were on the same page. They could be friends while setting the sheets on fire, what could go wrong? Well, anything and everything, of course! When a devastating accident tests their faith in themselves and their relationship, they both are going to go through the wringer to make things right again.

Each character in this series is unique and has their own strengths and weaknesses. What works perfectly is the pairing of each, finding those core traits that make each couple work so well. When one pulls back and the other pushes forward, there has to be something special to keep them coming back for more. That is very much in evidence with Seth and Sophia.

If things are complicated when all is going well, imagine how messy it can get when all goes sideways. And that is definitely what happened to Seth and Sophia. They are fighters, in the ring and out of it, and the spirit that drives them is needed in spades. When things get serious, they seem ill-prepared, but rely on that spirit to keep them afloat through it all. Health issues, dickhead boss troubles, family (oh gawd, the family)—there is a lot going on and the ride was as wonderful as I’d hoped! The emotions that they go through, as they begin to rely on each other for much more than good sex (and it is very good), had me riding their wave right along with them.

With an ensemble ending that spoke directly to my heart, I’m thrilled there are going to be more Fighters!

“You just had to be brave, believe in yourself, and accept the challenge.”

And that’s one of the hardest thing of all, isn’t it? ~ Diane, 5 stars

[Jan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good fighter romance

Characters Seth & Sophia who have both been in previous books finally get to tell their story within the Oni fighters family,.

Seth seems to have relationship phobia so to follow the story to the hea made Challenge a great read.

You get to see the transformation in Seth from playboy to loved up and Sophia get her man & it's a beautiful relationship transformation

Sophia is also a fighter and a character with backbone, she is likable and a great character to follow as the plot progresses.

From the very beginning the plot grabs you and transports you into Sophia & Seth story as it's told in dual pov's.

Action,humor,angst,hotness, heartache and heartwarming moments with great main and extended characters wrapped up in an easy to read package by Natalie Gayle.

Negatives would be it seemed long, so much content, you could of made three story's from the content which was too explanatory and to have an epilogue following an epilogue? but some would class that as a quality and value for money read. I just felt the author loved writing about these characters so much she didn't know when to wrap it up or where to stop.

All that being said I loved the characters and I didn't want it to end either.

I have read the previous book and Challenge is definitely a sign that it gets better as the author progresses and I'm looking forward to more books by this author.

Arc received by netgalley
Bbbf-sizzlereads-bestbookboyfriends & L.A.B.B
FB & Goodreads group
http://www.Bbbf-sizzlereads-bestbookb...

[Romance Readers Retreat · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series just keeps getting better! If you haven't already read the first two books in the Oni Fighters series, then you really must.

Books one (Brave) and two (Believe) are great. Things that happen in these books are mentioned in Challenge too, although not entirely integral to the story. They're each a story of their own but do essentially follow on from one another.

Seth is just my kind of male lead in a book. He's fun, easy going and at first glance, almost shallow. However, as you get to know him (even in the previous books to a small extent) you discover that there's much more than meets the eye.

If you're looking for a strong woman, look no further that Sophia. She can stand her ground against the overprotective, fiercely loyal men that surround her. I'll admit to wanting to slap some sense into her a few times (which is not uncommon for me) but on the whole, she's a great female character.

The sub-characters, a lot of whom you will have met in the first two books, slot perfectly into this story. There's such a sense of loyalty and family values about this book. It's also well written and edited, which always makes it a pleasure to read.

So if you're looking for a book (or new series) to sink your teeth into, I'd recommend this one. You're bound to enjoy it as much as I did.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

Challenge by Natalie Gayle is the third book in the Oni Fighters series. To avoid confusion and learn more about the other characters in this book, I suggest reading the previous books in the series before diving into this one.

Seth Harris is a member of the elite Onigashima Fighters. He is the player of the group hardly ever sleeping with the same girl twice. He comes across as a happy go lucky guy, but is that really who he is?

Sophia Summers is the total package. She knows that she is blessed with the looks and body of a supermodel, but she is so much more than that. After she and those around her realize how talented she is at martial arts, she begins training to become a professional fighter, but fate has other plans.

