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Nathan Lewis always finds himself at the wrong place at the wrong time.

Burdened by his guilt, Nate’s unable to let go of his painful memories. He keeps to himself, refusing to let anyone else in for fear that they’ll learn the truth.

When a nosy reporter starts investigating his past, the skeletons Nate’s kept locked up tight in his closet start to rattle, threatening to surface and ruin him.

Alyssa Grant is only looking for a front page story to advance her career. Recently widowed and now raising her son on her own, she has no intentions of getting involved with a man, especially not one who uses his fists for a living. But she quickly realizes that there’s more to Nathan Lewis than he reveals. Like Alyssa, he’s also grieving from a loss that he blames himself for.

Only the deeper Alyssa digs, the more she begins to realize that a horrible accident from Nate’s past may turn out to be more than it seems, putting his life, and the lives of everyone around him, in danger.

Now that Nate has something worth losing again, he refuses to go down without a fight, in or out of the cage.

222 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 8, 2016

185 people are currently reading
503 people want to read

About the author

Lane Hart

188 books1,772 followers
Lane Hart is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author. She lives in North Carolina with her husband, D.B. West, and their two children. She loves all things beach related, especially sea turtles, and is a huge fan of the Carolina Panthers.

Connect with Lane:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/WritingfromHart
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/lanehartbooks
Website: https://www.authorlanehart.com/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/lane-...

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
Profile Image for Sara Oxton.
3,800 reviews17 followers
July 18, 2017
Nate by Lane Hart a Cocky five-star read. This is the sixth book in the Cocky Cage Fighter series, and they can be read as stand-alone reads but I have read them as a series in order and they go from strength to strength, Nate has always intrigued me as a character but I do love me a bit of hot ginger biscuit.
Lane Hart broke me with the last book in the series Senn, and this one just made me love the series even more. I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel when I had an inkling of what was coming after reading the previous books and seeing glimpses of Nates story, but I loved it, it was so much hotter than I could have imagined.
Nathan Lewis has always been the quiet one, teaching rather than fighting in the eight-sided cage, he has always been trying to forget the past, and find a way to live with the guilt he has felt. When he does a silly thing, that saves some people in a place he is worried he shouldn’t be he finds himself in the spot light and fighting to keep his life private. But sometimes secrets are meant to be revealed.
Alyssa Grant is a recent widow with a son who is lovingly referred to as the Little Professor, as he is a grown man in a little body he has an old head on young shoulders, when his mother who is a pacifist sees him observing a mixed martial arts class she freaks and refuses to allow him to do what he enjoys until she gets the chance to interview one of the mixed martial arts teachers for a pay rise and promotion in work. Everything seems to be going smooth, until a little thing calls feelings get involved.
Will Alyssa be able to turn down her commitments and get over her worries for her son? And will Nate ever be able to get over his past? I can’t wait to read Tricks next, seven is my lucky number, but will it be my lucky book? Lane Hart you are amazing.
Profile Image for Robyn G.
Author 1 book47 followers
October 1, 2016
Like every other Lane Hart book i fell in insta love.

The more i read about these Cocky Cage fighters the more i think Lane has superpowers.
How else would you explain how she steals my heart so quick with her words?

Nathan was just as hot and sweet as you'd expect.
And his past!
I wanted to jump into the book and hug the crap out of him!

Alyssa was feisty as ever!
Nate calla her his kitten and he is right!
She wasn't afraid to call Nate on his shit.
She's quick to jumo to conclusions before Nathan has had a chance to explain himself like every other heroine.

I honestly can't wait to see what rlse Lane comes up with for the next one!

Profile Image for Aileen Day.
100 reviews7 followers
September 28, 2016
I was lucky enough to get a Arc of Nate for a honest review and I have got to say this book is awesome I was hooked from the very beginning and couldn't put this book down. I have loved all the cocky fighter novels but this one is my favourite Nate hasn't had it easy and he deserves some happiness.
Lane has become one of my favourite authors and I look forward to reading her books I can't wait to read more. I have left 5 stars for this book and it deserves them all I recommend you read this book
Profile Image for Mommaleena.
678 reviews14 followers
July 18, 2017
Nate (A Cocky Cage Fighter #6) by Lane Hart
• Let Go
WARNING: THIS BOOK IS INTENDED FOR MATURE AUDIENCES 18 + ONLY. THE STORY CONTAINS ADULT LANGUAGE AND EXPLICIT SEX SCENES, INCLUDING A REFERENCE TO AN M/ M RELATIONSHIP!
What an emotional story. After a traffic lots, do you admire yourself a second chance? Nate and Alyssa have to decide if it's time to let go and live again. You'll have to eat their story to find out how it turns out. There were some pretty tense situations within this story and I shed a few tears, I cannot wait to read more! I got hooked on this series as soon as I started reading Jax! While each of these stories in this series are their own standalone HEA, reading the series from the beginning will give you more background and depth of the complete story. Time to go read Trick's story!!
Due to sexual and adult situations this novel is recommended for 18 and older.
Favorite Passage
• Wrong place at the wrong time
Profile Image for Daisy Green.
9 reviews
July 22, 2017
Best series I have ever read. Lane Hart is amazing author. You need this series in your life. These Cage fighters have every right to be to be Cocky.
Profile Image for Kara.
1,414 reviews25 followers
June 6, 2019
Can't walk away from this series... I love the MMA fighters. HAVOC is a gripping me.
Profile Image for Scrap.
882 reviews6 followers
January 25, 2017
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book

