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Fighting #6
Fighting Fate
Fate can either deliver a happily ever after, or a sucker-punch that will destroy everything…
Killian
I had two dreams.
Fighting for UFL…and Axelle Daniels.
She claimed my soul the first time we met. She was my best friend.
For years, I watched her give her time—and body—to men who didn’t deserve to breathe her air. I waited for the right moment to make her mine.
And when I got my chance, I vowed I’d do anything to make her happy forever.
Too bad fate had other plans…
Axelle
I screwed up. Big time.
Parties, hangovers, men…I did it all. None of it filled the cracks in my heart or hid what a mess I was on the inside.
Only Killian knew the real me.
But he deserved better. I was broken, and he shouldn’t have to hold me together.
So, I let him go.
He left to pursue his fighting dreams. My life kept falling apart.
Now, he’s back. And I’m left wondering if this second chance is our destiny, or our downfall…
Fighting Fate, book 6 in the Fighting series, is an emotional, angsty, contemporary, steamy, sports/MMA romance with a guaranteed HEA. Download today to get ready to fall even harder for Killian and Axelle.
Killian
I had two dreams.
Fighting for UFL…and Axelle Daniels.
She claimed my soul the first time we met. She was my best friend.
For years, I watched her give her time—and body—to men who didn’t deserve to breathe her air. I waited for the right moment to make her mine.
And when I got my chance, I vowed I’d do anything to make her happy forever.
Too bad fate had other plans…
Axelle
I screwed up. Big time.
Parties, hangovers, men…I did it all. None of it filled the cracks in my heart or hid what a mess I was on the inside.
Only Killian knew the real me.
But he deserved better. I was broken, and he shouldn’t have to hold me together.
So, I let him go.
He left to pursue his fighting dreams. My life kept falling apart.
Now, he’s back. And I’m left wondering if this second chance is our destiny, or our downfall…
Fighting Fate, book 6 in the Fighting series, is an emotional, angsty, contemporary, steamy, sports/MMA romance with a guaranteed HEA. Download today to get ready to fall even harder for Killian and Axelle.
169 pages, ebook
First published May 3, 2016
150 people are currently reading
1848 people want to read
About the author
J.B. Salsbury
38 books5,367 followersJ.B. Salsbury is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author. She lives in Phoenix, Arizona with her husband and two kids.
Her love of good storytelling led her to earn a degree in Media Communications. With her journalistic background, writing has always been at the forefront, and her love of romance propelled her career as an author.
She spends the majority of her day behind the computer where a world of battling alphas, budding romance, and impossible obstacles claws away at her subconscious and begs to be released to the page.
Never miss a release:
http://jbsalsbury.com/newsletter-sign...
For more information on
her books, or just to say hello, visit JB on her website, Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Web: http://www.jbsalsbury.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/JBSalsburybooks
T: https://twitter.com/JBSalsbury
IG: https://www.instagram.com/jbsalsbury/
Her love of good storytelling led her to earn a degree in Media Communications. With her journalistic background, writing has always been at the forefront, and her love of romance propelled her career as an author.
She spends the majority of her day behind the computer where a world of battling alphas, budding romance, and impossible obstacles claws away at her subconscious and begs to be released to the page.
Never miss a release:
http://jbsalsbury.com/newsletter-sign...
For more information on
her books, or just to say hello, visit JB on her website, Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Web: http://www.jbsalsbury.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/JBSalsburybooks
T: https://twitter.com/JBSalsbury
IG: https://www.instagram.com/jbsalsbury/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 256 reviews
February 10, 2019
******Spoiler Alert ******
You better prepare yourself because this review is contradictory and makes little sense. But that’s how I feel. Conflicted. And PISSED OFF.
In short, this is how it went down:
I picked up this book because I just knew I would love it. I had loved the first five books. This author had never failed me. And I wasn’t wrong. It was amazing. I was loving every minute of it. The hero was to die for, the story was gripping, the writing was phenomenal and my feelings were all over the place. Just how I like it.
At first I was excited and enthusiastic.
Then I felt happiness and joy. The book was awesome.
Next, I was hit with apprehension, nervousness, fear, anxiety, inner turmoil, sadness, misery, hopelessness, uncertainty, heartache. And then some more heartache. It wasn’t easy.
But then.... Then came DISBELIEF. Wait a minute.... Did I read that right? No, that’s not possible. No. He wouldn’t do that. I mean, it wasn’t explicit... Besides, we’re talking about epic love here. Right?
YEAH, RIGHT.
I know, I know. Technically, it’s not cheating. Well, FUCK technically.
Excuse me for my language. But was that really necessary? And why wasn’t it a big deal? Surely this tiny {insert snorting sound here} issue would be addressed in the book more seriously sooner or later. Right? WRONG.
Finally, I was left with defeat and numbness. I just skimmed through the last thirty pages. And yes, the ending is perfect. But have you ever tried eating chocolate with its wrapping on? Me neither, not intentionally at least. But you know what I’m trying to say.
But.
When I think about this book, I mean, really, really think about it... I LOVED it.
Is it fair to give it a lower rating just because of one detail? I don’t know. Maybe it is, maybe it isn’t. A lot of readers would punish this severly. I decided to wait for a few days before writing the review, you know just to calm my feels. Sadly, it didn't help.
It’s a shame, really, because this could have easily been a five-star read for me. I practically inhaled this book in a few hours. I never got bored, I was one hundred percent invested all the time. And the effect this book had on me? It's huge. I mean, I’m still pissed off after two days, aren’t I?
As much as it pains me to say this, I’m taking off two stars for the hero's "tiny" lapse of judgement.
QUICK REVIEW:
Enjoyment: 3/5
Writing style: 4/5
Storyline: 3/5
Originality: 3/5
Hero: 2/5
Heroine: 4/5
Secondary characters: 5/5
Hotness/steam: 3/5
Romance: 3/5
Angst/feels: 4/5
Darkness level: 2/5
Humor: 2/5
Depth of the book: 3/5
POV: dual, 1st person
Recommended for: fans of Katy Evans (Real series), Aly Martinez (On the Ropes series)
Trigger warning:
October 19, 2019
It really sucks when an author gives you the hero of your dreams and then crushes the fucking shit out of it.
I was so beyond ecstatic to find a book where it's the hero that's been saving himself and pining over the heroine. At the start of the book Killian was absolutely swoon worthy. I honestly thought if the book continued in the direction I had been at the start that he alone would have made the book 5 stars. But we don't always get what we want.
We constantly get the virgin heroine that's pining for a man whore like the pathetic doormat that she is. It was just so refreshing to think maybe MAYBE just once the hero would be the one to have only one sexual partner (the heroine) throughout the entire book. BUT MOTHER FUCKING NO! The author just had to shit all over this damn book.
So throughout the years Axelle and Killian have been friends he has been completely in love with her but forced to see her date guys that treat her like shit. He is working on making himself "worthy" of her and he pushes away any advances from OW because she's all he wants. I loved the fact that even though he saw her with OM he didn't stray. During those years when he was working on making himself good enough for her SHE HAD FEELINGS FOR HIM TOO! If he had opened is dumb shit fucking mouth he could have been with her the whole time!
It was just perfect...until it wasn't.
So when they finally sleep together and he loses his virginity to her something ends up happening and they separate for a year. AND OF MOTHER FUCKING COURSE HE SLEEPS WITH ANOTHER WOMAN DURING THE SEPARATION AND SHE STAYS CELIBATE.How often are we forced to read detailed sex scenes with the hero and OW or of the heroine watching the love of her life date countless women and yet stay celibate for his bitch ass?
Really?! REALLY?! You couldn't just keep them both celibate? I mean wtf dude!? It completely shit all over a book I was so sure was going to be a 4-5 star read for me. I'm so angry that the author didn't let him just stay celibate. I mean what's the point of giving me a virgin hero only for him to fuck other women during their separation? There was just too much bullshit with OW/OM for my taste
Some people will say that this is hypocritical since she dated others while he was a virgin their first few years of friendship but SO WHAT? We ALWAYS have to read about the man whore getting the virgin and then fucking his way through the female population when they separate while she continues to remain celibate. Sometimes the author had the heroine stay celibate for 5-10 years!
to me this was cheating they were with each other sexually and he was in love with her. So to ME*HINT HINT TROLLS THAT LIKE TO BITCH ABOUT MY REVIEWS* it was 100% cheating for him to have slept with OW while in Europe
I'm so angry I will never let this author fool me again.
cya
September 24, 2016
Fighting Fate is the 6th book in JB Salsbury's Fighting series and one I've been highly anticipating since book 2. This is Killian and Axelle's story. I can't tell you how long I've waited for this book. Killer has been one of my favorite characters in this series, and I just knew from the start he and Axelle would end up together. Or at least I hoped ;) When I heard they were getting their own book I was ecstatic.
