Hot Fighters: Gegen alles, was uns trennt

Worth the Fight #1

by Sidney Halston

Er hat alles perfekt im Griff! Tagsüber bringt Jack Daniels Verbrecher hinter Gittern, nachts nimmt der Cop an Mixed-Martial-Arts-Kämpfen teil. Doch als er die sexy Ärztin Chrissy trifft, gerät alles aus den Fugen. Denn obwohl zwischen ihnen die Funken sprühen, kann sich Chrissy keine glückliche Zukunft an der Seite eines Kampfsportlers vorstellen. Mutig kämpft Jack um ihr Herz - und ahnt, dass dieser Fight der härteste seines Lebens wird …

"Eine heiße, freche Romance, von der die Leser nicht genug bekommen können. Sidney Halston ist eine Autorin, die man im Auge behalten sollte."

New York Times-Bestsellerautorin Cherry Adair

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Mixed Martial Arts, Fighters, Contemporary, Sports, Sports Romance

304 pages, Paperback

First published May 27, 2014

About the author

Jeanette Escudero worked as an attorney before picking up a pen at thirty years old to write something other than legal briefs. Being published fulfilled a dream and gave her an outlet for her imaginative, romantic side. Writing as Sidney Halston, she is the USA Today bestselling author of the Panic series, the Worth the Fight series, the Iron-Clad Security novels, and the Seeing Red duet. In addition to writing and reading, Jeanette has a passion for travel and adventure. She and her family have been to the Galapagos Islands and have hiked Yellowstone, the Shenandoah mountains, and the Great Smoky Mountains. Born in Miami, Florida, to Cuban parents, she currently lives in South Florida with her husband and her three children, in whom she’s instilled a love of nature and an appreciation for the planet. For more information visit www.sidneyhalston.com.

Reviews

[Duchess Nicole · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was okay. The initial setup sounded good but the cheese factor overshadowed the second half in a major way. I suppose I was expecting an edgier love story, what with two MMA fighters. Overall, it was a pretty tame story.

Chrissy is a doctor, so I'm assuming she's had a lot of schooling. But she has a major lack of common sense and often acted like the quintessential dumb blonde. She had quite a few TSTL moments, and she giggled all the time. Which Jack found endearing, but I hate giggling heroines. She takes it upon herself to follow her brother and Jack around to their fights, trying to actually jump into the cage while the fight is going on in order to patch up brother Slade. Utterly ridiculous.

Jack and Slade were decent characters, but there just wasn't anyone dynamic enough to stand out in this book. Except for Drogo, Jack's chihuahua. He was a great character. Chihuahuas are evil. Drogo was awesome, snapping and growling at everyone.

The whole book felt predictable and slow, the conflict between brother and sister kind of silly, in the way that Chrissy refused to see reason and basically ignored her brother for nearly a decade over a drunken misunderstanding. The romance was okay, the sex somewhat lackluster and very quick. Could have been hot but never quite reached that high. I felt like the writing just needs some polishing, and the book needs a heavy handed editor. For goodness sake, a "square cut diamond"? It's a princess cut diamond. And two carats on a cop's salary? Puhlease!!! Be somewhat realistic.

So yeah. It was okay.

Advance copy provided by the publisher for review

[Pam · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars

“Sleep baby. You’re not alone anymore.”

Prissy Chrissy finally made her way back home, after eleven years she returns to her small home town not out of pleasure but obligation. As soon as she hits the city limits she gets pulled over by the one and only Jack Daniels, her brothers best friend and the jerk who never let her have any fun keeping her “safe” and boring during her younger years. Jack remembers Chrissy, but the Chrissy standing in front of him is different than the geeky girl he knew; this feisty-hellcat is stubborn as they come and it takes all his patience to get through the nights and the days to come.

Chrissy is in town to bail her bother Slade out of jail, he is a professional fighter that got into some trouble that he can’t talk his way out of. Her past keeps her from doing anything her brother says, out of guilt and shame; he uses it to get what he wants without so much thinking of the consequences. Chrissy is livid with her brother’s choice and makes it known from the moment he is out on bail. As a Doctor and a humanitarian, she has spent most of her life traveling all around the world helping others and she is having a hard time wrapping her head around wanting to hit and be hit. While her brother does it for a living, Jack seems to do it for fun; who in their right mind finds beating another person fun? Her past haunts her, her memories forever changed her keeping her from getting to close to jack no matter how much her body fights her.

Against the Cage was just an okay read for me; I had issues with the story line and how it all came about, eleven years is a long time to hold a grudge, and for Chrissy there was a part of me that felt for what she went through BUT at the same time I found her annoying. How she dealt with her life during those eleven years was admirable and cowardly as well. It was like two different characters, she would be a total pushover one second and then a feisty-stubborn-hellcat the next. I didn’t blame Jack for not knowing what to do with her, because she was all over the damn place. There were so many unresolved issues that should have been hashed out sooner than it did and it made it harder for me to believe in it all. The fights were delicious, but with Chrissy’s reaction to it, I couldn’t enjoy it as much. The story dealt with some serious issues but I think the message got lost along the way in the delivery. The book had its moments though, his dog was hilarious and I did enjoy the one liners and the playful banter between the Jack and Chrissy but it wasn’t enough to make me love it.

ARC kindly provided by Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept, in exchange for an honest review.

***Quotes above are taken from the ARC version of the book and may differ upon publication.

[Claire · Rating 1 out of 5]

1 - I tried, but gave up @ 40% Star.

Against The Cage started out as a really promising read. I mean anyone would think they were onto a winner, when in the first few pages, our heroine gets pulled over and promptly punches the officer in the nuts by accident!