Nate Lewis has been one of those characters that has been in the books but in the background we finally get his story. This book is heartbreaking in more than one way. Nate has lost the love of his life, three years ago today in a horrific car accident. Nate walked away without a scratch. The thing is NO one knew who his true love was, that is until that night. And then only a few realized what was going on, This book deals with homosexuality, bisexuality, and true love, Death, bigotry and second chances. Not only does Nate deal with his loss but so does Alyssa, who lost her husband in the war, he left her and her son Greyson. The circumstances to Alyssa's story are truly sad as well. I LOVED how Alyssa and Nate connected, but the secrets that they held also tore them apart. This book will make you cry your eyes out in sadness, and joy, it will make you mad and make you happy.I only had one complaint I really needed Nate and Luke to have more together but I am sure that is to come!!! I LOVE all of these books and cannot wait to continue reading this series. I am completely HOOKED on the Havoc fighters!!!
Profile Image for Samantha Holly.
329 reviews3 followers
June 18, 2017
I am simply loving this series. Each book has been able to get me completely involved in the story and this one was no different. This is the sixth book in this series and is truly heartbreaking. It deals with issues that are common thread in today's society: the acceptance of homosexuality/bisexuality.

Nathan (Nate) Lewis is an MMA fighter at Havoc. He is a likable character who struggles with survivor’s guilt for walking away from a crash that took the love of his life. Every year on the anniversary, rather than attend a memorial service, Nate finds himself back at the same bar ordering two drinks in memory of the person he lost.

Seeing a flash of a gun in a guy’s jacket, he is able to prevent an incident by using his quick reflexes and taking down the armed assailant. After the cops arrive, he asks the Detective to withhold his personal details. He doesn't see himself as a hero and he feels the need to keep his skeletons in the closet and hidden from the public eye.

For three years he has been unable to go back into the cage for his infliction towards the sight of blood. Happy to remain in the background, he continues to train and teach students at Havoc and the local Y.

Nate is a damaged and confused soul. He has the belief no-one will want him for him especially once they realize who he truly is. He has only been in love with one other person but this all changes when a feisty reporter for the Cary Journal storms into the local Y he is teaching.

Alyssa is a single mother to her son Grayson after her late husband died in Afghanistan. She has spent many months coming to terms with her loss and managed to get a job with the Cary Journal writing obituaries. Her big break comes when her boss (also her sister-in-law) gives her the story to find out who the mystery man that took down the armed man and find out if he truly is the hero everyone believes him to be.

Walking into the local Y to collect her son Grayson, she is horrified to find him watching an MMA class for youngsters. She believes this is a barbaric sport and tells the hot instructor exactly what she thinks of him. Knowing she has to apologize to him to get her story, she is shocked to learn from his fellow fighters that Nate has not dated for three years. She is even more shocked when he refuses a date with her unless she agrees to allow her son to participate in the classes for a month. Knowing she has no choice and also needing to get Grayson out of his shell as little, she agrees.

When Nate's sexuality is outed (after the article is published) he is initially hurt by Alyssa's actions but realizes she is worth fighting for in and out of the cage. With the help of his mum, he finds a way to Alyssa's heart is through her son and with the help of her friend Patrick, he begins the biggest fight of his life - to win back her trust.

Finally, together again, things seem to be back on track. Nate has an instant family with the woman he loves. But things soon start happening around him that begin to arouse his suspicions that someone is targeting him. It’s not long after, the reporter in Alyssa surfaces and she begins to dig deeper in the background. Uncovering a pattern, she immediately contacts the Detective from the initial police report. As each little bit of information is given, the pieces finally start coming together as Alyssa reveals the traumatic event of Nathan’s past may not have been an accident after all.

