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Larson Brothers #1
Raw Deal
Savannah's brother was killed in a cage fight with Mike "Red Reaper" Larson after a savage punch to the head.
When Mike shows up at the funeral, he’s nothing like Savannah expected. Gone is the fierce, brutal beast she’s seen in the cage. In his place is a beautiful man torn with guilt, seeking forgiveness, and willing to do anything to ease her pain.
Her family doesn’t approve, but her heart doesn’t stand a chance. Irresistibly drawn together, neither of them can deny the intoxicating desire unleashed between them, turning their pain into the most exquisite pleasure.
But every time Mike steps into the cage, Savannah knows she could lose him too. She can’t go through that again, but how can she let go of the one man who sets her body and soul on fire?
When Mike shows up at the funeral, he’s nothing like Savannah expected. Gone is the fierce, brutal beast she’s seen in the cage. In his place is a beautiful man torn with guilt, seeking forgiveness, and willing to do anything to ease her pain.
Her family doesn’t approve, but her heart doesn’t stand a chance. Irresistibly drawn together, neither of them can deny the intoxicating desire unleashed between them, turning their pain into the most exquisite pleasure.
But every time Mike steps into the cage, Savannah knows she could lose him too. She can’t go through that again, but how can she let go of the one man who sets her body and soul on fire?
259 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 24, 2017
127 people are currently reading
3195 people want to read
About the author
Cherrie Lynn
20 books4,880 followersCherrie Lynn has been a CPS caseworker and a juvenile probation officer, but now that she has come to her senses, she writes contemporary and paranormal romance on the steamy side. It's *much* more fun. She's also an unabashed rock music enthusiast, and loves letting her passion for romance and metal collide on the page.
When she's not writing, you can find her reading, listening to music or playing with her favorite gadget of the moment. She's also fond of hitting the road with her husband to catch their favorite bands live.
Cherrie lives in East Texas with said husband and their two kids, all of whom are the source of much merriment, mischief and mayhem. You can reach her at cherrie@cherrielynn.com, at the various social networking sites, or right here. She loves hearing from readers!
When she's not writing, you can find her reading, listening to music or playing with her favorite gadget of the moment. She's also fond of hitting the road with her husband to catch their favorite bands live.
Cherrie lives in East Texas with said husband and their two kids, all of whom are the source of much merriment, mischief and mayhem. You can reach her at cherrie@cherrielynn.com, at the various social networking sites, or right here. She loves hearing from readers!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 283 reviews
November 12, 2021
4.75 Stars
I love this author.
I love fighter books.
And, most of all, I just LOVE romance books where you can truly FEEL the connection between the two MCs.
Mike and Savannah were absolutely electric together.
Their chemistry was truly palpable and I loved the "forbidden" nature of the start of the relationship.
Mike alone was just so fucking awesome, too.
Seriously. Book husband material. For sure.
And I didn't even want to kill the heroine most of the time.
Sometimes I wanted to punch one of the side characters in the face.
Okay, maybe more than one of them.
But then I reminded myself that they were grieving and ish so I decided to cut them some slack.
Cause even though my coal black heart felt no actual empathy...
You gotta fake it til you make it, amiright?
And we all have to have long term goals.
Goals are good.
I'll keep working on that feelings thing though.
In my spare time.
Anylies, for those of you with actual feelings that function, you will love the angsty grief vibe going on here.
Or not...like I said, my feelings barometer is busted so I'm not actually sure, I'm just making a wild ass guess.
LOLZ.
Ahem, yeah. Well, that's all I got.
I can't wait for the next book in this series, the two remaining Larson brothers seem like they will be fun, especially Damien.
I love this author.
I love fighter books.
And, most of all, I just LOVE romance books where you can truly FEEL the connection between the two MCs.
Mike and Savannah were absolutely electric together.
Their chemistry was truly palpable and I loved the "forbidden" nature of the start of the relationship.
Mike alone was just so fucking awesome, too.
Seriously. Book husband material. For sure.
And I didn't even want to kill the heroine most of the time.
Sometimes I wanted to punch one of the side characters in the face.
Okay, maybe more than one of them.
But then I reminded myself that they were grieving and ish so I decided to cut them some slack.
Cause even though my coal black heart felt no actual empathy...
You gotta fake it til you make it, amiright?
And we all have to have long term goals.
Goals are good.
I'll keep working on that feelings thing though.
In my spare time.
Anylies, for those of you with actual feelings that function, you will love the angsty grief vibe going on here.
Or not...like I said, my feelings barometer is busted so I'm not actually sure, I'm just making a wild ass guess.
LOLZ.
Ahem, yeah. Well, that's all I got.
I can't wait for the next book in this series, the two remaining Larson brothers seem like they will be fun, especially Damien.
February 7, 2017
5 STARS
Do you see that pathetic pile of emotional goo sitting there on the couch with her box of tissues and sniffling into her Ben & Jerry's? Ignore her. She's still trying to calm her tits after having her heart put through an emotional wringer that was this book. No really. She normally doesn't cry though almost an entire book, and she definitely doesn't refer to herself in the third person. So you know when all of this does happen, it's definitely an unforgettable 5 star read. I'm talking have your tissues ready and prepare to have your hearts squeezed in a vice sort of read.
What would you do if the man that may just be responsible for the single most devastating loss in your life is also the man that captures your heart and soul?
Losing her older brother is hard enough. Having to witness the blow to the head inside the MMA cage that caused his death is unforgettable. Savannah is the strongest link left in her family. Attempting to get through her own grief while consoling her parents and widowed sister in law is hard enough. But when the man that went head to head with Tommy in the fight that cost him his life shows up at the funeral, the last thing she expects is for him to enrapture her so thoroughly.
Mike Larson is the oldest of three brothers. Growing up hard, he's made many sacrifices to support his brothers. He's never hesitated to use his fists, after all, he's made a successful career at it. Knowing that he's responsible for a man's death, no matter if it was a tragic accident, doesn't ease his mind or heart. He's haunted by his guilt and nothing will ease it unless he can make things right with the man's family. Falling for his younger sister wasn't in the plans, but their connection is simply inevitable.
Mike is a man wrecked by guilt and sorrow. He's had a hard life, but nothing has been harder than living with the knowledge that it was his hit that cost a man's life. He knows that falling for the guy's sister is wrong, but he can't stay away from her.
I cannot explain to you all just how much I adored Mike Larson. This is a man that is all alpha, but at his core he's sweet, understanding, and as tender as he is devastatingly sexy.
This story was filled with so much emotion, it was impossible to read it with a dry eye. The connection between him and Savannah was incredible and undeniable. It was sizzling. It was utterly mesmerizing.
Savannah is woman that struggles with her own guilt. She knows her family and her sister in law will never accept her relationship, but she also sees a side of Mike that she knows not many have. The sweet and caring side. The side that will move mountains for the people he loves. A man that will do everything and anything at the drop of a hat just to be there for her and to make her smile.
Raw Deal is aptly titled because it certainly left me feeling raw. Raw with so much feeling, my heart near burst at the overwhelming emotion of it all. It was beautifully written, gripping, and poignant. It was a painful sort of beauty. A phenomenal story of love in the unlikeliest of places.
Of course it had Cherrie's signature punch to the ovaries....