“Please tell me I didn’t just hit you in the…”
“In the balls? Yes, lady, you punched me right in the balls.”

Sadly, the story got a little overwhelmed as it progressed, with so many random things added into it I got confused at points as to what was actually going on and who was speaking... I decided to 'Time Out' when I was shouting as loudly as Jack "Who is Veronica" ...

It also became harder as the book moved on, to believe that I was reading about adults and not teenagers. Chrissy, who is apparently a Doctor acts like a teenage girl with an over-abundance of hormones and opinions, and I really struggled to believe that anyone (well an adult anyway) would hold a grudge for 10+ years, or judge someone so harshly after approximately 24 hours in their company, after that length of time away from them...

You're a violent cage fighter who sleeps with women and never calls them again. I can't get involved with you and I'm certainly not sleeping with you."

This author has potential, the story had potential, and if all the excess baggage was removed or even added into the mix in a less befuddled way it would probably be something I would happily try reading again. But when the Pet Chihuahua is your favourite character you know it's just not working for you.



ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for the above honest review.

[Christie«SHBBblogger» · Rating 3 out of 5]

***ARC provided by Netgalley for an honest review***

3.5 stars



Title: Against the Cage
Series: Worth the Fight #1
Author:Sidney Halston
Release Date: May 27, 2014
Rating:3.5 stars
Cliffhanger:No
HEA: Yes





Chrissy is on her way home to Tarpon Springs, Florida after her brother calls her from jail asking her to come bail him out. They're not really on speaking terms, but he's the only family she has left after their father passed away and she's not the kind of person who forgets about family.

On her way there she has a day from hell. She broke a heel off one of her favorite pair of shoes, got a flat tire, and now is getting pulled over by the police. What else could go wrong? This was one of my favorite parts of the book. Because yes, something else could go wrong-and his name is Jack Daniels (the cop who pulled her over). Yes, his name is really Jack Daniels. Who is Jack? Her brother's best friend all through childhood and as adults and one half of the duo that annoyed the hell out of her until she moved away. Not only did she have a crush on him that was unrequited, but he and her brother were always treating her like an annoying pest and preventing her from having any fun. Now here he is about to give her a ticket. Unfortunately, a small mishap happens with her hand and his crotch and he's on the ground. I cracked up at this tough guy cop brought down by little old Chrissy and once she realizes who he is, she loses her regret and apologetic attitude. He's not exactly her favorite person.

Jack squinted. "Chris?"
"Hi, Jack."
"Now, it all makes sense. You punched me in the balls on purpose!"
"No way! That was completely by accident. But, had I known it was you, the results would have probably been the same."

Chrissy is there to get her brother out of trouble and then she wants to head out of town as quickly as possible. Ever since her brother blamed her for their father’s death at his funeral, she hasn’t wanted to contact him and avoids their hometown as much as possible. She’s no longer a gawky kid trailing behind her brother and his friend trying to make them happy. She’s an independent woman, a doctor, and now has more self-confidence and knows how to stick up for herself. Jack isn’t the same as he was all those years ago either. From the minute she steps out of the car and he sees her fully for the first time, he definitely isn't picturing her like a little sister anymore. Now he’s developing a strong attraction and a serious obsession with her amazing pair of legs. But she can’t stand him….right?

She’s always had a crush on him and that seems to still be there-though she would never admit it. He’s not about to let her pretend for a second though. He’s not a shy or uncertain guy. He wants her and she’s about to find that out.



Chrissy was not one of my favorite heroines. I thought I would like her based on her character traits, but her personality seemed to prissy and judgmental. She spent a lot of time in the book lecturing her brother and Jack, following Slade around making sure he wasn't getting into trouble. He's a grown man! It got annoying to me. She wasn't TSTL, but she wasn't what I was expecting either. Jack I thought was great. He had a very bossy, controlling, yet protective personality. I liked how take charge he was and man did that guy have a dirty mouth! Holy Hell he could dirty talk.

Their personalities caused them to clash a lot. There was a lot of bickering. She didn't like to be bossed around, and he didn't like her never taking his advice or doing what he wanted. She hated the fact that he's an MMA fighter-she can't stand the violence and his enjoyment of that worries her. She had a horrible experience with an ex-boyfriend that ended badly and she doesn't want history to repeat itself.

One minute you're this sweet protective cop that has me so completely smitten that I forget all logic and reason, and the next you're violent and savage and happy about it. Guess who that reminds me of?"

There were misunderstandings from their past that had to be cleared up, and her relationship with her brother needed some work as well. But his insistence on cage fighting in dangerous fights weren't helping. He was trying to earn some quick money in order to start up his own gym and as his sister and a doctor, she was fighting him every step of the way. And poor Jack was stuck in the middle.

I gave this 3.5 because Jack was quite yummy, the sex was definitely hot, but it really wasn't what I was expecting. There was too much focus on her brother and his fighting. There was only one fight scene with Jack and I was expecting him to be more involved with the sport, but it was more of a hobby for him. The heroine was getting irritating to me by the end, and some scenes came off as silly rather than funny. This is good for a quick read with some steam to it but I didn’t totally fall for the story.



FOLLOW SMOKIN HOT BOOK BLOG ON:

[Syndi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first time I read a book by this author. The blurp is promising to be fun and light reading.

Chrissy comes home to her hometown. She had a very bad day and out of luck. On the top of that, she accidently hits police officer's balls. The it turns out this police officer is her old crush. To be honest, if I am Chrissy, I just want to die on the spot.

After I finish listening to the audio book, I found several flaws in the book. The wording can be edited better. Can be choose better and funnier words. More steamier words. Despite of that flaw, I still enjoy very much the banter between Chrissy and Jack. I do feel Jack dialog is very stiff and lack of depth.