Realizing he deserves to be happy, Nate is determined to protect those he loves.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Shannon  Williams.
586 reviews7 followers
July 6, 2021
No Lie - I Reread Nate Twice!
I’ve made it pretty clear that I am hooked on Lane Hart’s Cocky Cage Fighters series - particularly now that I’ve read every single one ...in order...from the beginning. What can I say? I’m a little obsessive about all of my favorite series! “Nate” is Book 6 in Hart’s series, and it packs such an emotional punch in addition to the steamy chemistry and MMA action that I read it three times in succession. That’s something I rarely do, but I felt compelled. Nathan Lewis and Alyssa Grant have both been through the worst kind of loss, and it makes their road to HEA that much sweeter for the journey. Nate is a hot, sexy MMA fighter who is immediately attracted to Alyssa, a beautiful reporter, single mom, and widow. This story is heavy at times, dealing with years of guilt and pain, some suspenseful loose ends, and a wonderful love story at its heart. And honestly, Hart gives a tough topic like sexual identity the credit it so richly deserves. Characters from earlier stories in the series are woven seamlessly into the current tale, and the introduction of new side characters - like growly, intense military veteran Patrick - just makes it that much better. Loved this story so much! Five well-deserved stars.
Profile Image for Shaly.
1,198 reviews
May 16, 2018
I just really cannot stand people who are just so judgmental! Like how does it affect you if a woman is in love with another woman or a man is in love with another man? Does that prevent you from paying your bills or living your life! I just don't fucking get it!

At first I thought Alyssa was one of those intolerant people after finding out about Nate's past with Eli, her reaction and conversation with Candice left much to be desired and I felt so disappointed in her, but I'm not ashamed to admit I was wrong about her. Her number one priority is always her son and that just makes her a really good mother, even if she does make stupid decisions.

Nate, I hate to say it but I had no clue who he was! His character was always in the background so unfortunately easily forgettable. Once his red hair was brought into the light, then I remembered who he was. He was actually a very sweet guy who was dealt a shitty hand in life. It happens but it was nice to see him finally move on after Eli and find his HEA.
341 reviews29 followers
January 5, 2017
Lack of Chemistry

While I've enjoyed this series and am a big Lane Hart fan, I can't say I liked this book as well as the rest. It just seemed to be too forced. I had a hard time getting to know Nate and Alyssa which made me much less emotionally invested in the story. Alyssa's sudden and immediate turn around regarding Nate just didn't make sense. I know she wanted to get the scoop on his heroic act of bravery, but to be so opposed to everything he represented, she changed her mind about him with really no reason. He's a Havoc fighter, so of course we know that he's a great guy, but she doesn't know that! The chemistry wasn't there as it has been with the other couples in this series. I did like the added layer of Nate's bisexuality, but he still was not as dimensional of a character as the other men of Havoc. All this said, I still love this series, and am looking forward to the next book.
Profile Image for Kelly G (Now Accepting Book Boyfriend Applications).
1,110 reviews87 followers
July 13, 2017
Nate is my new favorite!!! I really do think that I have fallen in love with this man!!! (don't tell my husband)

This is a book about bringing together 2 people who have experienced real loss! Alyssa's husband died while deployed with the Marines. Nate lost his love (who was actually a man) to a terrible car wreck that they were in. He literally died in Nate's arms. He thought he would never love again..... until he met Alyssa. Alyssa has a son, who Nate really identifies with. They really could be one big happy family! But nothing is ever that easy. Secrets are revealed. Forgiveness is granted. Then comes the drama! Their story did not just end with Nate and Alyssa overcoming the secrets they kept from each other, or the lies they told. I really did enjoy the bit of suspense that was thrown in there toward the end. It was another great read. I am really enjoying this series. Now on to the next one!
Profile Image for Tracy.
432 reviews6 followers
April 19, 2021
Two lost people find happiness


I read this via my ku subscription and am leaving my review voluntarily. It is book 6
of an ongoing series. Characters from previous books make an appearance. 

Triggers:
memories of m/m relationship, some violence, OM drama, stalker

Spoilers:
Nate, MMA fighter at Havoc. He doesn't date as he is still mourning the loss of his secret boyfriend. But when he meets his new students mom, he is attracted to her.

Alyssa, widow, single mom. reporter. Doesn't approve of Nate teaching the children fighting classes but then has to suck it up so she can get a good story for her paper. 

After years of not dating, Nate takes a chance on Alyssa not realizing she's a liar and only using him to get a story. Nate is falling hard for Allyssa but he wants to tell her about his prior relationship with a man.