I adored everything about this book. EVERYTHING. I think I was sniffling though the entire thing. I couldn't stop. I'm beyond excited for this brand new series from one of my favorite authors. And if this book is anything to go by, I already know the other two Larson brothers will be well worth the wait. A rockstar and a poker king? Bring. It. On.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
We have to take solace wherever we can find it, he'd said, and somehow, by some divine intervention or alignment of the stars or whatever the hell else determined their destinies...he was her solace.
Do you see that pathetic pile of emotional goo sitting there on the couch with her box of tissues and sniffling into her Ben & Jerry's? Ignore her. She's still trying to calm her tits after having her heart put through an emotional wringer that was this book. No really. She normally doesn't cry though almost an entire book, and she definitely doesn't refer to herself in the third person. So you know when all of this does happen, it's definitely an unforgettable 5 star read. I'm talking have your tissues ready and prepare to have your hearts squeezed in a vice sort of read.
What would you do if the man that may just be responsible for the single most devastating loss in your life is also the man that captures your heart and soul?
Losing her older brother is hard enough. Having to witness the blow to the head inside the MMA cage that caused his death is unforgettable. Savannah is the strongest link left in her family. Attempting to get through her own grief while consoling her parents and widowed sister in law is hard enough. But when the man that went head to head with Tommy in the fight that cost him his life shows up at the funeral, the last thing she expects is for him to enrapture her so thoroughly.
Mike Larson is the oldest of three brothers. Growing up hard, he's made many sacrifices to support his brothers. He's never hesitated to use his fists, after all, he's made a successful career at it. Knowing that he's responsible for a man's death, no matter if it was a tragic accident, doesn't ease his mind or heart. He's haunted by his guilt and nothing will ease it unless he can make things right with the man's family. Falling for his younger sister wasn't in the plans, but their connection is simply inevitable.
Mike is a man wrecked by guilt and sorrow. He's had a hard life, but nothing has been harder than living with the knowledge that it was his hit that cost a man's life. He knows that falling for the guy's sister is wrong, but he can't stay away from her.
I cannot explain to you all just how much I adored Mike Larson. This is a man that is all alpha, but at his core he's sweet, understanding, and as tender as he is devastatingly sexy.
This story was filled with so much emotion, it was impossible to read it with a dry eye. The connection between him and Savannah was incredible and undeniable. It was sizzling. It was utterly mesmerizing.
Savannah is woman that struggles with her own guilt. She knows her family and her sister in law will never accept her relationship, but she also sees a side of Mike that she knows not many have. The sweet and caring side. The side that will move mountains for the people he loves. A man that will do everything and anything at the drop of a hat just to be there for her and to make her smile.
Raw Deal is aptly titled because it certainly left me feeling raw. Raw with so much feeling, my heart near burst at the overwhelming emotion of it all. It was beautifully written, gripping, and poignant. It was a painful sort of beauty. A phenomenal story of love in the unlikeliest of places.
Of course it had Cherrie's signature punch to the ovaries....
I adored everything about this book. EVERYTHING. I think I was sniffling though the entire thing. I couldn't stop. I'm beyond excited for this brand new series from one of my favorite authors. And if this book is anything to go by, I already know the other two Larson brothers will be well worth the wait. A rockstar and a poker king? Bring. It. On.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
August 4, 2020
3 Stars
I read the blurb, my hand paused over the mouse, my index finger (with a mind of its own) practically glued to the left button of the mouse annnnd...
I had to have this book. Ever since reading Real, I've had a soft spot for fighters. You know, guys with a hot, ripped body who can, with one glance, cause a woman to go weak at the knees?
But all jokes aside, this book was good, real good, especially the first half. It has a unique storyline and a very difficult subject matter. Nothing more delicious than a complicated, fucked-up, forbidden relationship. The hero was yummy. The heroine was a bit annoying but likable overall, considering what she was going through. Secondary characters? Okay. Although, on second thought, her sister-in-law was irritating as hell. Not because of her pain and grief (I actually loved her in those moments), it's the other small things that grated on my nerves.
I had a couple of issues with the book, though:
All in all, an enjoyable read if you like hot, tortured heroes and forbidden love stories.
QUICK REVIEW:
Enjoyment: 3/5
Writing style: 4/5
Storyline: 4/5
Hero: 4/5
Heroine: 3/5
Secondary characters: 3/5
Hotness/chemistry: 3/5
Romance: 3/5
Angst: 4/5
Darkness level: 3/5
Humor: 2/5
Depth of the book: 4/5
POV: dual, 3rd person
Triggers:
I read the blurb, my hand paused over the mouse, my index finger (with a mind of its own) practically glued to the left button of the mouse annnnd...
I had to have this book. Ever since reading Real, I've had a soft spot for fighters. You know, guys with a hot, ripped body who can, with one glance, cause a woman to go weak at the knees?
But all jokes aside, this book was good, real good, especially the first half. It has a unique storyline and a very difficult subject matter. Nothing more delicious than a complicated, fucked-up, forbidden relationship. The hero was yummy. The heroine was a bit annoying but likable overall, considering what she was going through. Secondary characters? Okay. Although, on second thought, her sister-in-law was irritating as hell. Not because of her pain and grief (I actually loved her in those moments), it's the other small things that grated on my nerves.
I had a couple of issues with the book, though:
All in all, an enjoyable read if you like hot, tortured heroes and forbidden love stories.
QUICK REVIEW:
Enjoyment: 3/5
Writing style: 4/5
Storyline: 4/5
Hero: 4/5
Heroine: 3/5
Secondary characters: 3/5
Hotness/chemistry: 3/5
Romance: 3/5
Angst: 4/5
Darkness level: 3/5
Humor: 2/5
Depth of the book: 4/5
POV: dual, 3rd person
Triggers:
February 7, 2017
Title: Raw Deal
Series: Larson Brothers #1
Author: Cherrie Lynn
Release date: January 24, 2017
Cliffhanger: No
HEA
Mike and Savannah had the type of forbidden romance that brings on some exquisite angst. The FEELS, guys! This is what I'm always searching for in my hunt for a good romance. I want to be swept away and overwhelmed with the raw emotion and need that these characters have. And let me tell you, they had it in spades. I love how untraditional this story was. The plot was a brave one to tackle, and Ms. Lynn pulled it off with flying colors. There are so many ways you could get a story like this wrong, but I'm happy to report that I was one very satisfied customer. This couple brought together by a horrible tragedy, found something infinitely precious at the most unlikely time. Their ability to see past their circumstances into the heart of each other was breathtaking.
How do you look in the eyes of the man who took your brother from you without hate? Savannah does exactly that.
In the brutal world of MMA, you know a blood bath is likely, but you never think your loved ones will leave you so suddenly. This has now become Savannah's reality. On the day of her brother Tommy's funeral, Mike Larson was the last person she was expecting to see. What was even more surprising was the fact that his savage public persona didn't match up with this humble man in front of her. Wracked with guilt and looking for absolution, he would give anything to make things better for her family. Predictably, she is torn right from the start, wondering if she should even give him the time of day. But there was a genuine ring to his words and actions-and no hope of forgetting him.
She wanted to talk to him because, despite all of her internal protests, he’d been a comfort to her. His words, his voice, especially the way he’d held her hand as they parted ways. The hand that had beaten her brother to death had held hers as if it were something precious.
Mike was a man who lives and breathes to protect his brothers, and fighting was his way out of the poor childhood handed to them. Poverty and a druggie mother brought dangerous people in their lives and he became their only protection. Fighting was his ultimate salvation, but now it brought nothing but pain. All he could see was the face of the man whose life he unintentionally took. People fear him now more than ever, but the one woman who showed him compassion and generosity left him in the most turmoil.