I'm honestly not sure what to say about this one. There were parts I loved, parts I felt that the characters were true to themselves and who they've been from the start... but oh my goodness. There were some parts that really stressed me out and made the story unenjoyable for me, and also made some of my favorite characters not so favorite. Overall, I was happy with the ending, I just wish Axelle and Killer's ride wouldn't have been quite so bumpy. I feel that they're story had the potential to be epic but missed the mark for me.I'm sure my expectations were just too high as I long time fan. Still, I love this series and I'm sad to see it's over.
April 6, 2016
☆ I received an ARC via the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ☆
Wah, such a beauteous combination of unconditional love and friendship that transcends through time, space, continents, and utter heartbreak!!
Axelle is by far one the most scarred and broken characters within the Fighting Series. We are introduced to her in bk2 of the series, and from there and to now, we learn the circumstances leading up to her birth and her inner turmoil that she feels towards herself.
SHE’S a girl who does not feel worthy. And yet, in HIS eyes, she has everything he could ever want.
Axelle drowns herself in destructive ways and individuals but the only person who has always been the light in the midst and her protector throughout, has been her best friend Killian. The boy who has always been secretly and madly in love with her. And the boy she's always been in love with since the day she had asked him to the Valentine's Day dance, but never felt good enough for.
Now both college students at UNLV, Killian wants to finally let his intentions towards Axelle known at the risk of jeopardizing his heart and future.
Can Killian claim the girl of his dreams?....
Should he take off from school and represent the USA in the UFL while being stationed in the UK?...
And with one HUGE revelation about to be unfold, is Killian's love enough to stand testament to what's about to come?.... Can he hold onto the girl who is his reason for being, while also giving her a reason to live for herself as well?
He has always been her savior, but sometimes she needs to save herself as well and fight for herself. To fight for him.
I have to say, I REALLY LOVED Killian.
He has had a hard life himself but he chooses not to dwell within the bad and looks optimistically toward the good. He is the epitome of book boyfriends and will be loyal to you by a fault. He goes in all or nothing and to him, Axelle is his sun and muse for existence. He will always be by her side. That is, unless he is told that he is not wanted.
For Axelle, her emptiness bled through the pages of my kindle. Though she has a loving mom, step dad and new baby brother, she still feels the pangs of betrayal regarding her birth father and the rejection that came with it. She dallies into meaningless interactions with boys on campus to fill a sort of void for her, unbeknownst to her, that what she’s been looking for has and has always been right in front of her.
How much is enough before she pushes the one other good thing in her life that makes complete sense before it goes away forever? And can she ever win him back?
Author JB Salsbury has done it again with a poignant and soul-searching read about love, family, friendship, self-worth and self-identity.
Killian and Axelle’s story was not an easy one but never has the course of love ever sailed smoothly. Some parts were lovely and inspiring while some were devastating and made me gnaw on my arm.
For some reason during the course of reading, I kept playing Sara Bareilles’s “Gravity” as I felt it depicted this raw and vulnerable dilemma felt by Axelle. Yes, the song is portraying a tale of two lovers, but I feel where this song fits into the whole gist of things, is the similar backings of wanting freedom from something but feeling an emotional hold from someone. In this case, for Axelle, it comes from her dad which leads to her self-identity crisis. It weighs heavy on her, and although she wants to escape from it, she cannot. She wants to be set free from this burden and live a happy life with her family and love herself but she struggles immensely throughout.
As for Axelle's and Killian's romance, now that I think of it... in ties to Bareille's song, it represents both characters approach to love in entirely in opposite ways. Whereas Killian is strongly upfront and passionately in love with Axelle and is not in conflict with his feelings about her. In Axelle's case, however, she is also undoubtedly in love with Killian but fights it every step of the way; and yet, can't seem to break the pull of gravity that pulls her back to Killian.
Will they stop fighting the inevitable and give into what has always been fated by destiny? Or will they choose to leave it all behind? Some things are worth fighting for...
A beautifully written, tear jerking, AND ALSO frustrating read!! JB Salsbury, you are among my top 5 go to authors that I’m always excited to see what you have next and am never disappointed with what you have to deliver! I really hope you plan to write a story on Ryder, as I’m ever so growing curious about him!!
Wah, such a beauteous combination of unconditional love and friendship that transcends through time, space, continents, and utter heartbreak!!
Axelle is by far one the most scarred and broken characters within the Fighting Series. We are introduced to her in bk2 of the series, and from there and to now, we learn the circumstances leading up to her birth and her inner turmoil that she feels towards herself.
SHE’S a girl who does not feel worthy. And yet, in HIS eyes, she has everything he could ever want.
Axelle drowns herself in destructive ways and individuals but the only person who has always been the light in the midst and her protector throughout, has been her best friend Killian. The boy who has always been secretly and madly in love with her. And the boy she's always been in love with since the day she had asked him to the Valentine's Day dance, but never felt good enough for.
Now both college students at UNLV, Killian wants to finally let his intentions towards Axelle known at the risk of jeopardizing his heart and future.
Can Killian claim the girl of his dreams?....
Should he take off from school and represent the USA in the UFL while being stationed in the UK?...
And with one HUGE revelation about to be unfold, is Killian's love enough to stand testament to what's about to come?.... Can he hold onto the girl who is his reason for being, while also giving her a reason to live for herself as well?
He has always been her savior, but sometimes she needs to save herself as well and fight for herself. To fight for him.
I have to say, I REALLY LOVED Killian.
He has had a hard life himself but he chooses not to dwell within the bad and looks optimistically toward the good. He is the epitome of book boyfriends and will be loyal to you by a fault. He goes in all or nothing and to him, Axelle is his sun and muse for existence. He will always be by her side. That is, unless he is told that he is not wanted.
For Axelle, her emptiness bled through the pages of my kindle. Though she has a loving mom, step dad and new baby brother, she still feels the pangs of betrayal regarding her birth father and the rejection that came with it. She dallies into meaningless interactions with boys on campus to fill a sort of void for her, unbeknownst to her, that what she’s been looking for has and has always been right in front of her.
How much is enough before she pushes the one other good thing in her life that makes complete sense before it goes away forever? And can she ever win him back?
Author JB Salsbury has done it again with a poignant and soul-searching read about love, family, friendship, self-worth and self-identity.
Killian and Axelle’s story was not an easy one but never has the course of love ever sailed smoothly. Some parts were lovely and inspiring while some were devastating and made me gnaw on my arm.
For some reason during the course of reading, I kept playing Sara Bareilles’s “Gravity” as I felt it depicted this raw and vulnerable dilemma felt by Axelle. Yes, the song is portraying a tale of two lovers, but I feel where this song fits into the whole gist of things, is the similar backings of wanting freedom from something but feeling an emotional hold from someone. In this case, for Axelle, it comes from her dad which leads to her self-identity crisis. It weighs heavy on her, and although she wants to escape from it, she cannot. She wants to be set free from this burden and live a happy life with her family and love herself but she struggles immensely throughout.
As for Axelle's and Killian's romance, now that I think of it... in ties to Bareille's song, it represents both characters approach to love in entirely in opposite ways. Whereas Killian is strongly upfront and passionately in love with Axelle and is not in conflict with his feelings about her. In Axelle's case, however, she is also undoubtedly in love with Killian but fights it every step of the way; and yet, can't seem to break the pull of gravity that pulls her back to Killian.
Will they stop fighting the inevitable and give into what has always been fated by destiny? Or will they choose to leave it all behind? Some things are worth fighting for...
A beautifully written, tear jerking, AND ALSO frustrating read!! JB Salsbury, you are among my top 5 go to authors that I’m always excited to see what you have next and am never disappointed with what you have to deliver! I really hope you plan to write a story on Ryder, as I’m ever so growing curious about him!!
cheating
November 18, 2016Passin on this one because what a waste of a virgin hero.
May 6, 2016
3.5 Quick Kill Stars
This is probably one of my favorite fighting series...I feel like I went on this journey with each character! I Loved Killian as a scrawny nerd looking for more and Axelle, the lost girl who found a family in a gym full of MMA fighters!
I feel like this is a total coming of age for this series. I fell hard for the author in book one and watched each character get their very own HEA. I always love when the offspring grow up and take on the starring role of the stories. Axelle, while brought up with a loving mom and residing in the protective arms of Blake Daniels, she seems to have everything. But in reality she is so broken inside that it is tedious and painful to read. Her only constant in her best friend Killian McCreery, a once awkward teen whose beauty would soon catch up to those smarts!
This should have been such a slam dunk romance. It could have been so easy but that age old young immaturity and inability to communicate causes so much heartbreak between two people who where so in love and always meant to be. I could easily do a review full of screams and rants as there were so many bad decisions and so many moments cringe worthy moments but like the previous books in the series, well angst and drama are not foreign!
So while I was annoyed with a young, naïve and very dumb Axelle at times, I also fell for a young beautiful soul in Killian. He was so good, so patient and so loyal. He waited his whole life for Axelle and getting her would not be easy! Axelle was in a constant battle with no self-esteem, and Kill was willing to throw the opportunity to live his dream away. It was a bit of a train wreck of young love and self-sacrifice that would only end in regret
So with a lot of goodbyes, tears, heartbreaking moments, bad decisions and poor communication. Axelle and Killian grow up and apart...but they never lose one another within their minds and hearts. Like I already said, the journey is tedious but I enjoyed the ride and loved the ending!