Seth And Sophia run with the same crowd. They have been seeing each other for three months on the down low, but one night changes everything. They each learn the hard way that actions have consequences. Will they be able to prove that love conquers all?

Overall, I enjoyed this book. The fortitude that Seth and Sophia exhibited was amazing! If your are looking for a love story that is sure to inspire, look no further!

[Renee Entress · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 star

I was pulled right into this story. This story line takes place right along with the 1st book so please read the first book in this series before reading this one. The story has laughs, pain, abuse, and heartbreak.

If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Brave (Oni Fighters, #1)
Believe (Oni Fighters #2)

This is Sophia and Seth’s story. Sophia and Seth were friends with benefits but a few spoken words changed that. The events that happen after those words end up changing both their lives. No one remembers the words spoken. Will they ever remember? Now life is crazy and everything is messed up. They need to decide what they both want from each other. When another compilation comes for them both will it be the end or the new beginning of everything? Can these two handle a future together? What happens when you get what you never knew you wanted? Will you embrace it or throw it away?

I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.

I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.

[MJ's Book Blog and Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review by: Melanie
(4.5 stars)

Book three in the Oni Fighters series has us getting Seth and Sophia's story.

Both in the series from book one, Sophia is Eden's sister and Seth is one of the Oni fighters and best friends with Xander and Dane. Unfortunately Seth is also the one we'd gotten to know as the ladies man of the group. He's not one for commitment and love is like a dirty word to him.

After seeing Dane and Arianne, and Xander and Eden at a child's party one day, the mushy family stuff really gets his issues going and he asks Sophia to take off with him. And so begins the start of a friends with benefits sort of relationship. One fateful night though, events lead to an accident that triggers a rollercoaster of drama and some serious emotional stuff, and both of them questioning where their futures go from there.

I really enjoyed Challenge. It was a great addition to the series and I'm looking forward to seeing where Natalie Gayle will take the series next, now that the three main fighters have found their person. I give Challenge 4.5 stars.

[Stacey · Rating 2 out of 5]

3 stars ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

I've never read the previous books in this series, but they can be read as a standalone as you pretty much hear about the past quite regularly (I get the older sister was in a fire-don't need to keep reminding us).

I found the first 40% of this book to be pretty slow and it did take me all my strength to finish it. Then the epilogue seemed to be really rushed and passed over a few months in a couple of paragraphs each.

Don't get me wrong-I liked the characters and the MMA background they all share. I just think more could have been done with it in regards to expanding and finishing snippets of their lives (did Sophia ever sue her boss? Did she set up her own business as discussed?).

If you've read and enjoyed the other books in this series then chances are you'll be happy with this book, but I just became bored and reading felt like a chore. There was also a really bad use of punctuation in sentences which made me have to re-read lines so it made sense (one of my pet hates!).

[Cathy Geha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Seth and Sophie, friends and lovers, had no idea that one drunken night their lives would change forever. Their friendship is called upon in more ways than one to put their lives back together. With the help of friends and family and their commitment to making it through the challenges they had to face they ultimately ended up with their happily ever after ending. If you like a book written in first person from both the H/h viewpoints that is filled with angst, drama, friendship, caring, highs and lows that ends well for everyone then this is a book I would recommend to you.

An aside: Having worked in Neuro-ICU in the past – I have to say it is tough to be the nurse, patient and/or family in the situation. I admired Michelle for her empathy, nursing skills and ability to be there for everyone. Prognosis is iffy and not always easy to handle by the patient or his/her loved ones.

Thank you to NK Author Services for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[The Book Fairy Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seth and Sophia are the perfect couple. Well non couple that is. They have fun, they party, they hook up. Are they exclusive? Is love something they want? Answers to questions they were not looking to answer until fear sets Seth running. This is a book about more than just love, no this is a book about family whether it is romantic love or the love of your family. It is a book about commitment, and an unplanned future. This book is PERFECT.
I loved how Seth is so close the his friends that he is willing to listen and learn to face some of his fears. Seth's reluctance to move forward protecting his heart, because of his childhood is something that will bring tears to any woman's heart.
Sophia strong, loyal and determined to have the man she loves in her life.
Twists and turns that will have you gasping, Natalie's words will capture your soul and heart!