Again, I do enjoy the banter.

4 stars

[Tpagirl Loves Romance · Rating 3 out of 5]

Against the Cage was the first book in the Worth the Fight series by Sidney Halston. It was my first book by the author.

Chrissy Martin was a doctor who primarily traveled around foreign countries doing volunteer work but was called home to Tarpon Springs, FL to help her brother Slade.

Jack Daniels was Chrissy’s brother’s best friend since childhood. He was now a police officer but also did some MMA fighting on the side. He was also the object of Chrissy’s childhood crush.

This was an interesting review to write for me. I didn’t particularly care for the first half but the second half picked up and kept my attention. And for some reason, and I’m still not sure why, I didn’t connect well with the characters. They didn’t seem to gel well and communication was an issue, even with secondary characters. By the end, I was coming around and liked how it came together.

Otherwise, it was a fairly quick read and Halston set the stage for the rest of the series well. Next up is Slade in Full Contact.

[Fiza · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Arc received from Netgalley*

Chrissy is just back in town and things turned crappy already. The icing on the cake is being pulled over by a cop….one whom she accidentally punches in the groin (ouch but oh so funny). The cop in question is Jack Daniels, her brother’s best friend.

Jack here decides to abuse his position a bit and ruffle Chrissy's feathers. But that thought flows out the window when Chrissy steps out of her car and he sees how much she has changed, he's struck dumb. Too bad that when he finds his voice again he acts like the jerk Chrissy thinks him to be.



Unfortunately for Chrissy she still needs him, he has the key to her place. When they arrive at her place it doesn't take long for them to talk it out and play tonsil hockey while hands explore each others body. Their play is cut short when Chrissy happens on a wound that needs to be patched up. Jack has some explaining to do.



Chrissy doesn't stay mad long but this reconnecting with Jack isn’t why she came back to town, a little fooling around doesn’t hurt anyone but her main focus lies with bailing her brother out. She owes him that at least. She just doesn’t count on the backlash that followed and kept her in town longer than she had anticipated.

This book had me laughing from the get go, even while writing this review I can’t seem to contain the smile that’s creeping on my face. I really like the writing style and the story itself, it makes me curious to future works of this author. Especially the ones that will feature in this series.

The situation around Chrissy’s brother is quite interesting, he's actually a pretty nice guy you just have to peek underneath his stubborn and jerky exterior. I have a feeling that we will see more of him in his own book. Also Chrissy and Jack’s relationship was fun to follow, it did seem to start out of nowhere and their feelings aren’t quite stable, one minute they are all hot for each and the next they are at each other’s throats. That combined with a couple of nosy town folks who are in the mood for some matchmaking, made for some hilarious and chaotic moments. And that’s exactly what makes it fun, well that and the hot chemistry between the two of them.



I like Chrissy’s character, how circumstances has changed her in a better way. She was done being underestimated, being the shy, nerdy duckling and did something about it. She transformed into a beautiful, confident swan. No more pushover Chrissy. She did have her relapses, mostly when she was in her brother’s presence. The two don't get along but in the end a lot of hurt could have been avoided if they just talked it out. Shows how important communicating is.

And Jack, Jack Daniels can’t believe the author actually did that to him, poor guy. He is a sexy officer and the MMA aspect added to his character gave him a boost. And then his chihuahua came into the picture, the badass guy actually has a chihuahua as pet...My turn to be dumbfounded. In his defense though, the dog does have pit bull blood and it shows, the dog was all bark and bite, maybe even more bite than bark. Still is funny as hell.

As sexy as Jack is, can I have Travis please? He is just too cute and persistent, not to mention that he has me laughing in the most inappropriate moments.

“So, baby, how ‘bout that date?” Travis said.

“Fuck off, Trav! She’s mine!” Jack hissed.

Chrissy took a step towards Jack. Blind fury filled her eyes. Never had he seen her so angry. She reached back and slapped him across the face. Hard. He knew he deserved it.

“Uh…dude? I think not,” Travis said.

Just like you have feel good movies you have feel good books. This is a feel good book and if you love contemporary romances with a sexy bite, you should think on giving “Against the Cage” a chance. You might like it just as much as I do.

[Pheonix Fanfiction · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC recieved by Net Galley in return for a honest review.

My thoughts and feelings while reading:

0.0% ARC recieved by Netgalley - going to bed now but Im going to start this in the morning! :)

3.0% "Now, it all makes sense. You punched me in the ball on purpose!" "No way! That was completely by accident. But, had I known it was you, the results would have probably been the same." This is hilarious so far! :)"

4.0% Jesus Christ! Was this the same goofy little Chrissy Martin? I love the banter between these two - I love that they already know each other but at the same time Chrissy seems to have changed alot so they dont! :) :)"

5.0% She was gorgeous. The once insecure and slightly overweight frumpy girl was now a confident, voluptous well-put-together stunner. I dont know what it is but I cant stop highlighting! Im really enjoying this one so far - I think Im going to love it soon if it continues like this! Its really well written and Im really enjoying these characters and Im only 5% in!"

15.0% He knew she was turned on, but he also knew that if they slept together it would be out of anger and it would only happen once. And, once with this firecracker of a woman would never be enough. Im really starting to love these two! Cant wait to see what happens!"

19.0% "Hmm.. Hope we learn more about Slade and Chrissy's relationship soon. And I wonder what happened to Chrissy?!?"