This is probably one of my favorite fighting series...I feel like I went on this journey with each character! I Loved Killian as a scrawny nerd looking for more and Axelle, the lost girl who found a family in a gym full of MMA fighters!
I feel like this is a total coming of age for this series. I fell hard for the author in book one and watched each character get their very own HEA. I always love when the offspring grow up and take on the starring role of the stories. Axelle, while brought up with a loving mom and residing in the protective arms of Blake Daniels, she seems to have everything. But in reality she is so broken inside that it is tedious and painful to read. Her only constant in her best friend Killian McCreery, a once awkward teen whose beauty would soon catch up to those smarts!
This should have been such a slam dunk romance. It could have been so easy but that age old young immaturity and inability to communicate causes so much heartbreak between two people who where so in love and always meant to be. I could easily do a review full of screams and rants as there were so many bad decisions and so many moments cringe worthy moments but like the previous books in the series, well angst and drama are not foreign!
So while I was annoyed with a young, naïve and very dumb Axelle at times, I also fell for a young beautiful soul in Killian. He was so good, so patient and so loyal. He waited his whole life for Axelle and getting her would not be easy! Axelle was in a constant battle with no self-esteem, and Kill was willing to throw the opportunity to live his dream away. It was a bit of a train wreck of young love and self-sacrifice that would only end in regret
So with a lot of goodbyes, tears, heartbreaking moments, bad decisions and poor communication. Axelle and Killian grow up and apart...but they never lose one another within their minds and hearts. Like I already said, the journey is tedious but I enjoyed the ride and loved the ending!
May 3, 2016
When I found out that Axelle and Killian were getting a book, I did a little happy dance ;)
(it wasn't pretty)
So ...like I said, this book is about Axelle and Killian, who we've come to know in Blake's book (2). I have loved those two kids ever since, so I was very curious to see what happens to them.
Four years have past since that fatefull valentines day. The day Killian was supposed to pick up Axelle for a date, but everything ended in a disaster....
For four years Killian has been head over heals in love with Axelle, being her rock, her support and her best friend. That's right....he got friendzoned. He has been by her side through everything, watching men treat her like crap..yet he's always there to pick up her broken pieces. After 4 years he's still trying to muster up the courage to tell her about his real feelings.
Axelle has been kinda lost ever since that horrible valentine's day 4 years ago. She has some major selfesteem problems and the fact that she's still in love with her best friend is not really helping her. Axelle doesn't see herself as worthy...especially for such an awesome man as Killian. He has been her one man support group for so long...always by her side whenever she needs him. If only he would feel the same way about her as she does about him...
I felt sad for the way Axelle was letting herself be treated...and especially for the fact that she didn't think she was worth more than that. So I was delighted when Killian finally made his true feelings known. The two of them were great together. I also found it refreshing for a change that the man was saving himself for his true love...Killian was not whoring around while waiting for his chance with Axelle.
But Axelle really has bad luck....and everything turns to shit once again. And this time, Killian won't be able to magically make it all better.
I hated what happend, especially because they finally came together after 4 long years. I was pissed at Axelle...and after that I was pissed at Killian. I experienced a lot of emotions while reading this one.
Will true love be able to conquer all ??
4 stars from me...
(it wasn't pretty)
So ...like I said, this book is about Axelle and Killian, who we've come to know in Blake's book (2). I have loved those two kids ever since, so I was very curious to see what happens to them.
Four years have past since that fatefull valentines day. The day Killian was supposed to pick up Axelle for a date, but everything ended in a disaster....
For four years Killian has been head over heals in love with Axelle, being her rock, her support and her best friend. That's right....he got friendzoned. He has been by her side through everything, watching men treat her like crap..yet he's always there to pick up her broken pieces. After 4 years he's still trying to muster up the courage to tell her about his real feelings.
Axelle has been kinda lost ever since that horrible valentine's day 4 years ago. She has some major selfesteem problems and the fact that she's still in love with her best friend is not really helping her. Axelle doesn't see herself as worthy...especially for such an awesome man as Killian. He has been her one man support group for so long...always by her side whenever she needs him. If only he would feel the same way about her as she does about him...
I felt sad for the way Axelle was letting herself be treated...and especially for the fact that she didn't think she was worth more than that. So I was delighted when Killian finally made his true feelings known. The two of them were great together. I also found it refreshing for a change that the man was saving himself for his true love...Killian was not whoring around while waiting for his chance with Axelle.
But Axelle really has bad luck....and everything turns to shit once again. And this time, Killian won't be able to magically make it all better.
I hated what happend, especially because they finally came together after 4 long years. I was pissed at Axelle...and after that I was pissed at Killian. I experienced a lot of emotions while reading this one.
Will true love be able to conquer all ??
4 stars from me...
May 8, 2016
2 stars
This was a hard one for me. I usually love JB Salsbury books. She's a go to that I know might be angsty but will be worth it. However this was not the case with Fighting Fate.
Axelle and Killian should have been the best couple. I remember them from books before and just knew they were going to have an awesome book. But for the first half or so I was frustrated with Axelle because she made poor decisions. Killian was always there for her to the detriment of her and his own emotional well being. But when they finally got together I thought, okay this is going to be so epic!
But nope. That's not what happened. There's a break, a year long separation and waaaay too many obstacles in their way. If Axelle frustrated me for the first half, it was Killian I wanted to punch in the face for the second half. It's almost like he had a lobotomy. His personality was so different.
There is an HEA. They finally find their way back together and I do believe in them as a couple. BUT I just did not like the twists and turns it took to give them their happy ending.
I'd definitely recommend this to my friends. The writing is as amazing as all the other books in the series. But beware of the separation and the fact that this is not safe for my safety gang. There's no cheating, but there's a situation that I just never got over. JB Salsbury is still my girl, this just wasn't for me.
This was a hard one for me. I usually love JB Salsbury books. She's a go to that I know might be angsty but will be worth it. However this was not the case with Fighting Fate.
Axelle and Killian should have been the best couple. I remember them from books before and just knew they were going to have an awesome book. But for the first half or so I was frustrated with Axelle because she made poor decisions. Killian was always there for her to the detriment of her and his own emotional well being. But when they finally got together I thought, okay this is going to be so epic!
But nope. That's not what happened. There's a break, a year long separation and waaaay too many obstacles in their way. If Axelle frustrated me for the first half, it was Killian I wanted to punch in the face for the second half. It's almost like he had a lobotomy. His personality was so different.
There is an HEA. They finally find their way back together and I do believe in them as a couple. BUT I just did not like the twists and turns it took to give them their happy ending.
I'd definitely recommend this to my friends. The writing is as amazing as all the other books in the series. But beware of the separation and the fact that this is not safe for my safety gang. There's no cheating, but there's a situation that I just never got over. JB Salsbury is still my girl, this just wasn't for me.
May 20, 2016
Damn. Crap. Shit. This book tore me up. I fell in love with this series, been living it for the last two weeks. Honestly I'm struggling with how to write this review.
I was so excited for Killian & Axelles story, then came the reviews, I became nervous as hell to read this one. Scared it would ruin it, shatter my high of the UFL men..... It did but it didn't. Disappointed, yes. Disgusted, yes. Understandable, yeah I see why.
The love what Kill & Ax share, the love they created, the safety of their relationship literally blows up. I mean literally blows the frick up. Why? You ask why? Communication, stupidity, insecurity, fears, the fact that they both can't express their wants, their needs. It was so frustrating to read. And finally at the verge of losing each other, yet again, they wake up, or maybe grow up, and finally fall...... Beautifully fall. "I've jumped. I'm free falling Kill, and I'm so scared you're not going to be there to catch me."
I went in thinking the worst, I'm not gonna lie, when it came to the worst, I seriously wanted to hide my eyes, this really couldn't be happening..... It did, BUT, it wasn't as bad as I feared. Yes it changed my view of Killian, but God do I still love him..... The writing in this book is simply amazing. This book took me high to low to high to low to high. And the high it left me on, yeah it was amazing. I'm still in love with the UFL men, even though I've booked punched a few of them....
I was so excited for Killian & Axelles story, then came the reviews, I became nervous as hell to read this one. Scared it would ruin it, shatter my high of the UFL men..... It did but it didn't. Disappointed, yes. Disgusted, yes. Understandable, yeah I see why.
The love what Kill & Ax share, the love they created, the safety of their relationship literally blows up. I mean literally blows the frick up. Why? You ask why? Communication, stupidity, insecurity, fears, the fact that they both can't express their wants, their needs. It was so frustrating to read. And finally at the verge of losing each other, yet again, they wake up, or maybe grow up, and finally fall...... Beautifully fall. "I've jumped. I'm free falling Kill, and I'm so scared you're not going to be there to catch me."