[Line · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW.. Just wow <3

This was the first book I read from this series and though there is no doubt that something happened before this one I at no point felt I was missing anything.

There story was new and refreshing, emotional and well written. I felt for Seth and I felt like cursing him out at time too, all while understanding that he is a man broken in ways no one ever should be. I also felt incredibly awed by Sophia's strength and how she tackles every obstacle even when she got scared: she is indeed one of those few strong female characters that I always preferred to read about.

All in all a truly breathtaking story which I couldn't put down at all <3

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first page to the very last word this book takes you on a journey of discovery. Challenged by the mistakes of their past and the present day ones, the two protagonists will have you laughing, and crying ,cheering and jeering and running the gamut of emotions as you follow their story. Dont miss this installment in the Oni Fighter series.

[Shari · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story grabbed me and pulled me in from the first page. I enjoyed this story and its characters. The characters were well developed in this book.I liked seeing some old friends and them being happy. This was a good read.
ARC received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg!! What took me so long to get to this book.  I completely love this series and this is am amazing addition and when reading this I realised just how much I love the world of the Oni Figjters.

This story was amazing from the start and just sweeps you away. I lost my temper a lot reading this book and I wanted to hurt Seth so much but be redeems himself and does right by Sophia. The rest of the gang play a huge part in this book too.

When one stupid mistakes almost costs you everything and to get it all right in the world you have to take on the challenge. Would you be game. I would. This is a huge recommend from me

[Glenda Bettin · Rating 5 out of 5]

she just blows me away at what an awesome writer she is. I want more of this series

[Candy76 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very good read. Natalie takes on a personal journey of a real life situation and you'll see that certain challenges can be overcome and accomplished.
Seth and Sophia meet again at a birthday party for a mutual friend, Seth is uncomfortable and asks Sophia if she wants to leave with him. They leave together and three months later are still together, but in secret. Sophia is starting out training to become an MMA fighter whereas Seth is already there. Seth has demons that stop him from becoming close with any female, but Sophia is different and when she says "I Love You" to him he runs. Seth gets in an accident and Sophia realizes that she wants nothing more than to be by Seth's side and has to tell the rest of their friends they'd been secretly seeing each other. Cat's otta the bag but Seth is in a coma so he doesn't know yet till he eventually wakes up. Seth finally wakes up after a week with no recollection as to why the accident happened. Sophia is there by his side and he is happy for the most part till he receives the news and extent of his injuries, then he becomes the worst patient and the worst "fiancee". Seth doesn't understand that in order for there to be a next of kin, his friends lied and said Sophia was his fiancee which they clue him in on later. As Seth struggles to get better, him and Sophia do get closer but he is a bit unbearable and Sophia lays it out there (again) that she loves him and the ball is in his court. Seth is dumbfounded and his closest friend give him sage advice that he takes to heart and really thinks about. Seth gets out of the hospital to have Sophia play his nurse and she is fine with that as long as he doesn't push himself. Their relationship grows and they open up to each other bit by bit just the way Sophia wants it until.... Sophia is training and she didn't feel good in the first place but goes ahead to train and faints. Oh she has been nauseated a couple times too. Eden her sister takes her to the hospital to find out what's wrong....doctor mentions she could be pregnant but she can't fathom that kind of info till the results come from the blood tests. Confirmation, Sophia is indeed pregnant................SHOCK. I'm gonna let off here because you need to pick this one up to read in order to find out what happens cause I've given you enough to start your mind thinking.
Natalie writes this story with first person POV from the main characters and this is my favorite style now a days. Her writing just flows from one character to another, she grabs you and you can't wait to see what happens next.
This is a must read even though there are two other books before this one is seems they are stand alone but if I'm wrong you get caught up in the series either way.
***Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Reads - ARC provided for a honest review ***

[Monica Cardoza · Rating 5 out of 5]

A relationship goes through so many struggles and it’s a whirlwind of emotions and there are many curves and bumps that one has to deal with. These two characters are strong and only time will tell if they are going to be able to survive their hurdles.