22.0% "Chris, seriously? Youre going to get me killed. Lets go before I hurl you over my shoulder and carry you straight into my bed, where the only thing you'll be thinking about is a different kind of contact sport." lool! Im loving Jack!! <3 <3 <3"

27.0% "Dont get me wrong, we are going to sleep together. Thats a given. Just not tonight. Lool! I'm LOVING these two! You all need to read this one! :)"

39.0% "Fuck. You destroyed me. You know that? I will never be the same again. Youve completely ruined me for anyone else. And, we havent even had sex yet." Definitely love these two, I have another book boyfriend to add to my growing list!! <3 <3 and Chrissy is a great heroine too!"

40.0% He shook his head trying to get all the thoughts out. His heart and his mind better start getting their shit together, fast! I love seeing what Jacks feeling! <3"

46.0% "Just so you know. Your lips are not allowed to touch my lips chastely. They make me go crazy. So, even if you mean for these little kisses to be innocent, I will always make them into something more. I cant help it. If you dont want me to devour you, dont kiss me." Jesus, Jack says the best things! I LOVE him! <3"

47.0% "You listening libido?" she yelled, loudly to herself. "Hands off the beautiful man!" This line reminds me of Tara Sivec books! :) <3"

61.0% Chrissy couldnt help picturing him pounding on his chest and saying: Me Tarzen. You Jane. He didnt bother communicating. <3 Jack had definitely become a book boyfriend!!! <3"

61.0% She'd never seen him so frenzied. Control and authority clung to him, except when she was involved. Yep! No wonder, Im loving him! I love men like that! <3 <3"

62.0% "That may be too tame a word for what just happened." Hmm.. Dont know how I feel about that scene - it was okay but Ive read scenes that were alot hotter! It seemed a bit mechanical to me :("

64.0% "I have no clue what it is, whether Im thinking differently of what? But it seems different from before, I dont know why but Im no longer loving it. It seems like the characters have changed :/"

68.0% Jack growled. Literally, a deep gutteral growl escaped him. Haha okay this scene is hilarious!! :)"

72.0% Shit. I dont think I handled that well. No Jack you didnt but I get why you did what you did! :)"

75.0% Oh no! Chrissy!! After that minor bilp, Im back to enjoying it again! :) <3 <3

82.0% "WOOOOOOO! GO CHRISSY!!! :D :D <3"

83.0% "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO"

86.0% Jack couldnt remember ever having cried in front of strangers before. Actually, he couldnt remember the last time he cried, at all. But tears pricked the back of his eyes and he choked out the words. :'( oh Jack 3

88.0% he whispered, tears falling. He didnt care who heard him or saw him. I love a man who crys only for his woman. Theres something about it that gets me everytime! Jack is going to break my heart soon though!! 3 3"

91.0% "I wouldnt stop doing something I love. Id start doing someone I love." She snorted. "Oh my God, that was so corny and perverted all at the same time." Haha I agree Chrissy! But it still made me laugh haha <3 <3"

95.0% "You're about to come. I can feel it. You're wet pussy is tightening around my dick." Okay this scene is hotter than the first! <3 I love dirty talk! <3"

100.0% "I really liked this book! The beginning and the end was great! The middle but was a bit bumpy but the rest of the book totally made up for it in my opinion :) I would definitely recommend this and look forward to more books in this series :D"

[Beach Mama · Rating 4 out of 5]

For once, a romance about a MMA fighter that the girl isn't attracted to his fighting. She doesn't understand the joy in violence.

Her childhood crush, Jack, who happens to be her brother's best friend, is a cop who likes to fight once in a while as a hobby. He is the perfect mix of alpha male, sweet and supportive, and sexy personality.



Chrissy, is a doctor who has traveled the world to treat illness for those who could not find otherwise. She harbors deep seated pain and guilt from her past. She can't help but respond to the chemistry between her and Jack. This book is about how their relationship plays out as she examines whether or not she can love the man who loves violence in a cage. Jack is trying to sort through his thoughts and emotions about Chrissy. He is used to being a happy bachelor, but with Chrissy he sees how much joy, happiness and purpose she brings to her life.

Will they be able to overcome their fears and give into the love growing between them?

Overall this was a good read, with an awesome hero who embodies all things sexy.

*** I was given an ARC via the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. ***

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Chrissy Martin left her small home town, she never planned on coming back. Yes, she had a brother that lived there but he made it clear he did not want to be close. When he call to have her bail him out of jail, she heads back home.

Her first day though is not going well, her favorite red heels have met a sad death, a flat tire, a jail house visit, and now she has been pulled over by a cop who she incidentally hits in the nuts on accident. She had no idea her brothers best friend Jack Daniels is such cop. As they bicker, Jack sees Chrissy in a whole new light and he wants a sample. Chrissy is not opposed to the idea until Jack opens his mouth and starts talking. The two together though are an irresistible force and just can't seem to help themselves though.


There is so much more to the story. Chrissy hates violence and both Jack and her brother fight in MMA. This has Chrissy conflicted, she is falling hard for Jack and Jack returns the sentiment but there are old feelings that Chrissy is battling with and it usually ends up with Chrissy running. The chemistry and banter between Chrissy and Jack is steamy, romantic, and humorous. I loved this story, ended up staying up until 4 in the morning reading it, couldn't put it down.

[ysar · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s no way Chrissy Martin’s day can get any worse. Her boyfriend broke up with her by text, her brother needs to be bailed out of jail, she’s had a broken heel and a flat tire, and now she’s being pulled over for speeding. Except the cop is her brother’s best friend, the guy she madly crushed on when she was in school, the guy who screwed her best friend and always made her feel like a stupid little kid. Yes, her day has just gotten worse.