I went in thinking the worst, I'm not gonna lie, when it came to the worst, I seriously wanted to hide my eyes, this really couldn't be happening..... It did, BUT, it wasn't as bad as I feared. Yes it changed my view of Killian, but God do I still love him..... The writing in this book is simply amazing. This book took me high to low to high to low to high. And the high it left me on, yeah it was amazing. I'm still in love with the UFL men, even though I've booked punched a few of them....
May 4, 2016
I can't believe I am rating a JBS book so low but Fighting Fate just pissed me off. I was so excited to start it because we have been waiting a loooong time for Axelle and Killian to get their story. For me Fighting Fate also epitomised what I dislike about the New Adult genre.
The first 30% is completely boring where nothing happens other than Killian pining for Axelle who has dated lots of guys all the while pining for Killian. It was a snore fest that could have been resolved at any stage by a conversation. It was a close DNF for me at this stage but I persevered because I desperately wanted to see them together. Meanwhile Axelle just seemed like any other stupid as shit college nitwit who makes poor choices for herself - it was beyond frustrating.
I loved the few pages that had them together but then came the big separation and that spanned most of the book. Plus I fucking hated that Kill . I get Axelle and Killian were better off for the time apart but I didn't like that most of the book was filled with pages of them apart rather than together.
I see others really liked the book so maybe it was just me, but Fighting Fate was a huge disappointment.
The first 30% is completely boring where nothing happens other than Killian pining for Axelle who has dated lots of guys all the while pining for Killian. It was a snore fest that could have been resolved at any stage by a conversation. It was a close DNF for me at this stage but I persevered because I desperately wanted to see them together. Meanwhile Axelle just seemed like any other stupid as shit college nitwit who makes poor choices for herself - it was beyond frustrating.
I loved the few pages that had them together but then came the big separation and that spanned most of the book. Plus I fucking hated that Kill . I get Axelle and Killian were better off for the time apart but I didn't like that most of the book was filled with pages of them apart rather than together.
I see others really liked the book so maybe it was just me, but Fighting Fate was a huge disappointment.
May 9, 2016
Loved it!
Review to come...
Review to come...
May 3, 2016
Paige's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
This isn't the hearts and flowers romance that I wanted for this couple but it's their story which fit them. Killian and Elle took the long hard road to find their happily ever after.
Killian was a real sweetie but I felt that Elle toyed with his emotions and feelings. I also thought he was a bit of a doormat and lacked the Alpha tendencies of his predecessors that this series is known for.
Axelle was still struggling with her mother's rape and the lack of a strong male role model in her life prior to Blake stepping in and filling this role. She had a poor self esteem and always seemed lacking despite the love and support from her mom, Killian and the crew. Her destructive ways were playing havoc with my emotions. I would have thought her mother and Blake would have stepped in sooner.
The pair struggle but finally grows into their own. They both mature and find their self worth. I would have loved to see them more time devoted to them as a strong, healthy living couple.
Rating the book was a challenge for me as I had a hard time with parts of the storyline and the main characters. I wasn't a fan of all the drama and angst in the book but the author kept me on the edge of my seat and I found this book hard to put down.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
This isn't the hearts and flowers romance that I wanted for this couple but it's their story which fit them. Killian and Elle took the long hard road to find their happily ever after.
Killian was a real sweetie but I felt that Elle toyed with his emotions and feelings. I also thought he was a bit of a doormat and lacked the Alpha tendencies of his predecessors that this series is known for.
Axelle was still struggling with her mother's rape and the lack of a strong male role model in her life prior to Blake stepping in and filling this role. She had a poor self esteem and always seemed lacking despite the love and support from her mom, Killian and the crew. Her destructive ways were playing havoc with my emotions. I would have thought her mother and Blake would have stepped in sooner.
The pair struggle but finally grows into their own. They both mature and find their self worth. I would have loved to see them more time devoted to them as a strong, healthy living couple.
Rating the book was a challenge for me as I had a hard time with parts of the storyline and the main characters. I wasn't a fan of all the drama and angst in the book but the author kept me on the edge of my seat and I found this book hard to put down.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
May 5, 2016
Honestly? I'll have to review this after I've had some time to digest. I've been mad, disgusted, confused and just downright unhappy with most of this. I hated the heroine for half the book while loving the hero, then flipped and despised him and tolerated her. There was a brief moment in the middle where I was okay with them both but don't worry, that quickly went to hell.
I need some time to gather my thoughts or else this will turn into a three day rant. I had such high hopes for this book. Oh and by the way, even when people tell you it can be read as a standalone - don't.
And I'm trying really hard not to be swayed by the author's playlist. I see you used my favourite band *twitchy eye*. Five times *twitchy eye*. And some of my other loves from high school *more twitches*. I will not be persuaded by the excellent musical selections!
I need some time to gather my thoughts or else this will turn into a three day rant. I had such high hopes for this book. Oh and by the way, even when people tell you it can be read as a standalone - don't.
And I'm trying really hard not to be swayed by the author's playlist. I see you used my favourite band *twitchy eye*. Five times *twitchy eye*. And some of my other loves from high school *more twitches*. I will not be persuaded by the excellent musical selections!
May 8, 2016
Somehow I just couldn't connect with Axelle. Which is sad really, because I've been waiting for their epic love story since Blake's book...
Axelle was too much of a victim and SERIOUSLY needed time alone with herself. Sadly, she hurt my lovey dovey Killian... who was such a hot nerd guy who suffered a lot.
And to tell you the truth... I hated how loose she was. DON'T get me wrong, I love heroines who are dynamic enough to get their men. And I really have connected with broken heroines who use sex as a coping mechanism... but somehow, the way the author wrote the scenes just made me cringe a little.
ALSO, HUGE WARNING for my GR friends: NOT A SAFE BOOK.
Axelle was too much of a victim and SERIOUSLY needed time alone with herself. Sadly, she hurt my lovey dovey Killian... who was such a hot nerd guy who suffered a lot.
And to tell you the truth... I hated how loose she was. DON'T get me wrong, I love heroines who are dynamic enough to get their men. And I really have connected with broken heroines who use sex as a coping mechanism... but somehow, the way the author wrote the scenes just made me cringe a little.
ALSO, HUGE WARNING for my GR friends: NOT A SAFE BOOK.
May 8, 2016
Review to come...
May 4, 2016
Okay. Wow. First let me say that I was in love with this series until book #5. I have justified reasons why I do not like these last two books, this one more so than the other. Now this is not to say that if you love this book and disagree with me that I think your wrong. You can absolutely love this book and I will not judge one bit. these are personal reasons for not enjoying the book. Also this review may contain spoilers.
This book started with a prologue that takes us to the past back on that fateful valentines day four years ago. here we have Killian and Axelle still in high school and if you've read the previous book you know what happened. It was a nice refresher since I haven't reread that book in awhile. Fast forward to current times and you have Kill who completely loves Axelle but feels hes nothing but friend zoned so he's there for her in anyway that he can be.
Now I loved Kill. I thought he was level headed he had a plan that he wanted to follow. finish school, become a UFL fighter, be the best person that he could be so that he felt he was worthy of Axelle's love.
Then you've got Axelle. Shes struggling within herself to overcome all the stuff that happened with her step father and in turn her fathers place in her life. Now there's only one way to label Axelle. TSTL. She made every possible wrong choice imaginable. And then when she attempts to make the "right" choice and finally start to take care of things herself, it's one of the worst choices she could make! I mean I wanted to feel for this girl but I could not muster up sympathy when I see her having so many tools, and friends at her disposal and to watch her just mess it up over and over again. It just got to the point where i was annoyed with her and I was willing to just let her wallow in her own misery.
The worst though was how she loved Kill since they met and she literally slept with the worse guys imaginable. She talks about how she dropped big hints and he only saw her as a friend, then a few chapters later she's talking about how she was never good enough for him so she never showed how she felt. Well which one is it?! This was probably one of my most despised female leads ever. She jumped to conclusions constantly,never wanted to talk things out to even remotely get to the bottom of the situation and she was continually pushing away the man that loved her down to his core.
I mean at the end of the day I guess I'm happy that Kill is happy, because that guy I totally love. What this book boiled down to for me was nothing but a big book of teen angst and drama. At about 30% I thought we were turning a corner but I only had to wait another 7% before I realized I spoke to soon.
It also bothered me that I felt like there were loose ends or things that were mentioned that kind of felt like a big deal but were never explored further such as Kill's mother and Axelle's biological father. I struggled so hard not to DNF this book. I love JB salsbury though so I pressed on.
I will definitely be reading the synopsis for the next book more closely and wait for more reviews before I even consider reading the next book. And I think that's a shame because Fighting for Flight was one of my top picks of 2013
This book started with a prologue that takes us to the past back on that fateful valentines day four years ago. here we have Killian and Axelle still in high school and if you've read the previous book you know what happened. It was a nice refresher since I haven't reread that book in awhile. Fast forward to current times and you have Kill who completely loves Axelle but feels hes nothing but friend zoned so he's there for her in anyway that he can be.