This is my first read by Natalie Gayle and I can’t wait to read the previous two book in this awesome series Oni Fighters. There were many things that I loved about this story but one thing that stood out was the development of the characters. I loved that I was able to learn about Seth and Sophia and their past. I was able to know why Seth seemed so closed off towards love. I learned more about Sophia and what she went through in the fire the fire in which her sister was scarred in. They both had so much chemistry and they were perfect for each other but life got in the way.

The night of the accident both Seth and Sophia were too drunk and Seth did something that he never should have and that was get behind the wheel drunk. He ended up freaking out and that got him in very big trouble. Sophia’s heart stopped when she found out about him being hurt and in the hospital. It was going to be a very long recovery and she decided that she wanted to help him in the hospital and when he left. He was in coma and that was going to be best silence because when he woke up oh my he was cranky. Seth was a sweetheart but it seemed that he turned into a tornado. He had the nurses not wanting to take care of him except for one and she gave it to him and told him the truth about his behavior. I knew that soon Seth would remember what happened that night and when he did he was going to lash out. I also knew that when the symptoms started for Sophia I knew that she was going to take it hard because she had her life planned out. But I also knew that Seth was going to freak out even more. I also loved that he was able to talk to his stepfather and clear up his childhood it was something that he needed to do. I know that in that talk he learned so much and only time would tell if he could have a relationship with his parents. In the end Seth and Sophia had one more major hurdle to cross and that was when I know I got sentimental. I love how Seth stepped up to the plate and took care of her and made sure he was there for every step.

Challenge is the final installment in the Oni Fighters series. I was enthralled with this read I couldn’t stop reading I needed to know what was going to happen between them. I loved that this story had a epilogue and an extended epilogue and can’t wait to read the new series. I loved that this story not only had her POV but also his POV. I loved being able to know what each character is thinking. The chemistry that Seth and Sophia had was sizzling HOT and passionate when they were together. They deserved to be happy.

I totally recommend this read!!

Received ARC in exchange for an Honest Review

[Catherine Bibby (Rochelle's Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

After reading Brave and Believe and stepping into the fictional Onigashima dojo with all the delicious, upstanding heros who fight along side their ladies to conquer their demons, I have become enchanted and have fallen madly in love with Natalie Gayle's writing and her inspiration characters. Is the passion between her characters scorching hot? Absolutely! But what brands her stories upon my heart is their meaning and the bravery of the hero and heroine to overcome and pursue their love and happiness. Seth and Sophia take readers on a journey that is wrought with struggles, heat, fears, and a love that stands against any adversity.

Seth Harris is a born fighter, popular with the women, and always jovial. That is until he becomes entangled with the beautiful, head strong Sophie and his life is hurtled down a dark path. Sophie soon gets to see that Seth is a “still waters run deep” person, even if he hides that part of himself away from his friends and family's eyes. Natalie paints a picture of a man of strength becoming shattered and broken, who has to learn to rely on those that he loves to help him become again who he once was. I absolutely adored Seth with his cocky confidence, dirty talk and hip action, along with his wounded little boy soul. If he wasn't breaking my heart with his story, he was leaving me hot and bothered with his intense, steamy sessions with Sophia, or making my fingers itch to shake the stubbornness from him. He is complex, hot, and worthy of Sophia's love.

Sophia Sommers is a woman who has a heart of gold, shoulders a guilt that won't go away, can hold her own in a fight, and has her sights set on certain sexy muscled fighter. When she and Seth end up on a collision course of events that they never could have saw coming, they find a strength inside that is a force unlike any that they have ever encountered in a fight. They learn to do battle with their hearts as well as their fist. Sophie is the epitome of bad ass with her athletic body, courage, and willingness to stand up to anyone who gets in her way, including Seth himself. When Natalie created Sophia, she brought to life a heroine that shows how sexy and strong a woman can be both inside and out.