A bit of suspense but it wraps up quickly. Nate was likeable from the start. It took longer for me to like Alyssa.  HEA

Profile Image for Roberta.
174 reviews
July 12, 2017
I was given an ARC in exchange of a honest review.
She did it again, Lane Hart wrote another amazing story!
When a series goes on and on with so many books, most of the times the stories lose quality and spark. But in this series it doesn't happen! I'm very happy to read these books and see stories so different from one another and characters that actually live in the book. Reading this series you are transposed in the Havoc's big family and become an active reader who, when characters talk, is there with them and, when characters fight, is in the first line shouting the name of the team mate!
The story is well written as always, but I'd like to make my compliments to the author who is capable of dealing with delicate themes treating them honestly and simply. It's a gift!
Profile Image for Jaime.
671 reviews20 followers
March 12, 2017
I love this series. The men of Havoc are always so endearing and charming and so are the women..up until this point. This was easily my least favorite book.

I actually really liked Nate. He is exactly what you expect from a Havoc man-loyal, sweet, charming, with a bit of an edge. I liked the bisexual aspect because it's not something you expect. He's just a really great person and his sincerity oozes from him.

Alyssa was awful. She came across as stuffy and snobby. Her dialogue was old and outdated and she was pretty selfish. She treated Nate like crap until she wanted something and basically looked down on the sport he had dedicated his life to. She clearly worried about her son and his socialization but when she and Nate broke up (for a slightly ridiculous reason) she decided to stop Grayson's MMA lessons when that is the ONLY thing in his life that he loved. And it was all because she didn't want to see Nate or chance running into him. Put your feelings aside for the betterment of your child. Speaking of Grayson, I wanted more development from him. I was hoping we would find out why he acted the way he did and maybe see him come out of his shell a little more.

The ending was so quick and everything was wrapped up really quickly. The major thing happened, which wasn't even started until around 75%, then it was resolved, then Alyssa finally became more accepting of Nate and his lifestyle, Grayson suddenly has a relationship and we're done. Finito. No mas. Just...what. the. hell.

Every series has that one book that feels like it barely belongs and doesn't hold a candle to the other books. This is that book. I will absolutely read Patrick's book and any books thereafter because, like I said, I love this series. Overall recommendation? Skip this book. You're not missing anything.
Profile Image for my CHAOTIC BOOK CLOSET .
1,019 reviews1,473 followers
July 24, 2017
Amazing Story of Second Chances and Overcoming Obstacles!

Another amazing read from Author Lane Hart.
This woman seriously knows how to write a story with just the right amount of EVERYTHING!!
The angst and suspense is nail biting.
The plot has the perfect amount of layers to peel back one at a time.
The characters are lovable and swoonworthy.
Nate and Alyssa were fierce together.
This story was so good! I couldn't get enough.
I absolutely loved Nate and I loved how the author still pulls previous characters into the book without overdoing it. Just enough for you to remember why you love them all so much!
Highly enjoyed Nate's book!!
Profile Image for Mary Winstead.
1,263 reviews16 followers
Read
December 10, 2017
On the anniversary of his love's death, Nate is at the bar having a drink. When out of the corner of his eye he sees a man pulling a gun out. Without thinking Nate takes him down. The cops call him a hero, but he's thinks he's anything but. Alyssa is getting over her husband's death. Raising a seven year old on her own is tough. So when her boss tells to her to the story about Nate Lewis, she's game. Their first meeting didn't go so well since she went off on Nate for letting her son watch him train kids for MMA. So when she goes to havoc to get Nate's story. She ends up asking him out. Nate only agrees when she lets her son join havoc. Can Alyssa get this story or does Her feelings intercept? Can Nate move on from his lost love? Great story. Couldn't put down till I was done.
Profile Image for Jolene Huber.
877 reviews11 followers
June 25, 2017
Things are not always what they seem.

This book is about Nate. He is still coming to terms of the death of Eli. Eli was also a fighter and the only man Nate has been with. He doest consider himself gay more bi-sexual. In walks Alyssa a widdowed single mother. Who at first is hell bent on shutting down the defense teaching at the Y until Nate makes a deal with her to get Grayson to participate. A man from Nate's past threatens their happiness. Will their love see them through
Profile Image for Bonne.
57 reviews
September 16, 2017
More than expected

This book in the series has got more going on than meets the eye at first glance. I like that Nate has a serious back story, I wish they would have gotten to it sooner than they did, but maybe I'm picky. I don't want to give anything away, but let me just say that I didn't see the major climax of the story coming. Crazy 😉
I do have to say that I'm frustrated that almost 20% of the book at the end is a sneak peak at the next book in the series. I mean come on! It throws off the page count of the actual novel. Ugh!
Profile Image for Amber Fueston.
1,540 reviews10 followers
September 24, 2017
HOT HOT HOT!