Now I loved Kill. I thought he was level headed he had a plan that he wanted to follow. finish school, become a UFL fighter, be the best person that he could be so that he felt he was worthy of Axelle's love.
Then you've got Axelle. Shes struggling within herself to overcome all the stuff that happened with her step father and in turn her fathers place in her life. Now there's only one way to label Axelle. TSTL. She made every possible wrong choice imaginable. And then when she attempts to make the "right" choice and finally start to take care of things herself, it's one of the worst choices she could make! I mean I wanted to feel for this girl but I could not muster up sympathy when I see her having so many tools, and friends at her disposal and to watch her just mess it up over and over again. It just got to the point where i was annoyed with her and I was willing to just let her wallow in her own misery.
The worst though was how she loved Kill since they met and she literally slept with the worse guys imaginable. She talks about how she dropped big hints and he only saw her as a friend, then a few chapters later she's talking about how she was never good enough for him so she never showed how she felt. Well which one is it?! This was probably one of my most despised female leads ever. She jumped to conclusions constantly,never wanted to talk things out to even remotely get to the bottom of the situation and she was continually pushing away the man that loved her down to his core.
I mean at the end of the day I guess I'm happy that Kill is happy, because that guy I totally love. What this book boiled down to for me was nothing but a big book of teen angst and drama. At about 30% I thought we were turning a corner but I only had to wait another 7% before I realized I spoke to soon.
It also bothered me that I felt like there were loose ends or things that were mentioned that kind of felt like a big deal but were never explored further such as Kill's mother and Axelle's biological father. I struggled so hard not to DNF this book. I love JB salsbury though so I pressed on.
I will definitely be reading the synopsis for the next book more closely and wait for more reviews before I even consider reading the next book. And I think that's a shame because Fighting for Flight was one of my top picks of 2013
May 8, 2016
5 fighting stars!!
“I’ll fight for us, but I’ll need you to fight too.”
JB Salsbury has written a classic friends-to-lovers story, with two characters that I loved from her previous books. Killian and Axelle have been best friends since childhood, but Kill is not your typical bad-boy MMA fighter. He’s a nerd in high school, and worships Axelle from afar. He thinks she could never be interested in someone like him, a geek who wears glasses, quiet and nerdy. Axelle, who has bad terrible choices in men, secretly loves him, but she doesn’t feel worthy enough for the smart, driven Killian.
There is more emotion, sexual tension and heartbreak packed into this book then many books twice the size. I could not put this book down and this story touched me on so many levels that I am still thinking about it a week after finishing! I fell in love with Killian. He is now my favorite of all the Fighting boys. Sweet, sexy, protective, strong, gentle – he is the TOTAL package.
And Axelle is a fantastic heroine, she makes bad choices, is far from perfect but picks herself up and moves on and makes a better life for herself. She realizes early on that she can’t hold Killian back from a stellar fighting career and refuses to hold him back.
“I can’t lose him to someone else. But I can’t allow him to pass up on a chance at happiness with someone else either.”
Axelle and Killian's story is emotional, thrilling, sexy, filled with heartbreak, hope and promise.
This book was perfect in every way. The boy and girl secretly in love with each other, the years spent apart, the incredible sexual chemistry between the hero and heroine, and the beautiful and strong families who support them both unconditionally. I adored how the author allowed Axelle to overcome her insecurities and become her own woman. I love everything JB Salsbury writes but FIGHTING FATE is one of her very best books!I didn’t think it possible, but I have become an even bigger fan after reading FIGHTING FATE. The dual POV was perfection and I can’t wait for more books from Ms. Salsbury.
(ARC provided by the author in return for an honest review.)
“I’ll fight for us, but I’ll need you to fight too.”
JB Salsbury has written a classic friends-to-lovers story, with two characters that I loved from her previous books. Killian and Axelle have been best friends since childhood, but Kill is not your typical bad-boy MMA fighter. He’s a nerd in high school, and worships Axelle from afar. He thinks she could never be interested in someone like him, a geek who wears glasses, quiet and nerdy. Axelle, who has bad terrible choices in men, secretly loves him, but she doesn’t feel worthy enough for the smart, driven Killian.
There is more emotion, sexual tension and heartbreak packed into this book then many books twice the size. I could not put this book down and this story touched me on so many levels that I am still thinking about it a week after finishing! I fell in love with Killian. He is now my favorite of all the Fighting boys. Sweet, sexy, protective, strong, gentle – he is the TOTAL package.
And Axelle is a fantastic heroine, she makes bad choices, is far from perfect but picks herself up and moves on and makes a better life for herself. She realizes early on that she can’t hold Killian back from a stellar fighting career and refuses to hold him back.
“I can’t lose him to someone else. But I can’t allow him to pass up on a chance at happiness with someone else either.”
Axelle and Killian's story is emotional, thrilling, sexy, filled with heartbreak, hope and promise.
This book was perfect in every way. The boy and girl secretly in love with each other, the years spent apart, the incredible sexual chemistry between the hero and heroine, and the beautiful and strong families who support them both unconditionally. I adored how the author allowed Axelle to overcome her insecurities and become her own woman. I love everything JB Salsbury writes but FIGHTING FATE is one of her very best books!I didn’t think it possible, but I have become an even bigger fan after reading FIGHTING FATE. The dual POV was perfection and I can’t wait for more books from Ms. Salsbury.
(ARC provided by the author in return for an honest review.)
May 4, 2016
This was a great read!
There was a certain point where I was trudging along, enjoying the story but about to update my status and call it a night.
I happened to see a couple of reviews that said they cried like crazy!
I thought... WTF?
Why am I not feeling it like them?
Why am I not crying??
I don't get it.
Well, Judy...
because you hadn't turned the page yet!
OMG, did I cry!
I may have cried the last half of the book!
Killian and Axelle!
I've been waiting for their story and I was so not disappointed.
Axelle, we all know her story. She's had it rough in the trust and abandonment department. Her insecurities are endless. Is she worthy enough? Will this one stick around? Will he love her?
Killian is amazing. He's everything you want in a friend and lover. He's kind, considerate and thoughtful. He's gorgeous and talented, but not boastful. He's protective and he'll do absolutely everything he has to for those he loves.
He's the ultimate book boyfriend.
JB knows how to write big, tough men with a heart of gold, and that is exactly what Killian is!
This story was sweet, tender, and loving. It was funny and sexy! At the same time it kept me on my toes. There was angst, drama and the unknown.
Will he? Won't he?
As with all the books in the Fighting Series these characters are a family.
All for one and one for all!
I know, wrong tag line, but still, I love the camaraderie and friendship that is ever present.
KO for sure!!
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review
There was a certain point where I was trudging along, enjoying the story but about to update my status and call it a night.
I happened to see a couple of reviews that said they cried like crazy!
I thought... WTF?
Why am I not feeling it like them?
Why am I not crying??
I don't get it.
Well, Judy...
because you hadn't turned the page yet!
OMG, did I cry!
I may have cried the last half of the book!
Killian and Axelle!
I've been waiting for their story and I was so not disappointed.
Axelle, we all know her story. She's had it rough in the trust and abandonment department. Her insecurities are endless. Is she worthy enough? Will this one stick around? Will he love her?
"Some of our biggest mistakes end up being our greatest blessings."
Killian is amazing. He's everything you want in a friend and lover. He's kind, considerate and thoughtful. He's gorgeous and talented, but not boastful. He's protective and he'll do absolutely everything he has to for those he loves.
He's the ultimate book boyfriend.
JB knows how to write big, tough men with a heart of gold, and that is exactly what Killian is!
This story was sweet, tender, and loving. It was funny and sexy! At the same time it kept me on my toes. There was angst, drama and the unknown.
Will he? Won't he?
As with all the books in the Fighting Series these characters are a family.
All for one and one for all!
I know, wrong tag line, but still, I love the camaraderie and friendship that is ever present.
KO for sure!!
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review
May 22, 2016
Post- Release Review
2 DISAPPOINTING STARS
*SPOILERS. READ AT YOUR OWN RISK*
Well.. so much for wishful thinking, in my pre-release review (at the bottom) as you can see I was ecstatic and so happy for the fifth book to the 'Fighting' series but unfortunately the book had an abundance of what I asked and prayed for to not be there, the dreadful- 'other w/m drama'. I thought J.B. Salsbury was a safe author after 5 almost safe books (almost bc the small other-w drama in book-3 which I forgave bc the rest of the book was fantastic) well, I was wrong. It wasn't that there was so much of it, no, not really. I think what went wrong for me was that there was TWICE of that and I couldn't get over it the second time.
I tried to love the book but the characters and their decisions made it very hard for me to. Although, I do agree that Axelle needed to get her shit right and do things on her own, I was already disappointed with the story by that time and as things progressed further I just didn't appreciate the story anymore.
The characters spoke alot about "how much they love each other", but, in my opinion, it felt like it was just verbal, I didn't feel it in their actions nor in their decisions.