Natalie Gayle delivers another memorable story that has the hero and heroine punching and kicking their way into our hearts. I highly recommend Challenge for a book that is high on steam and has us riding waves of emotion from beginning to end. Natalie captivates and draws readers into a world that inspires us to fight our own demons while falling in love with another melt in your mouth MMA fighter. I feel like I have grown right along with all of the characters in the Oni Fighters series and I am already anxiously awaiting the next sexy package of muscles with a big heart that Natalie will introduce us to next.

[Georgie]

**ARC kindly provided for an honest review**

I've been waiting for something on Sophia ever since we met her in Brave as Eden's sister!!!

Let me tell ya - Natalie Gayle did not disappoint!

ONE night
TWO actions...
That's ALL it takes...
to change the course of their lives!

Talk about an overload of FEELS!

There’s a man-whore party boy AND a chick who is tough as fuck!


But these two….are fighters!!!


The title sums this one up perfectly– the challenges thrown at these two from the start are enough to make you pause and be like “what the fuck did I just read?!”

I was a bit frustrated with them not getting their shit together (when I wanted them to) but sometimes that’s the best part of a book….pace yourself with this one peeps – it is definitely worth it in the end!

Like the other two books in this amazing series Natalie Gayle has knocked this fucker right out!

Ticking all the boxes - great story, great chemistry between the two mains and hello – I am so not complaining that we get some more Dane and Xander! WINNING!!!!

A must read if you have a need for hot fighters and tough as fuck chicks!

5+ stars for this one...

and if you haven’t read the other two in the series you may as well throw in the towel now – cus you are missing out!

just sayin'..........







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ONI FIGHTERS SERIES....
#1 Brave - FREE
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#2 Believe
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[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been a fan of Natalie Gayle since she first wrote Brave, the first book in the Oni Fighters series, and now I’m lucky enough to have gotten an ARC of Challenge in exchange for an honest review:) I have loved this series, and it’s close to my heart because Brave (the first book of the series) was my first MMA romance and it got me hooked! Natalie Gayle is also the first author where I became a part of her book group to help promote indie authors and helped inspire me to start my blog.

Seth is the party animal. Mr. popular who’s always happy and everyone loves him, especially the ladies. You’ll never find him with the same girl twice though, until Sophia. No one could see the emotions he hides beneath his smile. What will it finally take to get him to face his demons head on instead of running?

Sophia Sommers is a fighter. She trains hard and works hard to accomplish her goals. Seth Harris gets under her skin though. She’s falling for him, hard and fast, but she knows he doesn’t do relationships. Can she get him to let her in and not run away when emotions start to come to the surface?

When one night changes everything can Sophia and Seth rise to the Challenge and face their demons head on? They will have to fight harder than they have ever fought before, but will it be enough to hold them together, or will it rip them apart?

This book wasn’t exactly what I was expecting when I read it, but I loved it. Ive been waiting to get into Seth’s head since Brave, and it was definitely a crazy ride. There were so many emotions at play in this book, and Natalie writes her scenes beautifully. She really brings out the personalities in her characters. Another amazing book in teh Oni Fighters world, and I hope there will be more, because I REALLY want more Xander!!! Especially after reading the epilouge

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seth Harris is a partying, womanizing, all-around good time guy. He likes to have fun and isn’t too serious about anything but his fighting at Onigashima. Always joking around and the life of the party, but is this persona just a façade to hide who he really is? Sophia Sommers is usually first noticed because of her looks and then shocks people with her talent as a fighter. She is also known for her determination, courage, and adaptability. What starts out as a friends with benefits quickly sets both Seth and Sophia on a path neither saw coming. Now they must deal with the hand that fate has dealt them. Will they be able to overcome their demons and embrace their new reality?