If he wanted to be perfectly honest with himself, some of his sleepless nights had been more about hoping she was all right and wondering if he would ever hear that voice again than any personal torment he was experiencing.
Make no mistake. You will fall for Mike's protectiveness and sweet side, but he is not a soft man. He's dominant to the core and still more than a little uncivilized. Just a warning: do not read this thing in public because when the sexual tension between these two combust, you will too. For obvious reasons, they fought the hard fight to resist their developing attraction. The public, her family would never condone it or forgive her. They both struggled with the morality of it all, but in the end it could only be suppressed for so long.
When we’re skin to skin, she thought, he’ll incinerate me. God help her, she wanted to burn. Burn until there was nothing left of her heart and mind but ashes, no room to think, no time to second-guess.
I loved the complexity of their relationship. The idea of finding love from the source of such pain was truly a beautiful story to watch unfold. These characters handled all conflict with maturity and grace-it was so utterly refreshing. The hurdles they had to overcome were insurmountable, but I had every faith they had what it took to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Passion, tenderness, and devotional love. That is what you will find in Raw Deal. Get in on this new series from the start. There are more Larson brothers to come and I'm already eager to see where this author leads them. Sign me up right now, I'm ready.
“You have me.”
“Forever?”
“As long as there’s breath in my body, darlin’. And beyond.”
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February 21, 2017
4 - "Just keep holding me..." Stars!
Raw Deal marks the beginning of Cherrie Lynn’s new Larson Brothers Series, and if Mike Larson’s story is a taste of things to come, her readers are in for a treat.
It has been a while since I have read a book by this author, and I forgot just how agreeable her writing is, from the story-line in general to the characters involved, there wasn’t one bit of this book I didn’t enjoy.
"You want to be with a fighter, you gotta learn how to fight."
Falling for the guy who kills your brother, albeit accidentally in the ring, comes with a whole host of complications, including the obvious familial anger and disbelief, to the internal guilt over the loss of your sibling, and the feelings you have for the person who took him away growing into something you never expected.
He was supposed to be a monster, or at least her family thought so. He wasn’t supposed to be the knight…
Although to be honest Savannah never really stood a chance, Mike was an absolute sweetheart from their first meeting, and it doesn’t take long for her to realize that the perceived cold-hearted blue-eyed fighter, actually doesn’t have a heart of stone, and is dealing with some hefty feelings of guilt himself, so its no surprise that their friendly relationship takes a turn into romance pretty quickly.
"You caught me from the moment I first saw you. I thought about you from that day on."
The second half of the book pretty much played out as I was expecting it to, but that isn’t a bad thing, and one thing that made me really happy is although the subject matter contained and the tropes used in the story were pretty heavy with drama and angst, the author didn’t overplay it, and nothing was overly dragged out either which kept the flow of the plot moving along at a great pace.
"Words hit harder than fists ever will."
I hope we don’t have to wait too long for Damien and Zane Larson to have their stories told, the professional gambler and the rock star were certainly set up really well in this book, in that although they were introduced, you are left wondering exactly what is going on with them at the same time.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was a pleasure to provide the above honest review.
**Review also appears on Straight Shootin' Book Reviews - https://straightshootinbookreviews.com/
Raw Deal marks the beginning of Cherrie Lynn’s new Larson Brothers Series, and if Mike Larson’s story is a taste of things to come, her readers are in for a treat.
It has been a while since I have read a book by this author, and I forgot just how agreeable her writing is, from the story-line in general to the characters involved, there wasn’t one bit of this book I didn’t enjoy.
"You want to be with a fighter, you gotta learn how to fight."
Falling for the guy who kills your brother, albeit accidentally in the ring, comes with a whole host of complications, including the obvious familial anger and disbelief, to the internal guilt over the loss of your sibling, and the feelings you have for the person who took him away growing into something you never expected.
He was supposed to be a monster, or at least her family thought so. He wasn’t supposed to be the knight…
Although to be honest Savannah never really stood a chance, Mike was an absolute sweetheart from their first meeting, and it doesn’t take long for her to realize that the perceived cold-hearted blue-eyed fighter, actually doesn’t have a heart of stone, and is dealing with some hefty feelings of guilt himself, so its no surprise that their friendly relationship takes a turn into romance pretty quickly.
"You caught me from the moment I first saw you. I thought about you from that day on."
The second half of the book pretty much played out as I was expecting it to, but that isn’t a bad thing, and one thing that made me really happy is although the subject matter contained and the tropes used in the story were pretty heavy with drama and angst, the author didn’t overplay it, and nothing was overly dragged out either which kept the flow of the plot moving along at a great pace.
"Words hit harder than fists ever will."
I hope we don’t have to wait too long for Damien and Zane Larson to have their stories told, the professional gambler and the rock star were certainly set up really well in this book, in that although they were introduced, you are left wondering exactly what is going on with them at the same time.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was a pleasure to provide the above honest review.
**Review also appears on Straight Shootin' Book Reviews - https://straightshootinbookreviews.com/
January 2, 2017
4.5 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)
Savannah Dugas is a 27 yr. old woman who lives in the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana. Her whole family is devastated when her big brother Tommy is suddenly killed in a cage fight after a punch to the head. As a competitive MMA fighter, Tommy trained for the fight that could make his career, but instead it ended his life & left his wife a widow.
Michael Larson is an MMA fighter from Houston, Texas. He's worked hard to make a name for himself in the MMA cage. Fighting had been his salvation & his sanctuary. It had saved him years ago and now it felt like his damnation & his own personal hell after his recent opponent died in the ring because of him. Mike feels responsible for destroying the Dugas family & wants to ease their pain. He's so sorry & vows to himself to somehow make things right. He decides to attend the funeral & pay his respects.
Savannah is stunned to see Mike Larson at her brother's funeral. He looks so broken, she agrees to speak with him. She can tell he's seeking forgiveness & desperate to make things better. Mike is nothing like Savannah expected him to be. He has this tough persona on T.V., but in person he's kind and sincere. She has trouble dealing with her grief & anger, and facing the man that is the source of her pain.
Mike continues to reach out to Savannah. He's so torn up about what happened with Tommy, and she was the only one willing to listen to him & hear him out. Savannah finds herself drawn to Mike. She knows it's probably wrong & her family wouldn't approve, but he's there for her. He becomes her safe place & where she finds comfort. Over time she can't fight the way her body craves him or how her heart beats only for him. He becomes her solace & helps her heal with his love.
-She'd never felt so deliciously weak, so shaken to her core from a kiss.
-He possessed her. Fingers in her hair, holding her fast while his mouth devoured hers.
-"I want this."
-"I want you."
Mike's thought about retiring, but fighting has always been everything he's about. How do you give up the one thing that makes you who you are. The thing that keeps you sane. Can Savannah be with Mike if he decides to keep fighting? She's scared of losing him the way she lost her brother. Can she risk going through that kind of loss again?
I really loved this book! It was so damn hot! I adored Mike & I can't wait for the other Larson brother's books! I'm dying for rock star Zane Larson's book! I need more of these delicious brothers!
-It was everything. Everything she'd been looking for.
-She'd been in the arms of the man the world thought she should hate. But she loved him.