I wouldn't rule it out for you guys to not read the book, I'm sure alot of you guys will love it and will probably tell me "bish what were you talking about?" but the small things bothered me alot and well..that's just how things are.
2016 has been a bad reading year for me and I guess it has no mind of changing any time soon. Well.. I tried I guess.
Pre- release review : May 13,2016
okay *breathes*
.
..
...
OH MY GOD! YESSSSS!! I CANNOT WAIT FOR THIS BOOK !!! PLEASE NO OTHER WOMEN/MEN DRAMA! PLEASE..
MAY NEEDS TO HURRY THE F UP!
2 DISAPPOINTING STARS
*SPOILERS. READ AT YOUR OWN RISK*
Well.. so much for wishful thinking, in my pre-release review (at the bottom) as you can see I was ecstatic and so happy for the fifth book to the 'Fighting' series but unfortunately the book had an abundance of what I asked and prayed for to not be there, the dreadful- 'other w/m drama'. I thought J.B. Salsbury was a safe author after 5 almost safe books (almost bc the small other-w drama in book-3 which I forgave bc the rest of the book was fantastic) well, I was wrong. It wasn't that there was so much of it, no, not really. I think what went wrong for me was that there was TWICE of that and I couldn't get over it the second time.
I tried to love the book but the characters and their decisions made it very hard for me to. Although, I do agree that Axelle needed to get her shit right and do things on her own, I was already disappointed with the story by that time and as things progressed further I just didn't appreciate the story anymore.
The characters spoke alot about "how much they love each other", but, in my opinion, it felt like it was just verbal, I didn't feel it in their actions nor in their decisions.
I wouldn't rule it out for you guys to not read the book, I'm sure alot of you guys will love it and will probably tell me "bish what were you talking about?" but the small things bothered me alot and well..that's just how things are.
2016 has been a bad reading year for me and I guess it has no mind of changing any time soon. Well.. I tried I guess.
Pre- release review : May 13,2016
okay *breathes*
.
..
...
OH MY GOD! YESSSSS!! I CANNOT WAIT FOR THIS BOOK !!! PLEASE NO OTHER WOMEN/MEN DRAMA! PLEASE..
MAY NEEDS TO HURRY THE F UP!
September 6, 2017
4 angsty, emotional stars
The long-anticipated book for Killian and Axelle! We knew it was coming, the anticipation has been building, and the scene has been set for an epic friends-to-lovers story, and whoa, this one was a rollercoaster! A messy, angsty and dramatic NA romance with more than one surprise, this one was actually hard to read at some points, but I couldn’t help but love the intensity of the love story and the long-awaited and much-deserved HEA for these two characters.
Introduced as teenagers in book #2 of the series (Fighting to Forgive), Killian and Axelle have been best friends from the moment they met - Killian, the sweet, shy, nerdy boy with dreams of a career in the UFC, and Axelle, the damaged yet feisty daughter of Layla. Now it’s four years later and Killian and Axelle are still best friends. Killian is still the sweet, nerdy boy however he is on the verge of achieving the success in the UFC he has only dreamed about, and Axelle is troubled and emotionally vulnerable and makes up for it by partying, hanging with the bad boys and searching for something to help heal her damaged heart.
For four years they have been glued to each other’s sides. They have been there for each other through good times and bad, they laugh, play and hang out, and more than that, Killian has been Axelle’s protector, defender and rock. And behind all of that, they are desperately and completely in love with each other, but neither of them have acted on it.
In dual POV we get an up-close-and-personal look at the depth of feeling between these two, and wow, it’s intense. Killian’s complete and utter devotion to his best friend is heartachingly beautiful but he doesn’t feel like he is enough for Axelle, and is working on making himself worthy of her so that he can give her the life that he feels she deserves. He has waited for her, ignoring all other women and instead has stood by her while she dates boys who are all wrong for her and treat her badly. Ironically, Axelle also feel like she’s good enough for Killian. She’s been hurt and rejected by the most important men in her life and it has damaged her. She tried to make her feelings known to Kill when they were teenagers, but things didn’t work out and she believes he’s not interested so she continues he fruitless search for love with all the wrong guys
It’s angsty and a messed up situation, but it shows Killian’s sweetness, loyalty and devotion to the girl he loves - though I kinda wish he had stepped in and put a stop to her self-destructive behaviour. I get that he wanted to wait for the right time, knowing that he would have one chance and not wanting to blow it. But still… a little bit more alpha would have been welcome. And I can’t believe how clueless Axelle was! She and Killian are constantly together, seeing the depth of his love for her through his thoughts, I can’t help but imagine his feelings would be written all over his face. But given her low self esteem and personal issues, I sort of got it. And it just makes their coming together all the more epic when they finally open up and lay it all out.
And OMG, the feels! I was bouncing up and down as it all unfolded. Beautifully romantic, heartfelt and swoony, I felt it all and the sweetness, honesty and passion between them was just gorgeous!
But then… it all goes to hell. In a surprising twist, it’s all over before it even started and my heart broke as these two who are so destined to be together, fall apart.
Oh, it hurt! But again, it sets the scene for Killian and Axelle to both have some much-needed time to figure themselves out. To sort themselves out, find the strength to move forward with their lives without having each other there, and figure out what it is they truly want. And only time will tell if their love for each other is strong enough to survive.
I’m conflicted in my thoughts on this book. As always, JB Salsbury’s writing is top-notch. The romance, drama and emotion just drips off the page, and the angst builds a wonderful sense of anticipation as we watch Killian and Axelle’s story play out. But having said that, I had some issues with some of the things that went down in this story… I can appreciate that they both needed time apart to stand on their own for a while, and I actually think it was a really great twist in their story, I just wasn’t a fan of the way it happened.
But despite all that, I still loved the story. I’m a sucker for a friends-to-lovers romance, and though it wasn’t easy and it wasn’t the story I wanted for them, it was still a gorgeous romance and I loved seeing Killian and Axelle finally get their HEA.
4 stars.
The long-anticipated book for Killian and Axelle! We knew it was coming, the anticipation has been building, and the scene has been set for an epic friends-to-lovers story, and whoa, this one was a rollercoaster! A messy, angsty and dramatic NA romance with more than one surprise, this one was actually hard to read at some points, but I couldn’t help but love the intensity of the love story and the long-awaited and much-deserved HEA for these two characters.
Introduced as teenagers in book #2 of the series (Fighting to Forgive), Killian and Axelle have been best friends from the moment they met - Killian, the sweet, shy, nerdy boy with dreams of a career in the UFC, and Axelle, the damaged yet feisty daughter of Layla. Now it’s four years later and Killian and Axelle are still best friends. Killian is still the sweet, nerdy boy however he is on the verge of achieving the success in the UFC he has only dreamed about, and Axelle is troubled and emotionally vulnerable and makes up for it by partying, hanging with the bad boys and searching for something to help heal her damaged heart.
For four years they have been glued to each other’s sides. They have been there for each other through good times and bad, they laugh, play and hang out, and more than that, Killian has been Axelle’s protector, defender and rock. And behind all of that, they are desperately and completely in love with each other, but neither of them have acted on it.
In dual POV we get an up-close-and-personal look at the depth of feeling between these two, and wow, it’s intense. Killian’s complete and utter devotion to his best friend is heartachingly beautiful but he doesn’t feel like he is enough for Axelle, and is working on making himself worthy of her so that he can give her the life that he feels she deserves. He has waited for her, ignoring all other women and instead has stood by her while she dates boys who are all wrong for her and treat her badly. Ironically, Axelle also feel like she’s good enough for Killian. She’s been hurt and rejected by the most important men in her life and it has damaged her. She tried to make her feelings known to Kill when they were teenagers, but things didn’t work out and she believes he’s not interested so she continues he fruitless search for love with all the wrong guys
It’s angsty and a messed up situation, but it shows Killian’s sweetness, loyalty and devotion to the girl he loves - though I kinda wish he had stepped in and put a stop to her self-destructive behaviour. I get that he wanted to wait for the right time, knowing that he would have one chance and not wanting to blow it. But still… a little bit more alpha would have been welcome. And I can’t believe how clueless Axelle was! She and Killian are constantly together, seeing the depth of his love for her through his thoughts, I can’t help but imagine his feelings would be written all over his face. But given her low self esteem and personal issues, I sort of got it. And it just makes their coming together all the more epic when they finally open up and lay it all out.
Axelle loves me.
The words strike my chest and knock the air from my lungs. I drop my forehead to her neck and she holds me to her, comforting me as if she’s aware of the power of her confession. I whisper words of gratitude against her skin, silent praises to God…
She loves me.
And OMG, the feels! I was bouncing up and down as it all unfolded. Beautifully romantic, heartfelt and swoony, I felt it all and the sweetness, honesty and passion between them was just gorgeous!
But then… it all goes to hell. In a surprising twist, it’s all over before it even started and my heart broke as these two who are so destined to be together, fall apart.