This book is the third installment of the Oni Fighters series. I did not read the first two but I don’t think it’s necessary to understand the story of this book. I think the first two will give great insight into everyone’s background but I didn’t feel lost or that I was missing important information from not reading the first two. With that being said, I really loved this book and there is a good chance I’ll go back and read the previous ones. I really wasn’t sure what to expect with this book but fell in love with it immediately. True to its title, this book was filled with challenges that Seth and Sophia had to overcome on their own as well as together. This story was heartbreaking, nerve-wracking, but filled with so much love. The only thing I had a problem with was the Australian slang that was used here and there. While I didn’t really take me out of the story and I was usually able to figure out what they were talking about, I think if I knew for sure it’d flow a little better for me. Overall, I really loved this book and would definitely read more from this author.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Books Laid Bare · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sophia and Seth are ready to share their story and it is one that you are going to want to read.
This is a book that requires complete attention while you are reading, there is more than one occasion when I had to put the kindle down and take a deep breath. The story was so full on that actually accepting what the heck was happening was a full time job!
The title Challenge was certainly apt, the whole story was packed with so many twists and turns that almost from the first page, I knew that I had to keep my wits about me.
I was aware of Seth from the previous books or more to the point I was aware of his reputation, he wasn’t exactly hurting for female company, Seth liked the ladies and the ladies loved him, but the word love held no place in his vocabulary and as far as he was concerned it never would…or so he thought
Because after seeing the other guys and their partners he actually began to question what he wanted and knowing Sophia they hitched up a pseudo friends with benefits arrangement and after a series of what can only be described as unfortunate events, culminating in a cataclysmic event they were left with little choice but to re-evaluate their whole situation.
The whole story was more than I anticipated, there were issues raised that were completely unique, and decisions that were made that while questionable at first showed the depth with which Sophia and Seth had changed on the journey that they had taken.
I don’t know where the author is looking to take the series in the future if of course she has plans to continue now that the three main men have found their futures.

[Mindy Bigham · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review*

Seth Harris is known as a party animal. Not wanting any kind of relationship or any real commitment, thanks to upbringing. Being in a MMA fighter he can get any girl that he wants but his eyes are set on Sophia. Now that he has returned and she is not that little girl anymore but all woman he cannot seem to keep his hands off of her.

Sophia Sommers is training to become an MMA fighter. Being blessed with great looks makes it hard to get the attention that she wants. She wants someone to see past her looks and see the real her. She knows what she wants in life and is determined to make it happen.

Seth and Sophia become really great friends with benefits. They love to party together. When one night the parting goes too far and the passion is blazing the rest of their life will be up in the air. Two things happen at once that change the course of their entire life. Seth gets into an accident that is going to take a lot of recovery. If only either one of them could remember that night they might find out why he was driving in the first place.

This is the third book in the Oni Fighters series. Although this is the first one that I have read I really loved this story. The characters are all so strong and have to deal with some very intense issues. Not only are Seth and Sophia great but their family as well. Seth will learn some troubling facts about his past and Sophia has to decide what to do with her future. Together they make a great team especially when they are up against a challenge.

[Heather 123 · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have to admit I almost stopped reading this book within the first few pages. I struggled connecting with Seth; he just seemed to be down on himself despite everything that he had going for him. The struggles that the fighter's face in this series is nothing new, but the other books don't open with such a winy moment like I felt this one did. If I hadn't read the other two books in this series, I probably would have stopped reading this one entirely. However given how much I enjoyed the other two books, I pressed on and finished this book.

As compared to the other two stories, this book fell a little short for me. Unlike the other two books, Sophia didn't have any real issues of her own. The books opens with Seth and Sophia already together, engaging in hot, drunk sex. Their lives are forever changed that night in more ways than one. While I enjoyed reading about how their lives are changed, I felt sort of let down that we didn't read how Seth and Sophia ended up hooking up for the first time (except the mention of them ditching a party together). Obviously they knew each other from the dojo, but I would have liked to read more about how they noticed each other there or was it that neither noticed the other until that party? The other two books in the series start with us reading about how the couple meets and then the drama starts.

Overall not a bad book, just one that I can't seem to stop comparing to the first two in the series. While this can be read as a standalone, I think you understand a lot more if you have read the other two books in this series.

** ARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review **