Jack Daniels was cursed with a ridiculous name and an overwhelming need to protect Slade’s little sister Chrissy. She’s been gone for a decade, but she’s back now — and completely different. Gone is the insecure, nerdy little girl he remembers, and in her place is a stunning, accomplished, confident woman who brings him to his knees — literally.

So the cover isn’t bad, but I think it sells the book short. Sure, it’s got a hot guy on the cover, and I suppose he could be a cage fighter. But the story is so much richer and funnier and just plain better than the cover depicts. If I happened across it on Amazon, I probably wouldn’t buy it — which would be a huge mistake.

Best. Opening. Scene. EVER.

I actually put off reading this book for a while. Lately, I’ve read some really fun romances, and I just knew Against the Cage wasn’t going to be as much fun. Oh, how wrong I was.

Chrissy is just awesome. She’s fiesty and willful without being over-the-top, and she definitely holds her own against lover boy Jack and her brother Slade. She’s got a few issues, but she doesn’t carry them around in a big bucket of angst, and so often she had me laughing out loud as she stood up to the guys. I also loved her inner conflict when it came to the whole alpha male thing. On the one hand, she was a strong, capable woman who couldn’t fathom fighting for sport. But at the same time, she was all kinds of hot and bothered when Jack played caveman. Relating to her was instant.

And Jack… Oh my, what a man. He was sexy and witty and sensitive and 100% man. He doesn’t waver in his protectiveness and attraction when it comes to Chrissy, and from the moment he was about to kiss her until the very end, I was swooning right alongside Chrissy. He was the ultimate good guy — big brother role, cop — while playing bad boy with his cage fighting hobby.

The story itself is entertaining and hilarious, from the “part pit bull” chihuahua to the scene at the diner where every available man for a ten-mile radius was hitting on Chrissy. The fact that Jack was the one who came to her rescue after every stunt — and the clumsy adventures she managed just made it perfect. If you’re a fan of intense chemistry, men in uniform, alpha males and strong feminine leads, and laughing your way through a great romance, this book was made for you.

*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Victoria · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Please tell me I didn’t just hit you in the…” She was too humiliated to say the word.

“In the balls? Yes, lady, you punched me right in the balls.”

…

“You don’t have to be an ass,” she murmured under her breath. But, as soon as it slipped out of her mouth, she regretted it.

“Did you just call me an ass, right after punching me in the balls? Ya’ know, I’ve tasered people for less.”


Against the Cage by author Sidney Halston is the first book in her Worth The Fight series and is a stand-alone contemporary romance. There will be additional books in the series but each is expected to focus on one couple and have a HEA.

The story starts with Chrissy Martin returning home to her childhood hometown to bail her brother, MMA fighter Slade, out of jail. She almost immediately runs into childhood family friend, Jack Daniels, who is not only a sexy police officer but also a MMF fighter. Chrissy and Jack discover that as adults, the chemistry between them is hard to ignore. But Chrissy is struggling to cope with hurts from her past and her negative feelings about Slade and Jack’s choice to fight in a sport she feels is brutal and violent.

I wanted to like Against the Cage. Sexy MMA fighters are always a big draw for me =) Unfortunately, it fell a little short of my expectations. It started out cute and funny and I could see the potential of the story as I read, but something just felt “off”. Chrissy’s feelings about fighting and her dislike of what her brother and Jack did became repetitive. There was an overall feeling of immaturity though the story. Chrissy was supposedly an experienced doctor who had been travelling the word on her own for years but many times she came more like an adolescent than an adult.

It seems like a second book will eventually be released and I’m guessing this will be Slade’s story. Based off of Against the Cage, I wouldn’t place additional books in the series at the top of my TBR list but I leave the door open for the author and series to develop more. I could see the potential but it never got past being just average for me (with a dose of annoying). A 3.25 STAR READ.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Jamie *Gypsy Smut-a-teer* · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a good fighter book, even more than that, I love a good book where the brothers best friend falls in love with said brothers sister, haha, does that make sense?!? SO, of course this book packed a punch.

Crissy is having a really bad day. First, her boyfriend broke up with her vi text, she's already having to drive back to her hometown, which she detests and hasn't been to in 11 years to bail out her brother from jail. She's had a flat, and now she's being pulled over for speeding. Yep, about the worst day EVER. Except....

There is more damage to come....

While digging through all of her stuff to find her license and registration she accidentally hits the cop in the junk, only to find out the cop is her brothers best friend who loved to torture her as a kid. This day just can't seem to be worse.

Jack can't believe what he's seeing. Chrissy? Could it really be Chrissy, the little girl he remembers following him and Slade around all of his childhood? Wow, he can't believe how she's grown up and turned into a gorgeous woman. He instantly wants her, and of course at first resists but the longer time they spend together the harder it is to resist.

I really liked Crissy and Jack together. I think she really needed Jack in her life to help her, maybe grown up a little?? I don't know, there were times she was quite annoying. I understand she was a dr, and doctors are supposed to be against violence completely. But sometimes she was a little too mother hen for me. I think Jack pegged it right on the head when he said she was too judgy. Jack on the other hand was the definition of cool. He was such a guys guy, and I just loved him. His personality, his patience, his sometimes bossiness, and of course his dirty talk. Crissy seemed to be a better, happier, and more understanding person when Jack was around. ;)

I'm doing an Arc for book three for a blog, so I'm catching up with the books in the series prior to it. Slade seems to be an interesting character and will probably get himself into lots of trouble before he gets tied down, lol. Can't wait to see what happens. ;)

[CeCe · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the heroine, Chrissy. I liked Jack. I loved Drogo.
The premise of the story was really good, I just felt like some parts of the story lacked some.