Oh, it hurt! But again, it sets the scene for Killian and Axelle to both have some much-needed time to figure themselves out. To sort themselves out, find the strength to move forward with their lives without having each other there, and figure out what it is they truly want. And only time will tell if their love for each other is strong enough to survive.
“I’ll fight for us, but I’ll need you to fight for us, too.”
I’m conflicted in my thoughts on this book. As always, JB Salsbury’s writing is top-notch. The romance, drama and emotion just drips off the page, and the angst builds a wonderful sense of anticipation as we watch Killian and Axelle’s story play out. But having said that, I had some issues with some of the things that went down in this story… I can appreciate that they both needed time apart to stand on their own for a while, and I actually think it was a really great twist in their story, I just wasn’t a fan of the way it happened.
But despite all that, I still loved the story. I’m a sucker for a friends-to-lovers romance, and though it wasn’t easy and it wasn’t the story I wanted for them, it was still a gorgeous romance and I loved seeing Killian and Axelle finally get their HEA.
4 stars.
May 7, 2016
I just can't.......Axelle is just..........OY........so disappointed.
August 11, 2017
**Received ARC in exchange for an honest review**
"I can't lose him to someone else. But I can't allow him to pass up on a chance at happiness with someone else either."
The Fighting series is one of my favorites. The author continues doing a great job with each book she releases. I don't even have to read the blurb to know I will love it. We already met both characters in the previous books. I was very excited when I when I found out that they would get their own book. I just love reading about friends turned to lovers.
"She lowers herself and blinks up at me with makeup free eyes, and suddenly she's sixteen again. That's the face I fell in love with, the face I'm still in love with."
This book is about Killian and Axelle who have been best friends since they met in highschool. Killian is not your usual bad boy, but he is a book nerd and very protective of his best friend. Who he secretly loves since the moment he met her. Axelle is very insecure because of her past and has abandonment issues. All she wants to do is please everyone and be accepted. She doesn't think she is good enough and that is why everyone leaves her. Killian has been friend-zones and he doesn't know how to get out of it.
Both characters were great, I loved seeing Killian so protective of her. He is the type of friend who will drop anything to be there for his best friend. He is shy and doesn't have many friends besides Ax and the guys he trains with. Killian may be shy and a bit of a book nerd but he is training to become the next MMA legend. I felt so bad for Killian for not being able to come out and tell Ax that he loves her. However I was glad that it didn't take too long before the cat was out of the bag.
"She no longer resembles the girl I fell in love with, the woman I've come to adore. Now she's jus a girl who broke my heart."
Then something happens that has an huge impact on both characters and Ax pushes Killian away. She doesn't want to depend on him for everything, she finally wants to stand on her own feet and breaks it off with Killian. It was so heartbreaking to read this part from Killian's POV, he just can't get a break. Do I agree with what she did? I don't know. It did allow them to both grow as individuals. But it could've been done in another way as well. This all sounds really mysterious, but I don't want to spoil it!
"I would've given anything for her to see herself through my eyes. If I had to gouge out my own and rip out my beating heart. I would've done it gladly if only to make her understand."
It was a great book and a great addition to the series. I loved seeing what all the other characters from previous books were up to. I really miss those guys! I hoping there will be more books in this series or maybe a spin-off. The writing was really good like always and I very much enjoyed the dual POV.
"I'll fight for us, but I'll need you to fight too."
"I can't lose him to someone else. But I can't allow him to pass up on a chance at happiness with someone else either."
The Fighting series is one of my favorites. The author continues doing a great job with each book she releases. I don't even have to read the blurb to know I will love it. We already met both characters in the previous books. I was very excited when I when I found out that they would get their own book. I just love reading about friends turned to lovers.
"She lowers herself and blinks up at me with makeup free eyes, and suddenly she's sixteen again. That's the face I fell in love with, the face I'm still in love with."
This book is about Killian and Axelle who have been best friends since they met in highschool. Killian is not your usual bad boy, but he is a book nerd and very protective of his best friend. Who he secretly loves since the moment he met her. Axelle is very insecure because of her past and has abandonment issues. All she wants to do is please everyone and be accepted. She doesn't think she is good enough and that is why everyone leaves her. Killian has been friend-zones and he doesn't know how to get out of it.
Both characters were great, I loved seeing Killian so protective of her. He is the type of friend who will drop anything to be there for his best friend. He is shy and doesn't have many friends besides Ax and the guys he trains with. Killian may be shy and a bit of a book nerd but he is training to become the next MMA legend. I felt so bad for Killian for not being able to come out and tell Ax that he loves her. However I was glad that it didn't take too long before the cat was out of the bag.
"She no longer resembles the girl I fell in love with, the woman I've come to adore. Now she's jus a girl who broke my heart."
Then something happens that has an huge impact on both characters and Ax pushes Killian away. She doesn't want to depend on him for everything, she finally wants to stand on her own feet and breaks it off with Killian. It was so heartbreaking to read this part from Killian's POV, he just can't get a break. Do I agree with what she did? I don't know. It did allow them to both grow as individuals. But it could've been done in another way as well. This all sounds really mysterious, but I don't want to spoil it!
"I would've given anything for her to see herself through my eyes. If I had to gouge out my own and rip out my beating heart. I would've done it gladly if only to make her understand."
It was a great book and a great addition to the series. I loved seeing what all the other characters from previous books were up to. I really miss those guys! I hoping there will be more books in this series or maybe a spin-off. The writing was really good like always and I very much enjoyed the dual POV.
"I'll fight for us, but I'll need you to fight too."
May 3, 2016
OK, JB Salsbury! I am calling you out! BIG TIME! You have been keeping a secret from all of us. And that secret is your ability to write the absolute heck out of some seriously angsty and sexy New Adult! This book is right up there with my favorites in this series and I absolutely loved it!
Oh, I know you guys have been waiting on Axelle and Killian's story. I mean we met them back in Blake's book in this series and we watched them grow and fell in love with them as kids. And now they are all grown up and man they got so much New Adult drama and I just ate it up. Ahh, so we start the book with these two in college and they are still the very best of friends so this is a true friends to lover's romance and I freaking love these types of stories. Ya know, ones where they are scared to ruin the friendship or they both don't realize the extent of one another feelings for each other. It really does make for the most delicious story. And I loved Axelle but let's be honest here, Killian was just too sweet and he completely stole the show this book. Le Sigh!
So Ms. Salsbury, this is definitely one of my very favorites in the series. It is just filled with so many amazing New Adult themes. So I plead with you, go forth, and write me all of the NA, right this minute. And if you haven't picked up this book, then do so right now. You will not regret it!
~Amie
Oh, I know you guys have been waiting on Axelle and Killian's story. I mean we met them back in Blake's book in this series and we watched them grow and fell in love with them as kids. And now they are all grown up and man they got so much New Adult drama and I just ate it up. Ahh, so we start the book with these two in college and they are still the very best of friends so this is a true friends to lover's romance and I freaking love these types of stories. Ya know, ones where they are scared to ruin the friendship or they both don't realize the extent of one another feelings for each other. It really does make for the most delicious story. And I loved Axelle but let's be honest here, Killian was just too sweet and he completely stole the show this book. Le Sigh!
So Ms. Salsbury, this is definitely one of my very favorites in the series. It is just filled with so many amazing New Adult themes. So I plead with you, go forth, and write me all of the NA, right this minute. And if you haven't picked up this book, then do so right now. You will not regret it!
~Amie
August 15, 2016
3.5 stars
I enjoyed this for the most part and I have wanted Killian and Axelle’s story since they met as teens. I struggled with Axelle. I understood her daddy issues but she was so self-destructive and she had such good people surrounding her that I wanted to strangle her. Killian was so wonderful. I loved that we got a male virgin and he saved himself for his true love. At time though I wasn’t sure she deserved him.
I didn’t like the time flow of this one. I hated that these two clearly were in love with each other but neither one of them could find the balls to tell the other. By the time they declare it you are so excited for them and boom…..Separation!! Ugghhh!! Now I do believe that they did need the time apart because Axelle needed to find herself and grow. I just didn’t care for the catalyst to this separation and that is happened so quickly after they declared their love.
I enjoyed this for the most part and I have wanted Killian and Axelle’s story since they met as teens. I struggled with Axelle. I understood her daddy issues but she was so self-destructive and she had such good people surrounding her that I wanted to strangle her. Killian was so wonderful. I loved that we got a male virgin and he saved himself for his true love. At time though I wasn’t sure she deserved him.
I didn’t like the time flow of this one. I hated that these two clearly were in love with each other but neither one of them could find the balls to tell the other. By the time they declare it you are so excited for them and boom…..Separation!! Ugghhh!! Now I do believe that they did need the time apart because Axelle needed to find herself and grow. I just didn’t care for the catalyst to this separation and that is happened so quickly after they declared their love.
May 4, 2016
Oh J.B. how I love thee! Killian and Axle's book was just lovely. All the love, angst, drama and incredible story expected from such a talented writer. In my humble opinion, nothing is over the top, no eyeball rolling necessary, just a wonderful story without the saccharine sweetness found in other books of this genre. I was sad to read that the next book will be the last in this series but I also love that she won't write this series into the ground.