(ARC provided by author)
Savannah Dugas is a 27 yr. old woman who lives in the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana. Her whole family is devastated when her big brother Tommy is suddenly killed in a cage fight after a punch to the head. As a competitive MMA fighter, Tommy trained for the fight that could make his career, but instead it ended his life & left his wife a widow.
Michael Larson is an MMA fighter from Houston, Texas. He's worked hard to make a name for himself in the MMA cage. Fighting had been his salvation & his sanctuary. It had saved him years ago and now it felt like his damnation & his own personal hell after his recent opponent died in the ring because of him. Mike feels responsible for destroying the Dugas family & wants to ease their pain. He's so sorry & vows to himself to somehow make things right. He decides to attend the funeral & pay his respects.
Savannah is stunned to see Mike Larson at her brother's funeral. He looks so broken, she agrees to speak with him. She can tell he's seeking forgiveness & desperate to make things better. Mike is nothing like Savannah expected him to be. He has this tough persona on T.V., but in person he's kind and sincere. She has trouble dealing with her grief & anger, and facing the man that is the source of her pain.
Mike continues to reach out to Savannah. He's so torn up about what happened with Tommy, and she was the only one willing to listen to him & hear him out. Savannah finds herself drawn to Mike. She knows it's probably wrong & her family wouldn't approve, but he's there for her. He becomes her safe place & where she finds comfort. Over time she can't fight the way her body craves him or how her heart beats only for him. He becomes her solace & helps her heal with his love.
-She'd never felt so deliciously weak, so shaken to her core from a kiss.
-He possessed her. Fingers in her hair, holding her fast while his mouth devoured hers.
-"I want this."
-"I want you."
Mike's thought about retiring, but fighting has always been everything he's about. How do you give up the one thing that makes you who you are. The thing that keeps you sane. Can Savannah be with Mike if he decides to keep fighting? She's scared of losing him the way she lost her brother. Can she risk going through that kind of loss again?
I really loved this book! It was so damn hot! I adored Mike & I can't wait for the other Larson brother's books! I'm dying for rock star Zane Larson's book! I need more of these delicious brothers!
-It was everything. Everything she'd been looking for.
-She'd been in the arms of the man the world thought she should hate. But she loved him.
February 7, 2017
Michael Larson is a MMA fighter whose making a big name for himself in the sport. But getting in that cage comes with a lot of responsibilities, some of which are life changing. He learns this the hard way when a fight leads to the death of his opponent.
Savannah was always scared when her brother got into the ring and ended up bloody. But she never expected there would be a time that his fight would end in his death. Struggling to deal with losing her brother, while trying to hold it together for her parents and sister-in-law, she quickly finds herself in need of a friend. Enter Mike, whose racked with guilt and looking for a way to make amends with the family of the man whose death he feels responsible for. The two are the most unlikely of friends but together they start to heal and they can't deny the feelings that develop between them.
I really enjoyed getting to know more about these two broken characters who were both trying their hardest to heal. Their story was certainly not an easy one since they both had a lot of healing to do, but it was an engaging one.
I did have some issues feeling the connection between Mike and Savannah at times, but by the end I could see that they were the perfect couple. Savannah's family had a hard time accepting that she would want to be with Mike and it added a good amount of angst and intrigue. I liked that it wasn't an easy relationship between them because we got to see them work through their issues.
Overall, this is definitely a story I would recommend if you were looking for a sweet, yet heartbreaking, story of love and acceptance. The author also did a really good job of leaving you wanting more of secondary characters so I can't wait for more from this series and I can already tell the next is going to be a good one.
Read an excerpt HERE.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Savannah was always scared when her brother got into the ring and ended up bloody. But she never expected there would be a time that his fight would end in his death. Struggling to deal with losing her brother, while trying to hold it together for her parents and sister-in-law, she quickly finds herself in need of a friend. Enter Mike, whose racked with guilt and looking for a way to make amends with the family of the man whose death he feels responsible for. The two are the most unlikely of friends but together they start to heal and they can't deny the feelings that develop between them.
I really enjoyed getting to know more about these two broken characters who were both trying their hardest to heal. Their story was certainly not an easy one since they both had a lot of healing to do, but it was an engaging one.
I did have some issues feeling the connection between Mike and Savannah at times, but by the end I could see that they were the perfect couple. Savannah's family had a hard time accepting that she would want to be with Mike and it added a good amount of angst and intrigue. I liked that it wasn't an easy relationship between them because we got to see them work through their issues.
Overall, this is definitely a story I would recommend if you were looking for a sweet, yet heartbreaking, story of love and acceptance. The author also did a really good job of leaving you wanting more of secondary characters so I can't wait for more from this series and I can already tell the next is going to be a good one.
Read an excerpt HERE.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
February 7, 2017
One of the reasons why I love to read romance, apart from the HEA, is the myriad of conflicts our hero and heroine goes through before they find their happily ever after.
For Raw Deal, the conflict is revealed from the get go: would you trust yourself to fall for the one who accidentally killed your brother in the ring?
Savannah never thought love would find her a stone throws away from where her brother is buried and with the person who had put him there. There are so many reasons to say no to Mike Larson, but as they say, the heart want what it wants.
I loved the conflict in this book. It's a clear conflict of the heart. There are no clear bad guys here. Not Savannah's parents who are, understandably upset that their daughter fell in love with the man who caused their son's death. Not Tommy's (Savannah's brother) widow who is left without a husband. And I liked that.
Despite the abrupt ending, I love the intensity of emotions felt by both Mike and Savannah, not just towards each other but towards their own family. I would have loved to see more interaction between Savannah and her own family. But I have a feeling we'll meet them soon...in the next book particularly.
Aside from Savannah's family, I'm definitely looking forward to get to know Mike's brothers more. I liked that they're in this book and we're introduced to them. It only whetted my appetite for more.
ARC provided by the publisher
For Raw Deal, the conflict is revealed from the get go: would you trust yourself to fall for the one who accidentally killed your brother in the ring?
Savannah never thought love would find her a stone throws away from where her brother is buried and with the person who had put him there. There are so many reasons to say no to Mike Larson, but as they say, the heart want what it wants.
I loved the conflict in this book. It's a clear conflict of the heart. There are no clear bad guys here. Not Savannah's parents who are, understandably upset that their daughter fell in love with the man who caused their son's death. Not Tommy's (Savannah's brother) widow who is left without a husband. And I liked that.
Despite the abrupt ending, I love the intensity of emotions felt by both Mike and Savannah, not just towards each other but towards their own family. I would have loved to see more interaction between Savannah and her own family. But I have a feeling we'll meet them soon...in the next book particularly.
Aside from Savannah's family, I'm definitely looking forward to get to know Mike's brothers more. I liked that they're in this book and we're introduced to them. It only whetted my appetite for more.
ARC provided by the publisher
October 15, 2017
2.5 Meh
My luck just doesn't seem to get any better!
This is yet another book that started out pretty decent then it started to drag and it slowly became boring.
My luck just doesn't seem to get any better!
This is yet another book that started out pretty decent then it started to drag and it slowly became boring.
February 7, 2017
I was going to give this 4 stars, just for the different start of the relationship and the story. But then the little bitch fairy took down a star for the cliché ending.
The blurb covers almost all of the story. I love fighter books! And this book was a good one overall. But ... I think author tried to swallow more than she could chew with the whole death between them concept. There were abrupt feelies and trying to convince the reader by words situation. I just didn't believe some of the emotional drama.