I love these stories about two people who knew each other when they were younger and finally have an opportunity to become more than friends.
Even though I enjoyed the book, I just needed and wanted a little more. I cannot put my finger on it. The story was not rushed, but I think I just needed a little bit more depth. Some of the scenes were written really well while others lacked some. In the end, it was just a nice story.

A copy was provided by Random House Publishing Group – Loveswept via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[CC · Rating 3 out of 5]

re read via audio. was ok second time around. not as good as the first reading. kinda stupid plot with immature heroine and strange hero. Had to bring down the score.

Original comments:

4 stars. This was a good read. Sweet, sexy, fun and hot. I enjoyed it and found myself rooting for the couple to find their HEA. The pace was good, the drama was appropriate and overall I really enjoyed this read!

Safety Gang exception
ring girl ex kisses him before a fight

[Anas Attic Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Against the Cage by Sydney Haltson
Contemporary Romance. Cage Fighter. Each book stands alone.
I had Against the Cage by Sidney Halston on my kindle for a while, but it kept getting pushed back, so when I got it on audio, I was so excited! The sample sounded great! I am very picky about narrators, and I very much liked the voice of Chrissy, the heroine in Against the Cage.

Chrissy is a Doctor. She has been working in a Doctors without Borders type of deal around the world, and is about to finally settle in Miami, when she gets a call from her brother in her hometown of Tarpon Springs. He needs to be bailed out. Again. So she heads up in her crappy car for the long drive.

Chrissy’s day goes from bad to worse when she breaks a heel, gets a flat tire, then gets pulled over by the cops. She is clearly a bit clumsy, because she even has a mishap with the officer!

Jack squinted. "Chris?"
"Hi, Jack."
"Now, it all makes sense. You punched me in the balls on purpose!"
"No way! That was completely by accident. But, had I known it was you, the results would have probably been the same."

Turns out the officer was her brother’s best friend growing up. To him she was always “Chrissy Prissy” and they would exclude her from everything. But a lot had changed in 11 years.

One long, fair, well-defined leg in the sexiest red high heels he’d ever seen stepped out of the car. Then, the other. Jesus Christ! Was this the same goofy little Chrissy Martin? Somehow, Jack had transformed into one of those cartoon characters whose eyes popped in and out of its socket. Holy hot legs, Batman!

Chrissy has been holding a grudge against Jack for years for a high school misunderstanding, and she took off 11 years earlier after her brother, Slade, drunkenly blamed her for their father’s death.

Sade and Jack are also MMA fighters. While Jack is a police officer, Slade, Chrissy’s brother, has no other job, and is trying to fight big fights to make money to fulfill his dream. Bigger, illegal fights. Chrissy needs to stop the fights, but Jack needs to stop her from getting hurt or hurting her brother by distraction him.

While spending time together Chrissy and Jack realize their feelings are more than the brotherly feeling you get towards your friend’s sister, and holy hell, Jack is a total hottie. And the scene “Against the cage”? OMG, Mr. Ana was happy.



Likes:

•I liked the narrations of the audiobook.
•Light, fun and very sexy read.
•Lots of smiles and giggles.
•Drogo: “half chihuahua/half pit bull” Or so he thinks.
•Against the cage fooling around.
•Very relatable heroine.

Dislikes:

•Chrissy seemed very immature at times. It was hard to see how she was a Doctor saving lives in a 3rd world country.
•Lost it’s way just a bit in the middle after a super amazing start.
•There were some slightly cheesy moments.

Rating: 4.25 Stars, 4.5 Heat






Purchase Against the Cage by Sidney Halston

Amazon Audible BN.com iBooks

The Down and Dirty:

I think Against the Cage was a great start to a series that I think will get better. I enjoyed the narration, but I do believe that perhaps her immature voice may have contributed to my thinking that Chrissy herself is immature , plus, her insisting on Chrissy and not Chris was just plain annoying. Sidney Halston wrote a great sexy, funny, angsty second chance friends to lovers book here, and I look forward to reading more in the series.

Full Contact is 99¢ and Laid Out is coming in August. .

Read more of my reviews and sale and free lists at Ana's Attic Book Blog and please join my Facebook page with sales, freebies and giveaways daily!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher via Netgalley for Blog Tour

Amazon Pre-Order link--->> Against the Cage: Worth the Fight Series

~~ 5 Stars ~~

Against the Cage is Sidney Halston's Debut novel and I thought she knocked this one out of the park!!! I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I was sucked in from page one all the way through. I thought the storyline and characters were extremely well developed and written. Call me a sucker, but I LOVE a book about MMA fighters. This book was so much more then just a fighter love story. It was actually more of a friends to lovers story. The main characters have known each other for over 20 years. The Hero was the heroine's brother's BFF. (I hope that made sense…lol) This book really had my emotions working overtime. One minute I was laughing and the next was yelling or crying. I love when a book can tap into so many different emotions throughout the book. I thought the pace of the book was really good, it's a fairly quick read but nothing was rushed and I think just enough information was given without it being too much causing it to drag on. This book is part of a series but can be read as a standalone, because the next book is about another character. This book is a complete story with an AMAZING epilogue. (Which actually sets up for the next book, I believe)

This story is based around childhood friends, Slade, Jack and Chrissy. Slade and Chrissy are siblings and Jack has been Slade's BFF since they were young. We learn about their friendship through the course of the book. I wouldn't say that Chrissy had a huge crush on Jack when they were younger, but I think she really just looked up to him. A tragic event happens when Chrissy was 18 and caused her to leave for 11 years. The story starts there with Chrissy going back to her hometown to help bail her brother out of trouble. When she arrives in town after having the worst day, she is pulled over by a cop for speeding….In comes Jack :) This is where there story begins. Over the course of the story we watch Jack and Chrissy really start to fall for each other. I thought the speed the author took things with them was great. They had some issues that needed to be resolved before they could move forward. These two had amazing chemistry…let me just say that they knew how to heat up the page ;) I thought Chrissy was a great character….she was slightly broken from past events, but she also became a stronger person because of them. I loved that she didn't take any crap from Jack and eventually was able to stand up to her brother too.