If you appreciate MMA fighters who fight just as hard in the ring as they do out of it, read this book.
If you appreciate MMA fighters who fight just as hard in the ring as they do out of it, read this book.
May 3, 2016
LOVED IT!!!!!
EXCEPT for that *one thing* that Killian did.... *GRRRRR*
EXCEPT for that *one thing* that Killian did.... *GRRRRR*
December 26, 2017
love this series!
May 3, 2016
"No one dictates your future but you."
This statement is a great piece of advice for anyone who has struggled with a scarring past, but it's exactly those wounds that make it difficult to not feel the pain and grief that was caused by people who refused to step up for you and left you questioning everything about yourself, which is exactly what leads Axelle down a destructive path desperately needing to be loved and taken care of and choosing the wrong people and bad situations to accomplish her goal.
Killian “Kill” McCreery has stood by Axelle’s side as her best friend for more years than he would like to admit, watching her giving her body and sometimes her heart to guys who use her up and then walk away. Kill wants to be more than friends with Axelle, but unlike Clark Kent, he doesn’t have another persona to prove to her that he’s more than the quiet, nerdy guy who is all about responsibility. Killian has worked hard to build his body and his mind, going from a scrawny kids to a potential UFL superstar. But Killian is nothing without Axelle; he lives and breathes for her and he would give anything for her to be his and acknowledge that what they share is way more than friendship.
Broken.
Desperate to be loved.
Damsel in distress.
Insecure.
A burden.
Undeserving.
These are all ways that Axelle sees herself ever since her real father’s identity was revealed and her life imploded. She’s used to watching people walkaway from her and not having any say in their actions, so it makes sense that any guy giving her even the slightest bit of attention, even if it is purely physical, is enough for Axelle to hold on tight and become attached to guys who don’t deserve her.
Axelle and Killian nearly did my heart and my head in throughout Fighting Fate…I wanted to shake them both and force them to realize that their happiness has been standing in front of them all this time. I was yelling at them through my kindle, so aggravated with their inability to take a chance on their feelings for each other but also depressed that their struggles were going to ruin any chance they have at a real chance at a relationship.
At first, I wasn’t happy with JB Salsbury separating her hero and heroine for so long, but the more time they spent apart, the more they were able to find their own ways, as single entities, instead of the duo they’ve counted on for so long. The only way Axelle and Kill would ever have a chance at more was if they understood who they were without one another, and while that progress is painful, it’s absolutely necessary. Salisbury demonstrates Axelle and Killian’s personal growth so meticulously, which allows readers to see Axelle coming into her own and relying on herself instead of others to pull herself out of her own head, and Killian needed to do something for himself…make something of himself to know that he’s more than capable of being a successful man even if Axelle isn’t always standing by his side.
Fighting Fate is another fabulous edition to an amazing series full of heart, steam, and drama. Because Axelle is Blake’s step daughter, the whole crew plays a role in some of the dilemmas Axelle and Killian face, which is a perfect way to bring the old/new era of the Fighting series together.
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
4/4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
This statement is a great piece of advice for anyone who has struggled with a scarring past, but it's exactly those wounds that make it difficult to not feel the pain and grief that was caused by people who refused to step up for you and left you questioning everything about yourself, which is exactly what leads Axelle down a destructive path desperately needing to be loved and taken care of and choosing the wrong people and bad situations to accomplish her goal.
Killian “Kill” McCreery has stood by Axelle’s side as her best friend for more years than he would like to admit, watching her giving her body and sometimes her heart to guys who use her up and then walk away. Kill wants to be more than friends with Axelle, but unlike Clark Kent, he doesn’t have another persona to prove to her that he’s more than the quiet, nerdy guy who is all about responsibility. Killian has worked hard to build his body and his mind, going from a scrawny kids to a potential UFL superstar. But Killian is nothing without Axelle; he lives and breathes for her and he would give anything for her to be his and acknowledge that what they share is way more than friendship.
Broken.
Desperate to be loved.
Damsel in distress.
Insecure.
A burden.
Undeserving.
These are all ways that Axelle sees herself ever since her real father’s identity was revealed and her life imploded. She’s used to watching people walkaway from her and not having any say in their actions, so it makes sense that any guy giving her even the slightest bit of attention, even if it is purely physical, is enough for Axelle to hold on tight and become attached to guys who don’t deserve her.
Axelle and Killian nearly did my heart and my head in throughout Fighting Fate…I wanted to shake them both and force them to realize that their happiness has been standing in front of them all this time. I was yelling at them through my kindle, so aggravated with their inability to take a chance on their feelings for each other but also depressed that their struggles were going to ruin any chance they have at a real chance at a relationship.
At first, I wasn’t happy with JB Salsbury separating her hero and heroine for so long, but the more time they spent apart, the more they were able to find their own ways, as single entities, instead of the duo they’ve counted on for so long. The only way Axelle and Kill would ever have a chance at more was if they understood who they were without one another, and while that progress is painful, it’s absolutely necessary. Salisbury demonstrates Axelle and Killian’s personal growth so meticulously, which allows readers to see Axelle coming into her own and relying on herself instead of others to pull herself out of her own head, and Killian needed to do something for himself…make something of himself to know that he’s more than capable of being a successful man even if Axelle isn’t always standing by his side.
Fighting Fate is another fabulous edition to an amazing series full of heart, steam, and drama. Because Axelle is Blake’s step daughter, the whole crew plays a role in some of the dilemmas Axelle and Killian face, which is a perfect way to bring the old/new era of the Fighting series together.
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
4/4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
May 18, 2016
I usually love the books in this series, but this one, I really hated it. In the second book, when I first read about Axelle I didn't like her at first, then I kind of understood her and then, every time I read about her in the other books I thought that she was getting better and that she wasn't as bad, but in this, in her book, I really hated her.
Don't get me wrong, I understand that she had a tough life and everything, and that for some people is easier to focus on the bad things than the good things. She was so blinded by everything bad that had happened that she just couldn't see the good things. It sucks, but it's something that happens, but I hated how she treated Killian.
Don't get me wrong, I understand that she had a tough life and everything, and that for some people is easier to focus on the bad things than the good things. She was so blinded by everything bad that had happened that she just couldn't see the good things. It sucks, but it's something that happens, but I hated how she treated Killian.
May 3, 2016
'Ever Since Axelle came into my life back in high school, I knew she'd own me.'
Ya'll!!! This book. OMG really I mean OMG. I could not tear my eyes from the page. Fighting Fate has the action and utterly sexy alphaness you except with a fighting book but add to that the intense emotional angst that comes with a New Adult Book. This was a perfect book for me.
'If anyone on this earth deserves happiness, deserves to live a life of love and success, it's Killian McCreery.'
Axelle and Killian's story is beautiful and difficult. Best friends since school both are fighting their attraction to the other and living life determined not to ruin what they have. Killian is the epitome of devout. He trains, goes to school and spends time with Axelle (even watching her be wild and date others) Through it all he stayed on her sidelines . . . until one night when everything changes. But nothing can come easy for these two and in order to get the HEA they deserver they have to endure so much and both make so many mistakes in the process. But that is what being young and naïve to life will do. This is why I love NA. You get to watch them make mistakes and learn and grow.
'She no longer resembles the girl I fell in love with, the woman I've come to adore. Now she's just a girl who broke me heart. And fuck her for that.'
I am already a HUGE fan of this series but after seeing the utter amazingness that JB Salsbury delivered in this NEW ADULT fighting book I am just going to have to demand she start writing more and more NA, because as much as I have adored all the other books in the series this one was simply the best yet!
**reviewed for Red Cheeks Reads
Ya'll!!! This book. OMG really I mean OMG. I could not tear my eyes from the page. Fighting Fate has the action and utterly sexy alphaness you except with a fighting book but add to that the intense emotional angst that comes with a New Adult Book. This was a perfect book for me.
'If anyone on this earth deserves happiness, deserves to live a life of love and success, it's Killian McCreery.'
Axelle and Killian's story is beautiful and difficult. Best friends since school both are fighting their attraction to the other and living life determined not to ruin what they have. Killian is the epitome of devout. He trains, goes to school and spends time with Axelle (even watching her be wild and date others) Through it all he stayed on her sidelines . . . until one night when everything changes. But nothing can come easy for these two and in order to get the HEA they deserver they have to endure so much and both make so many mistakes in the process. But that is what being young and naïve to life will do. This is why I love NA. You get to watch them make mistakes and learn and grow.
'She no longer resembles the girl I fell in love with, the woman I've come to adore. Now she's just a girl who broke me heart. And fuck her for that.'
I am already a HUGE fan of this series but after seeing the utter amazingness that JB Salsbury delivered in this NEW ADULT fighting book I am just going to have to demand she start writing more and more NA, because as much as I have adored all the other books in the series this one was simply the best yet!
**reviewed for Red Cheeks Reads
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