The blurb covers almost all of the story. I love fighter books! And this book was a good one overall. But ... I think author tried to swallow more than she could chew with the whole death between them concept. There were abrupt feelies and trying to convince the reader by words situation. I just didn't believe some of the emotional drama.
February 6, 2017
Years ago I read some of Cherrie Lynn's Ross Siblings books and I really enjoyed them so when I saw she has a new series coming out I was eager to try it. This book worked pretty well for me. I love the set-up - Savannah's brother is a well-known MMA Cage fighter who dies by an accidental punch to the head by his opponent. Savannah and her entire family are devastated. Mike Larson, the fighter who accidentally killed him, is guilt-ridden and upset it happened. But it was truly an accident.
Mike feels like he needs to reach out to the family and to say something, anything, to let them know how sorry he is. He knows the funeral isn't the best venue for this, but he finds himself there anyway, watching the service from afar. After a while, he sees two women break off from the service, and he decides to approach them.
Savannah takes her sister in-law, who just lost her husband, aside at the funeral to give her some air. Savannah is shocked to see Mike approach them. He says kind words and she feels a connection to him, even though she doesn't know how to handle her emotions when faced with the man who threw the punch that killed her brother. He gives her his phone number and tells her to he would love to get together and talk. After some internal conflict, she agrees and they have coffee. Even though she tries to ignore it, they have an energized chemistry, and she finds herself in his company more and more.
For the drama that surrounds the circumstances of Savannah and Mike meeting, their relationship and courtship is relatively drama-free. Savannah isn't completely upfront with her family about the fact she is seeing Mike and spending the night with Mike, but that is a secret that needs to be kept for a while as her family is grieving. It's a mature relationship - Mike takes full responsibility for his actions. He understands Savannah's grief and never pushes her or rushes her. He has a sexy, alpha vibe - but he is also super sweet and kind. I liked the combination.
Mike hasn't had the easiest childhood, and he is able to talk through it with Savannah. He has a famous brother in a rock band, and a brother who is a poker professional. Looking forward to getting to know both better.
I did think the story slows down a bit in the middle. I like the author takes her time in letting Mike and Savannah get to know one another, but it lagged a little bit for me. But things happen towards the end and it really picks up. This book is also super sexy - Cherrie Lynn does a smex scene very well.
Overall, I enjoyed these two.
Grade: B
Mike feels like he needs to reach out to the family and to say something, anything, to let them know how sorry he is. He knows the funeral isn't the best venue for this, but he finds himself there anyway, watching the service from afar. After a while, he sees two women break off from the service, and he decides to approach them.
Savannah takes her sister in-law, who just lost her husband, aside at the funeral to give her some air. Savannah is shocked to see Mike approach them. He says kind words and she feels a connection to him, even though she doesn't know how to handle her emotions when faced with the man who threw the punch that killed her brother. He gives her his phone number and tells her to he would love to get together and talk. After some internal conflict, she agrees and they have coffee. Even though she tries to ignore it, they have an energized chemistry, and she finds herself in his company more and more.
For the drama that surrounds the circumstances of Savannah and Mike meeting, their relationship and courtship is relatively drama-free. Savannah isn't completely upfront with her family about the fact she is seeing Mike and spending the night with Mike, but that is a secret that needs to be kept for a while as her family is grieving. It's a mature relationship - Mike takes full responsibility for his actions. He understands Savannah's grief and never pushes her or rushes her. He has a sexy, alpha vibe - but he is also super sweet and kind. I liked the combination.
Mike hasn't had the easiest childhood, and he is able to talk through it with Savannah. He has a famous brother in a rock band, and a brother who is a poker professional. Looking forward to getting to know both better.
I did think the story slows down a bit in the middle. I like the author takes her time in letting Mike and Savannah get to know one another, but it lagged a little bit for me. But things happen towards the end and it really picks up. This book is also super sexy - Cherrie Lynn does a smex scene very well.
Overall, I enjoyed these two.
Grade: B
February 7, 2017
‘Hard to believe a hand that touched her so gently could ever hurt anyone.’
Mike Larson has a story behind him and it’s one of sadness and grave responsibility. He’s a force to be reckoned with, but his heart is caring and he loves fiercely. All he wants is to protect those he cares about, those he loves. Savannah’s heart wants what it wants but her conscience questions it every step of the way until the only voice she can hear is the beat of her heart.
We haven’t read an MMA fighter romance in a while but can’t help think that this is one of our favourites. Why? Because we felt like we were in the audience, we tasted and smelt the blood, sweat and heightened adrenaline. We saw it and we believed it. Not only that, we felt the guilt and the grief; the confusion and the rejection. We understood it, yet we fought against it alongside our heroine. This, at the same time as feeling protective of our hero despite what transpired at his hands. We loved Savannah and Mike’s story. There was something sweet and innocent about it whilst at the same time it was steamy with a dash of angst and aggression.
“But I do want you to be real.”
“This is…real as it gets, darlin’.”
“You’re nothing like I expected you to be. I only saw how you were with your opponents…”
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March 27, 2017
I was afraid this was going to be a real tear jerker. But, in spite of the sad circumstances of their meeting, this romance felt relatively low angst and low drama. Just the way I like them.
I enjoyed reading Michael and Savannah's story and I'm looking forward to seeing his brothers, Zane and Damien, find their true loves as well.
I enjoyed reading Michael and Savannah's story and I'm looking forward to seeing his brothers, Zane and Damien, find their true loves as well.
February 6, 2017
4 stars
I think that this is my first Cherrie Lynn book, and I am definitely impressed. For starters, I loved the entire premise of the book.
The book begins with the funeral of Tommy, an MMA fighter who died due to a brain hemorrhage when he incurred an unfortunately fatal punch to the head during one of the matches.
That is when we meet three of our protagonists (well technically four, but whatever)- Savannah (Tommy's sister), Rowan (Tommy's pregnant widow), and Mike "The Red Reaper" Larson (the man who delivered the deadly punch).
It's pretty obvious from the very beginning that Mike is pretty torn up about the whole "his punch killed someone" thing. In an attempt to gain redemption, he goes to the Dougas family, and offers to help Savannah and Rowen in any way he can. Only little hiccup in his plan was the fact that he is attracted to Savannah. And she returns his feelings.
I totally mirrored Savannah's sentiments-"different circumstances, different time."
I mean no offense, but her brother did died just weeks ago, and a relationship built to mask her grief doesn't seem very healthy at all. Plus there was the feeling I couldn't shake that the entire relationship on Mike's part had stemmed more of guilt than attraction.
But you do you girl. And that is the only complaint I had.
I loved Mike as a person. He was tormented- sure, but he never let his fears and ill-experiences stop him from doing something. He made a mistake, and was ready to pay for it however he could, and made no excuses for himself. Now that is the kind of hero I really like. And Savannah was a very strong heroine too, she wasn't whiny, too demanding (ok maybe she was a little, but given the circumstances I am ready to excuse her). She owned up to her shit, and showed so much character when she fell in love with the man who in one way or the other was "responsible" for her brother's death.
The story in whole was very well narrated. It was told from a 3rd person dual POV, so we get to see more of the key happenings instead of long and lengthy monologues (which is the one part I despise about 1st person POVs). Plus it kept a healthy pace- not too fast, and not too slow.
Despite of the short amount of time of their relationship, I loved how far both of them came and grew as characters a reader could care about. And that ending fight was just beautiful. Not because it was two guys throwing punches, but because at times I felt like I was there right beside Savannah watching the entire thing go down.