I really enjoyed Nate's story. He is such a conflicted and tormented character, but yet he is just so sexy and sweet. We get teased with a little m/m action mostly just emotional though. I am hoping to get a full m/m story in this series because I think Lane Hart would be fabulous at it!

One of the best parts about this story is Grayson. He is a super smart and quirky young man.

There is a bit of mystery here too surrounding the car crash and the things that keep happening to Nate. There is a lot going on to keep the readers interest.
4,814 reviews9 followers
October 14, 2018
So good

Oh thank goodness the author has stepped up her game and at last Ive got two characters back that I like. The last two books have been dodgy with characters hard to relate to. This was as good as books one and two. Wish authors wouldn’t build up characters for future books and then decimate them like damp squids when their story comes. That said this One was a gem and I really enjoyed it.
826 reviews8 followers
March 22, 2019
Although it probably could be read as a standalone you really shouldn't. Each book builds on the characters making the next book even more enjoyable. Nate was a different character. Quiet, unassuming, avoids the limelight and not a manwhore. How did he even get into this series? But he's a beautiful, if broken, soul and I loved how he found new hope and was so protective of Alyssa and the Little Prof. The mystery and suspense in this one added another excellent level. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Annie (annie.books.obsession).
198 reviews7 followers
February 22, 2021
Nathan unable to let go of his painful memories. He keeps to himself, refusing to let anyone else in for fear that they’ll learn the truth. Alyssa Grant is only looking for a front-page story to advance her career. Recently widowed and now raising her son on her own, she has no intentions of getting involved with a man.

Sweet, hot, funny and angsty.

Definitely a new type of hero-bisexual beautiful love story. Thank you, Lane Hart, for sharing this story with us.
134 reviews
December 19, 2016
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

****If m/m is not your thing, then this book is not for you****

Nate and Alyssa
Nate had secrets. Ones that have hurt the people he love and broken his heart. He meets a beautiful widowed single mom, Alyssa and his secrets take on a life of their own.

Alyssa thought she knew heart break when she lost her husband to a combat mission gone wrong. The father of her only child was gone. She loved her husband but once she meets Nate she knows she will never be the same.

Ante and Alyssa have issues there is no doubt about it. Once they learn the truth from each other and Alyssa finds out Nate will do anything to protect her and her son Grayson there is nothing that an stand in their way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Erin.
601 reviews16 followers
May 28, 2017
My love for these fighters just keeps growing with each of these books! I loved reading that love is love and it was accepted through all parties in this book. Nate totally won me over from the start. Oooo just the description of him.... phew. Thank you for all of these fighter stories and how great they are to fall in to.
Profile Image for Lorelei.
903 reviews4 followers
June 16, 2017
Awesome book

I haven't read a book in this series yet, that I haven't loved. Great storyline and characters. A little bit of everything in there. Some drama, heartache, laughter some steamy sex. A happy ever after. The book has it all. Can't wait to start the next one. Definitely recommending
Profile Image for Sian Bulpin.
599 reviews3 followers
August 9, 2018
So good

Nate hasn't felt attracted for a few years when someone he loved died.
Alyssa lost her husband at war.
Nate is a reluctant hero and Alyssa wants the scoop for her paper, so she asks him out.
Let the games begin.
So much in this book that I don't want to spoil it. Brilliant read.
434 reviews6 followers
August 13, 2019
Nate ❤️

OMG.OMG.OMG
So I’ve loved this entire series but this book was on a whole other level! It was very raw and emotional. There’s a pretty big twist/shock in the beginning but it’s so beautifully written that you become engrossed in the story. When I got to the epilogue, I actaully yelled at my iPad because I didn’t want to be at the end of Nate’s story!!
Profile Image for jenni Lobotomy .
10 reviews1 follower
June 12, 2020
A must read, but you have to read the first 5 to understand some of the Easter eggs!

Reading all of these books in order, this being number 6, this has been by far my favorite!!!!! It touched so many different aspects and hit so many great points I couldn't even take a break and read it faster than the first 5!!!
Profile Image for Angela Sandford.
166 reviews5 followers
March 17, 2021
Nate

Lane Hart does it again - tackling difficult storylines with empathy and acceptance. Nate had a big heart, that was unnecessarily ridden with guilt. Alyssa helped heal not only his heart, but hers too. Very impressed with how Lane Hart portrays characters and gets messages across 👍❤️❤️❤️
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