Now I know this is going to sounding funny but I LOVED Drogo the chihuahua (1/4 pitbull according to Jack) This dog was hilarious. You really just need to read this book to get the full effect of Drogo. He will have you laughing so hard.

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a friends to lovers story with some MMA action. You won't want to miss this book !!!!

For more reviews go to Book Bitches Blog

[Heather andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh sh** I almost pissed myself laughing! This book is laugh out loud funny, the characters have history and so much chemistry Jack holy sh** I loved his a**, "did you just growl at me, ma'am? No stupid, I groaned not growled. She groaned again. "Lady, I'm speaking to you." The first page hooks you into the story and from there it just gets better especially Jack, "in the balls? Yes, lady, you punched me right in the balls." Since finding out who he pulled over Jack's imagination runs into over time, "so, where do you want me?" Chrissy asked, as she took off her shoes. Completely naked and spread over the hood of my police cruiser with that tiny little black dress pulled up over your hips, is what he almost blurted out. "Excuse me?" is what he managed to say instead." He's a bossy one, "well, the ham, cheese, and butter are in the fridge and the bread is in the pantry. Get to work woman," he winked at her and began unbuttoning his shirt." Jack seriously would do anything for Chrissy even if it meant embarrassing his a**, "clad in just white boxer-briefs, Jack went outside, crossed his lawn and strode to her car with the biggest hard-on he'd ever had in his entire life. Disconcerted, yet wound up, he prayed that none of his neighbors saw him. But really, he didn't care. His mind was elsewhere, specifically on the half naked vixen inside his house playing nurse." Apparently in Jack's mind when it comes to Chrissy nothing is off limits, "are you on the pill Chrissy?" God, he was so brazen! No beating around the bush with this man." Even though always tempted Jack always tries to give Chrissy and out, "he hands found his nipple and she pinched. "Ah, hell. You sure you're up for this Chrissy, because that pinch went straight to my di**, and now I don't know if I can say no." I loved this book, there's not much else I can say but me loving it.

[Snow · Rating 3 out of 5]

barely 3 stars



damn, I wanted to like this story more, but I just simply found the tempo, the heroine and both male characters, untipically excessive in their actions.

Crissy, the female character, is overly melodramatic, almost theatrical in her interactions and I had uncomfortable chilling feeling while reading her lines, it's like she wasn't speaking her words at all, regardless the fact she's a fictional character to start with...



the same thing happened with Jack and her brother Slade...they are totally hilariously immature, trying to be cool in their posture and verbal expressions (ex. hey dude...), but I just couldn't get pass that first impression that they are still pricks that haven't grown and have the need to still act like foolish adolescents pulling pranks, fighting and having the contest who'll scratch an itch more, longer or harder...



I had a feeling that the situations were meant/imagined to be displayed as funny and humorous and it absolutely started like that, BUT somewhere along the way, due to the abundance of excessive and overly emphasized "humor" it ended up being NOT COMICAL at all, furthur yet, more absurd in making them look like caricatures rather then characters.

The storyline was ok, but since I couldn't connect with the "carriers" of the very same story, I have no need to re-tell it, at all.

[Sabrina · Rating 3 out of 5]

2 1/2 stars

Many people think that the first book of a series wont be as good as the following ones...THAT.HAPPENED.HERE!


It started interesting enough with the story of the once annoying little sister with a bookworm look, who used to have a crush in her brother´s best friend, leaves town after high school, tragedy strikes and doesn't come back to the little town she grew up. 11 years later she comes back to bail her brother, all dolled up with sexy-librarian look and NOW the brother´s best friend (who is a cop and a MMA fighter) takes notice.


I felt I was dealing with highschoolers with all the "Dude-ing" and the "he-said-she-said" stuff and not 30 y/o and it led me to this:


and this:


and this:


At the end, I was able to finish it, things got slightly better but I don't know If will be picking up the second one so soon.
Feel like I need a breather.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Against the Cage was racked with sexual tension, testosterone driven cage fighting while still adding a good dose of humor.

Chrissy returns home after 11 years to bail her brother out of jail. What she didn't count on was the undeniable attraction to her brother's best friend, Jack, or her brother's self-destructive life choices. There is no doubt the characters have steam factor going for them. But can Chrissy break through her past and deal with both her brother and Jack?

I had a few issues that kept me from completely loving this story. Don't get me wrong, I did like Against the Cage. I really enjoyed the sexual chemistry and anticipation. Chrissy's interaction with Jack's dog is hilarious as well as many playful one liners back and forth between Jack and Chrissy. Ultimately, I found this story to be a quick, easy, enjoyable and steamy read 3.5 Stars.

I received this ARC copy of Against the Cage from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication May 27, 2014.

[namericanwordcat · Rating 2 out of 5]

I rooted for this book to be better than it was the entire but in the end it just wasn't good. It wasn't bad but it wasn't good.

I like how the hero was gobsmacked by the heroine and really liked her attitude and everything else. I also enjoyed the little MMA details threaded throughout the book.

The rest was pretty ordinary and not in a "yea! my favorite themes" way.

What tipped the romance from being good are these sorts of things:

The "I was a nerd but now I am hot" thing always grates on me a bit but I was able to move past that.

Repetitions of thoughts and ideas.