That says a lot about the author's writing skill, which was very impressive. I definitely can't wait to see Rowan and Zane's book, because something tells me that's next and it's going to be explosive.
I think that this is my first Cherrie Lynn book, and I am definitely impressed. For starters, I loved the entire premise of the book.
The book begins with the funeral of Tommy, an MMA fighter who died due to a brain hemorrhage when he incurred an unfortunately fatal punch to the head during one of the matches.
That is when we meet three of our protagonists (well technically four, but whatever)- Savannah (Tommy's sister), Rowan (Tommy's pregnant widow), and Mike "The Red Reaper" Larson (the man who delivered the deadly punch).
It's pretty obvious from the very beginning that Mike is pretty torn up about the whole "his punch killed someone" thing. In an attempt to gain redemption, he goes to the Dougas family, and offers to help Savannah and Rowen in any way he can. Only little hiccup in his plan was the fact that he is attracted to Savannah. And she returns his feelings.
I totally mirrored Savannah's sentiments-"different circumstances, different time."
I mean no offense, but her brother did died just weeks ago, and a relationship built to mask her grief doesn't seem very healthy at all. Plus there was the feeling I couldn't shake that the entire relationship on Mike's part had stemmed more of guilt than attraction.
But you do you girl. And that is the only complaint I had.
I loved Mike as a person. He was tormented- sure, but he never let his fears and ill-experiences stop him from doing something. He made a mistake, and was ready to pay for it however he could, and made no excuses for himself. Now that is the kind of hero I really like. And Savannah was a very strong heroine too, she wasn't whiny, too demanding (ok maybe she was a little, but given the circumstances I am ready to excuse her). She owned up to her shit, and showed so much character when she fell in love with the man who in one way or the other was "responsible" for her brother's death.
The story in whole was very well narrated. It was told from a 3rd person dual POV, so we get to see more of the key happenings instead of long and lengthy monologues (which is the one part I despise about 1st person POVs). Plus it kept a healthy pace- not too fast, and not too slow.
Despite of the short amount of time of their relationship, I loved how far both of them came and grew as characters a reader could care about. And that ending fight was just beautiful. Not because it was two guys throwing punches, but because at times I felt like I was there right beside Savannah watching the entire thing go down.
That says a lot about the author's writing skill, which was very impressive. I definitely can't wait to see Rowan and Zane's book, because something tells me that's next and it's going to be explosive.
"Stalking over to her, he grabbed her left hand and showed her the little tattoo on her ring finger. “Found it.”
Her streaming eyes were furious and her mascara had smudged around them, making her look half crazed too. “When?”
“This morning.”
“You didn’t say anything.”
“Considering what you told me about it. That it was there for the man you’re going to marry. Where did you really see us going, Savannah?”"
February 11, 2017
I was scrolling through Facebook and saw an announcement about this book. I had no idea that Cherrie Lynn had a new series being released or that her latest was live. Needless to say - I immediately one-clicked and started reading.
Raw Deal is the first in the Larson Brother's Series and focuses on the story of Savannah and Mike. Their paths cross when Savannah's brother is dealt a fatal blow during a MMA match by Mike. When guilt begins to eat away at Mike, he shows at the funeral service but isn't able to quite make his way to join the family to offer his respect. Certain that they blame him, Mike's ready to take whatever they have to lie at his feet in an attempt to absolve him. But just as he has decided that it would be better not to go to them at that exact moment, he spots her. Savannah.
Savannah knows no one will understand the draw she feels to the man that her family blames for their loss, but a few moments with Mike and she can't help but feel the connection they share. As she balances her grief, her family's grief and her new found feelings; she falls deeper into the rabbit hole and slips into love with Mike. But Mike represents everything that scares her. After losing her brother while he was fighting, the idea of loving a man who also loves the sport that took her brother has Savannah running for the hills.
Savannah has two choices. She can run towards the man or away from him. She knows what choice she wants to make, but she isn't sure she'll survive it.
Beyond the steamy romance that is shared between these two characters, what I loved the most was the story. The idea that two people meet under the worst of circumstances and still fall in love. The struggle over the guilt and coming to terms with the events. Forgiving someone for an accident and being able to see beyond how they came into your life.
Mike Larson is that broken Hero, the one that struggled all his life - is doing the one thing he's good at, but underneath all that hardness is a giant softy. A boy who became a man far too young, having to care for his brothers and his mother - being forced to be the caretaker and never really looking after himself. Savannah is his slice of heaven. The reward for all his struggles. The woman that lets him see he's worthy of more.
We also get a glimpse into the other two brothers who get more than a few cameos in the book, ensuring that you'll be craving their books.
Raw Deal is the first in the Larson Brother's Series and focuses on the story of Savannah and Mike. Their paths cross when Savannah's brother is dealt a fatal blow during a MMA match by Mike. When guilt begins to eat away at Mike, he shows at the funeral service but isn't able to quite make his way to join the family to offer his respect. Certain that they blame him, Mike's ready to take whatever they have to lie at his feet in an attempt to absolve him. But just as he has decided that it would be better not to go to them at that exact moment, he spots her. Savannah.
Savannah knows no one will understand the draw she feels to the man that her family blames for their loss, but a few moments with Mike and she can't help but feel the connection they share. As she balances her grief, her family's grief and her new found feelings; she falls deeper into the rabbit hole and slips into love with Mike. But Mike represents everything that scares her. After losing her brother while he was fighting, the idea of loving a man who also loves the sport that took her brother has Savannah running for the hills.
Savannah has two choices. She can run towards the man or away from him. She knows what choice she wants to make, but she isn't sure she'll survive it.
Beyond the steamy romance that is shared between these two characters, what I loved the most was the story. The idea that two people meet under the worst of circumstances and still fall in love. The struggle over the guilt and coming to terms with the events. Forgiving someone for an accident and being able to see beyond how they came into your life.
Mike Larson is that broken Hero, the one that struggled all his life - is doing the one thing he's good at, but underneath all that hardness is a giant softy. A boy who became a man far too young, having to care for his brothers and his mother - being forced to be the caretaker and never really looking after himself. Savannah is his slice of heaven. The reward for all his struggles. The woman that lets him see he's worthy of more.
We also get a glimpse into the other two brothers who get more than a few cameos in the book, ensuring that you'll be craving their books.
February 7, 2017
My opinion seems to be a lot different than most when it comes to this book. I liked it, I did. I just didn't love it. This is the first book that I have read by Cherrie and her writing is impeccable. I was quite impressed. However, the story itself just didn't interest me and that is no one's fault but my own.
I do enjoy my sport romances, preferably Hockey, because I am Canadian and that sport is engraved in all of us at birth. MMA fighting or UFC or whatever, not a fan. It is what it is. Again, my own preference.
I really enjoyed the whole premise of falling in love with the guy that killed your brother. You know, the forbidden aspect of it all. Nothing like making family dynamics super interesting, that would be quite the story to tell your kids.
"Ma? What happened to uncle Tommy?"
"Well, daddy punched him in the fucking head and his brain turned to a bloody mushy mess. But shit happens. "
My last complaint was that I found it super slow and it didn't hold my interest. I read a book a day and this book took me almost three days to complete. THAT IS UNHEARD OF. But it says a lot when I am not dying to finish the book. Again, my own fault.
Maybe I should add some positives to this review so it doesn't feel like I am such a bitch raining on everyone's parade. The conflict between H and h was quite realistic and I respected that. The fight was extremely sincere and both of them both stood their ground. It wasn't a stupid fight either, they both felt that they were right and dealt with their emotions honestly considering the situation. So, that I can respect and the author thought that all out it seemed and so that was great.
I will still continue on with the series, because Zane sounds greaaaat.
I do enjoy my sport romances, preferably Hockey, because I am Canadian and that sport is engraved in all of us at birth. MMA fighting or UFC or whatever, not a fan. It is what it is. Again, my own preference.
I really enjoyed the whole premise of falling in love with the guy that killed your brother. You know, the forbidden aspect of it all. Nothing like making family dynamics super interesting, that would be quite the story to tell your kids.
"Ma? What happened to uncle Tommy?"
"Well, daddy punched him in the fucking head and his brain turned to a bloody mushy mess. But shit happens. "
My last complaint was that I found it super slow and it didn't hold my interest. I read a book a day and this book took me almost three days to complete. THAT IS UNHEARD OF. But it says a lot when I am not dying to finish the book. Again, my own fault.
Maybe I should add some positives to this review so it doesn't feel like I am such a bitch raining on everyone's parade. The conflict between H and h was quite realistic and I respected that. The fight was extremely sincere and both of them both stood their ground. It wasn't a stupid fight either, they both felt that they were right and dealt with their emotions honestly considering the situation. So, that I can respect and the author thought that all out it seemed and so that was great.
I will still continue on with the series, because Zane sounds greaaaat.
February 7, 2017
“Michael, what if part of my healing is you?”
I’ve been a fan of Cherrie Lynn’s writing for many years, so I always get ridiculously giddy with anticipation whenever one of her books is set to release. The perfect marriage of romance and steam, her stories crackle with sexual chemistry—her bedroom scenes featuring some of the most intense, arousing sex I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading—but it is the emotion that is ever-present in her every word that keeps me coming back for more. And this book did not disappoint. A touching tale of redemption and healing, this is a love story that is set against the aftermath of a senseless tragedy, and while it stems out of grief and remorse, it blossoms into an uplifting, inspiring romance that defeats all odds. I walked away elated, eager to recommend this book to anyone willing to listen, and thinking to myself, That is how it’s done.
Continue reading this review...
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August 11, 2017
3 1/5 stars
This was an okay read not too over the top but just right. It gives a vibe that is emotional, heartbreaking, a loss and regaining newfound friendship to love or is it the other way but I liked the pace of this storyline and although I wasn't happy with Savannah maybe 80+% into the story I get why but in the end always the heart wins and Mike Larsen is just that sweet tough sexy fighter that you'll just swoon over for.
This was an okay read not too over the top but just right. It gives a vibe that is emotional, heartbreaking, a loss and regaining newfound friendship to love or is it the other way but I liked the pace of this storyline and although I wasn't happy with Savannah maybe 80+% into the story I get why but in the end always the heart wins and Mike Larsen is just that sweet tough sexy fighter that you'll just swoon over for.
February 6, 2017
Loved this one!! Super hot and very sweet! Mike and Savannah had great chemistry! I can't wait for Zane's book!
February 6, 2017
3 stars...
I love the beginning.....love the forbidden concept but I think I didn't,t connect with the characters completely....
I love the beginning.....love the forbidden concept but I think I didn't,t connect with the characters completely....
February 6, 2017
‘They were only two people trying to come to grips with their new realities.’
It’s been quite a few years since we last read a book by Cherrie Lynn. We’ve missed her. When we talk ‘frowned upon’ love stories a specific kind is conjured in our minds. However, Raw Deal can be thought of in those terms, as in two people who due to circumstances should not be together. This romance had us thinking about emotional morality and comparing it to what we would feel, should this be real life. Would we be in the yes or the no camp? However, nothing is just black nor white. There’s ultimately grey as well, and in that grey are a swirl of emotions, passions, understanding and compassion all mixed up together to make an area of; but what if?
‘Hard to believe a hand that touched her so gently could ever hurt anyone.’
Savannah and her family suffer a tragic loss when her brother dies in a cage fight against the fierce beast that is Mike Larson. A tragic accident with dire repercussions. How do you go on from here? How do you cope and who do you turn to? Who would have thought that love can blossom in the face of violence?
‘What the fuck did you do when the “right thing” felt so completely wrong?’
Mike Larson has a story behind him and it’s one of sadness and grave responsibility. He’s a force to be reckoned with, but his heart is caring and he loves fiercely. All he wants is to protect those he cares about, those he loves. Savannah’s heart wants what it wants but her conscience questions it every step of the way until the only voice she can hear is the beat of her heart.
“But I do want you to be real.”
“This is…real as it gets, darlin’.”
“You’re nothing like I expected you to be. I only saw how you were with your opponents…”
We haven’t read an MMA fighter romance in a while but can’t help think that this is one of our favourites. Why? Because we felt like we were in the audience, we tasted and smelt the blood, sweat and heightened adrenaline. We saw it and we believed it. Not only that, we felt the guilt and the grief; the confusion and the rejection. We understood it, yet we fought against it alongside our heroine. This, at the same time as feeling protective of our hero despite what transpired at his hands. We loved Savannah and Mike’s story. There was something sweet and innocent about it whilst at the same time it was steamy with a dash of angst and aggression.
“It was just…a perfect storm of catastrophic circumstances.”
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December 18, 2018
This review is based on my personal opinion and personal trigger.
I don’t encourage you not to read this book. There are many positive reviews, so it’s up to you!
I don’t encourage you not to read this book. There are many positive reviews, so it’s up to you!
February 6, 2017
Raw Deal is the ultimate fight novel but this battle is about much more than a belt. The tumultuous drama bleeds out of the cage and into a deliciously sticky attraction between a fighter and a massage therapist brought together by tragedy. Equal parts intoxicating and forbidden, Raw Deal is a book that will make you question the existence of fate, the kind of book that takes heartbreak and pain and turns it into joy and hope, the kind of romance that swallows you up and sweeps you away.
I couldn't put this book down. In fact, it got exponentially harder to step away from as the story evolved. A badass fighter with a soft heart beneath his powerhouse exterior meets a heartbroken New Orleans beauty fighting her way back after the worst kind of blow. From tragedy, an epic battle of forbidden attraction and mangled hearts takes place and I was TKO'd. Wrung out. Cut open. By unanimous decision, the reader is the clear winner here, simply for being a spectator to this thoroughly captivating, unforgettable love story.
Raw Deal has a somber undertone that is impossible to forget, even in the most romantic moments, even in the sexiest scenes. The relationship between Mike and Savannah was born from tragedy, was built on grief. It evolves in a web of impossibility and uncertainty, the constant war between right and wrong, acceptance and resentment raging through it all. Raw Deal is such an emotionally conflicting ride, the sensuality and the sheer romanticism clashing with heartbreak and grief, demanding you feel every single bit of torment, every ounce of loss, every glimpse of hope and possibility and love.