Her brother is a jerk. I have zero interest in reading a book about him.

There was frenzy in the plot. Fast paced can be good but we get little insight into the hero at this pace and less couple time.

The logic of the characters is odd and how a cop promotes piece is odder.

I will try another book by this writer though. Promise is here.

I was given this book for my honest review. So, there you have it.

[Kara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Toni said to read this - it'll make you giggle.

AND IT DID.

I read this book quick. I thought it was a fun read. I am excited for the next book! BRING IT ON!!

[Svenja · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5 Sterne

[Dianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

After eleven years away from the town she grew up, Chrissy finds herself taking a dreaded journey home to come to the aid of her brother. To make matters worse, she is pulled over by a local police officer who she promptly (and accidentally) punches in a most delicate area. Think that’s bad? The officer is her brother’s best friend, Jack Daniels, the boy she had a secret crush on for years when she was the nerdy, chubby, pesky baby sister. Now she is a well-traveled doctor, independent and outspoken and unrecognizable. In a case of hot guy sees hot girl and one match added to the mix could cause major flames, the fireworks begin!

Chrissy (Don’t call me Chris) becomes ensnared in her childhood fantasies coming to life, but can Jack be trusted? Both her brother and Jack fuel their inner violent side with fighting, brutal knock down fighting and it’s all (pretty much) legal. Will nightmares from the past surface and scare Chrissy away?

Against the Cage by Sidney Halston is chock full of humor, heat and great banter between the main characters! This is quick and easy reading, with a down and dirty steam factor that works. The addition of one awesome little Chihuahua more than once sent me into giggles. While the ending is pretty much a given, the journey was well worth the read as two people learn to trust and be trusted and to give in to love.

I received an ARC edition from Loveswept in exchange for my honest review.

Series: Worth the Fight - Book 1
Publication Date: May 27, 2014
Publisher: Loveswept
ISBN: 9780553390964
Genre: Contemporary Romance - Adults
Print Length: 256 Pages
Available From: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

[Book Reading Gals · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: Against the Cage

Series: Worth the Fight Book #1

Author: Sidney Halston

Genre: Romance

Blurb: In her Loveswept debut, Sidney Halston turns up the heat as a sexy cage fighter shows a former bookworm how delicious a few rounds between the sheets can be. For Chrissy Martin, returning to her Florida hometown always seems to bring bad luck. The day starts with a breakup text, followed by a jailhouse phone call from her troublemaker brother. Now a routine traffic stop has ended with her accidentally punching an officer . . . in a delicate place. Then Chrissy realizes that the hot cop on the receiving end of her right hook is none other than the man from her teenage fantasies. Jack Daniels knows how to take a hit. After all, when he’s not chasing reckless drivers, he’s kicking ass in a mixed martial arts ring. So what takes his breath away isn’t the low blow, but the woman who dealt it: a gorgeous knockout with legs Jack wouldn’t mind being pinned under—who just so happens to be his best friend’s nerdy little sister, all grown up. Soon their instant chemistry leads to a sizzling affair, but Jack and Chrissy are fighting an uphill battle if they want to make love last beyond the final bell.



Thoughts: This was just a great book - no doubt about it! It wasn't quite what I was expecting, particularly since I thought the whole MMA fighting would take a more prominent role in the story. It was more of a side story, and related more towards Chrissy's brother overall. The story is more about newly developing feelings between old friends, but it has a little of everything: it ranges from funny to sweet to simply HOT! And the combination of characters - including the territorial pit bull-in-the-body-of-a-chihuahua, Drogo - was just amazing! This one was a joy to read, and I definitely recommend it.

Rate: B
Review by: Sarah
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review

OMG I have been totally blown away by this book - if you like cage fighter/MMA books and men in uniform and hot Alphas this really is one to go on to your TBR list! Even better the main characters were not in college or young adults, they have lived and experienced life.

Due to the fact that release day is still a while off I would not want to give any spoilers and my review is written to reflect that.

I do not know if this is the first in a new series by Sidney Halston or not but I hope that there will be more as the book has some fantastic secondary characters all waiting to tell their stories and all of them sound as tough, masculine, cage fighters as well.

The book had testosterone, sweat and blood oozing from practically every page (along with a few scenes the contained additional body fluids!), it was a compelling read that I just could not bear to put down and having just finished it I find myself in a real slump because it's finished.

This is definitely not suitable for younger readers and contains scenes of an extremely adult nature including sex, domestic violence, legal and illegal cage fighting and profanity. But if you like them hot, rough and Alpha get the release date in your diary or pre-order it because you won't regret it!

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was awesome! I love a good fighter romance and this one was really fantastic! This book had me hooked from the first page and I couldn't put it down. I think the thing I liked the most was the humor. There were a couple laugh-out-loud moments. I really loved Jack - so sexy! A cop and a fighter - such a sexy combination. Crissy is smart, funny and sweet and her and Jack together were so hot! I loved that there wasn't any stupid drama and the the storyline was fast paced and interesting. I really loved this book and can't wait to read more in this series! Highly recommend!

**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**

[Heroesinbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 JACK & CHRISSY STARS


Good solid start to what looks like being an excellent series. This is Jack and Chrissy's story. He is her brothers best friend and they have known each other since early childhood. Chrissy returns to their hometown after 11 yrs away and the two of them find themselves reconnecting and their relationship and feelings for each other change considerably. This book sets the scene for future characters stories.
Lots of humour, some sweet moments, little bit of heat, good dose of drama. No cheating. Really likeable H/h. Jack is an MMA fighter on the side but his job is a Police Officer. What a lovely combo!! Yum.

[~ Cariad ~]