Cherrie Lynn certainly changed things up with Savannah and Mike's story, giving Raw Deal an entirely different feel from anything else I've read from her. But rest assured, her signature sensuality, angst, and emotionally-charged romance is all there. It's because of this that Cherrie Lynn is one of my very favorite authors. She gives good romance. She gives good steam. She gives good leading men who are rough around the edges but brimming with heart and devotion when the right woman comes along. She gives amazing stories that just swoop in, pummel your heart, and steal your breath when you least expect it. The dialogue, the perfectly timed drama, the magnetic characters, these deliciously addictive circumstances all culminate into a fresh, unpredictable package that is so unlike her other books, but that I absolutely loved just as much. Raw Deal is the real deal and I can not wait for what's coming next for the Larson brothers.
I couldn't put this book down. In fact, it got exponentially harder to step away from as the story evolved. A badass fighter with a soft heart beneath his powerhouse exterior meets a heartbroken New Orleans beauty fighting her way back after the worst kind of blow. From tragedy, an epic battle of forbidden attraction and mangled hearts takes place and I was TKO'd. Wrung out. Cut open. By unanimous decision, the reader is the clear winner here, simply for being a spectator to this thoroughly captivating, unforgettable love story.
Raw Deal has a somber undertone that is impossible to forget, even in the most romantic moments, even in the sexiest scenes. The relationship between Mike and Savannah was born from tragedy, was built on grief. It evolves in a web of impossibility and uncertainty, the constant war between right and wrong, acceptance and resentment raging through it all. Raw Deal is such an emotionally conflicting ride, the sensuality and the sheer romanticism clashing with heartbreak and grief, demanding you feel every single bit of torment, every ounce of loss, every glimpse of hope and possibility and love.
Cherrie Lynn certainly changed things up with Savannah and Mike's story, giving Raw Deal an entirely different feel from anything else I've read from her. But rest assured, her signature sensuality, angst, and emotionally-charged romance is all there. It's because of this that Cherrie Lynn is one of my very favorite authors. She gives good romance. She gives good steam. She gives good leading men who are rough around the edges but brimming with heart and devotion when the right woman comes along. She gives amazing stories that just swoop in, pummel your heart, and steal your breath when you least expect it. The dialogue, the perfectly timed drama, the magnetic characters, these deliciously addictive circumstances all culminate into a fresh, unpredictable package that is so unlike her other books, but that I absolutely loved just as much. Raw Deal is the real deal and I can not wait for what's coming next for the Larson brothers.
December 4, 2021
I really liked this story, and it’s all because of Mike “Red Reaper” Larson. He’s sensitive, honest, vulnerable, sexy, and a vicious cage fighter.
The set-up is brutal. Mike’s last cage fight was with Savannah’s brother, and he landed the punch that killed him. I kept wondering if I was in Savannah’s shoes, could I have made the same decisions? I loved their chemistry. I loved their communication. I didn’t love her family, but I could completely understand their pain.
The ending was a complete cheese fest, I still grinned like a love-sick idiot. There is something so endearing about an MMA fighter, who loves with every bone in his body.
The set-up is brutal. Mike’s last cage fight was with Savannah’s brother, and he landed the punch that killed him. I kept wondering if I was in Savannah’s shoes, could I have made the same decisions? I loved their chemistry. I loved their communication. I didn’t love her family, but I could completely understand their pain.
The ending was a complete cheese fest, I still grinned like a love-sick idiot. There is something so endearing about an MMA fighter, who loves with every bone in his body.
February 4, 2017
4.5 Stars! Can't wait for the next book in this series! Hope it's Zane and Rowan!
Read
August 28, 2017DNF @ 51 % cause I am bored to frigging tears.
February 6, 2017
3.5 Stars - 3 Flames
There's no way for me to sugar coat this one. I found myself in a "frustration love" mood while reading this. My emotions were all over the place. I started this fully engaged and completely pulling for the underdog. But something happened half way through this read that flipped a switch in my brain, causing me to kind of "tune out". Thankfully, I was pulled back in (because I was close to NOT finishing this) and am happy that I stuck with it.
Savannah is grieving after her brother suffered an injury during a fight, causing death. Knowing that her brother knew what he was getting himself in to, although still hard, she wasn't having as hard of a time copping with the loss like the rest of her family. Especially her sister-in-law. So when the one person her sister-in-law blamed for the death shows up at the funeral, you can only imagine how that went. But Savannah did the unexpected. She actually listened to what this "devil" had to say. And so the story begins...
Michael has been dealt a rough life. It seems like nothing ever goes in his favor. But after being directly involved in the death of Tommy, everything changes. Knowing that he needed to apologize and give his respects to the family, he didn't realize he'd run in to the kindness that was Savannah. Determined, Michael embarks on a mission to do everything possible to make things right for the family. But in the process, he becomes more and more attached to Savannah and there's no stopping that train wreck. Or is there?
Like I stated earlier. There were parts of this story that had me turning the pages, anticipating the next move. But then I actually got bored with the story line. It just kind of stalled somewhere in the middle for me. Thankfully, I always give the author the benefit of the doubt and stuck with it, because the author was able to bring my intrigue back up to the level it originally was. Within the story you'll experience grief, lust, confusion, anticipation, hope, anger and of course a HEA. And I'll be the first to admit that I actually got a little chocked up at the end. Great start to a new series by this author. And although I'm nervous about it, I'm looking forward to the next one. #TeamZane
*I received this book from the Jeep Diva in exchange for my honest opinion.
There's no way for me to sugar coat this one. I found myself in a "frustration love" mood while reading this. My emotions were all over the place. I started this fully engaged and completely pulling for the underdog. But something happened half way through this read that flipped a switch in my brain, causing me to kind of "tune out". Thankfully, I was pulled back in (because I was close to NOT finishing this) and am happy that I stuck with it.
Savannah is grieving after her brother suffered an injury during a fight, causing death. Knowing that her brother knew what he was getting himself in to, although still hard, she wasn't having as hard of a time copping with the loss like the rest of her family. Especially her sister-in-law. So when the one person her sister-in-law blamed for the death shows up at the funeral, you can only imagine how that went. But Savannah did the unexpected. She actually listened to what this "devil" had to say. And so the story begins...
Michael has been dealt a rough life. It seems like nothing ever goes in his favor. But after being directly involved in the death of Tommy, everything changes. Knowing that he needed to apologize and give his respects to the family, he didn't realize he'd run in to the kindness that was Savannah. Determined, Michael embarks on a mission to do everything possible to make things right for the family. But in the process, he becomes more and more attached to Savannah and there's no stopping that train wreck. Or is there?
Like I stated earlier. There were parts of this story that had me turning the pages, anticipating the next move. But then I actually got bored with the story line. It just kind of stalled somewhere in the middle for me. Thankfully, I always give the author the benefit of the doubt and stuck with it, because the author was able to bring my intrigue back up to the level it originally was. Within the story you'll experience grief, lust, confusion, anticipation, hope, anger and of course a HEA. And I'll be the first to admit that I actually got a little chocked up at the end. Great start to a new series by this author. And although I'm nervous about it, I'm looking forward to the next one. #TeamZane
*I received this book from the Jeep Diva in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 6, 2017
I really loved this one. Great love story.
February 4, 2017
4.5 stars!!! I love this author and the characters she creates! I'm adding Mike Larson to that list because he was an amazing hero. He and Savannah were wonderful together and I really enjoyed this story. It was done tastefully, given the emotional event that took place and I'm so pleased with the book. I can NOT wait to read the next book. I don't care if it's about Zane or Damien... both are so interesting to me.
February 4, 2017
Link to full review below! Emotional and real! Angsty and beautiful! Read with caution! Your heart will be tugged a LOT! See full review on The Book Disciple
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