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In the Ring: A Dario Caivano Novel
“In the Ring” introduces Dario “DC” Caivano, heavyweight champion, who is also a man with a heavy heart. It isn’t without reason, however. As a teenager, Dario witnessed the murder of someone that he loved like a brother, and it took a lot out of him. It hardened him and left little to trust. Years have passed since the horrific crime, but it hasn’t gotten Dario any closer to being a man that can love . . . or be loved. In fact, he’s his best self when he’s in the ring where he can release his aggressions, if only for twelve rounds of “play”, to escape to a world where he can repeatedly annihilate the person responsible for his cousin’s death. But what happens when he allows himself to come up for air? Chanel Norwood is a single parent and club owner who is something like a “Boss”. She’s fiercely independent and knows exactly what she wants out of life, and right now it isn’t to be in an intimate relationship. She’s too busy taking care of business and raising a preteen son. After a failed relationship, Chanel has sworn off men—especially athletes. In her eyes, she’s already had one too many. But how long can you fight fate? When Dario and Chanel are thrown together, while the attraction is there, sparks don’t immediately fly. Both of them have lives and hearts that they’re very protective of. But as time goes on, they find there’s more to guard than just emotions when their worlds collide in a way that no one ever expected. “In the Ring” is not without its share of secrets, drama, and ah-ha moments. Overall, it’s a story of love, loss, life and paths to new beginnings.
323 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 16, 2017
97 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
About the author
Perri Forrest
42 books176 followersI had up my previous bio for years! It was nice and all, and gave details of my life. But it was so structured! And I’m kinda not. Because of that, I’ve decided to change it to something that really gives you a glimpse into who I am. Is that cool? K, good. So, here goes:
I’m a Bay Area girl. Cali is in my blood! I moved to Vegas in 2017 (No, I wasn’t following the Raiders!) to see how another way of life would be, after my only kid . . . the love of my life . . . decided he was joining the Marines. Can you believe that?! Sigh. Wait, deep sigh! I know some parents await the day for their kids to leave, not this Mama. That was my ace, my bestie in male form. I had to hit the reset button. But here I am. He’s thriving. I’m ‘trying’ to thrive. Lol! No, but really. This relocation was good because I’ve never lived away from home. So, I needed to grow, cultivate a little. It’s working for now.
I consider myself a novelist. And that’s because a novelist doesn’t just write in one genre. For the most part, I write #InterracialRomance, with a primary focus on #BWWM, as my leads. However, I have written a few novels that fell comfortably in the #AfricanAmericanFiction realm, showcasing some #BlackLove. In short, I love building stories. I like to say that I “spin #Sexy and #Suspense into a single web.” The two dynamics have to co-exist in my stories, or I’m bored. And you know if the author is bored with their own work, there’s a problem! Trust me, I’ve done plenty of rewrites when that’s happened.
On my literary journey, I just hope to always write the stories that women find relatable. Characters who are strong, but vulnerable when they need to be. Family-focused, and intelligent. Basically, mirror images of myself. Ironically, writing these characters, have helped me discover things about myself along the way. I think that’s why I write as often as I do. It’s almost like peeling back layers of me as I go. And to stop that process, kind of hits the pause button on me . . . my life . . . my existence. I have to be a moving machine at all times. Does that get stressful? Absolutely. But is it rewarding and are there many teachable moments? Absolutely!
Ever need me, reach out. Ever got questions, I’m never too busy to respond.
Peace & Blessings!
Perri
I’m a Bay Area girl. Cali is in my blood! I moved to Vegas in 2017 (No, I wasn’t following the Raiders!) to see how another way of life would be, after my only kid . . . the love of my life . . . decided he was joining the Marines. Can you believe that?! Sigh. Wait, deep sigh! I know some parents await the day for their kids to leave, not this Mama. That was my ace, my bestie in male form. I had to hit the reset button. But here I am. He’s thriving. I’m ‘trying’ to thrive. Lol! No, but really. This relocation was good because I’ve never lived away from home. So, I needed to grow, cultivate a little. It’s working for now.
I consider myself a novelist. And that’s because a novelist doesn’t just write in one genre. For the most part, I write #InterracialRomance, with a primary focus on #BWWM, as my leads. However, I have written a few novels that fell comfortably in the #AfricanAmericanFiction realm, showcasing some #BlackLove. In short, I love building stories. I like to say that I “spin #Sexy and #Suspense into a single web.” The two dynamics have to co-exist in my stories, or I’m bored. And you know if the author is bored with their own work, there’s a problem! Trust me, I’ve done plenty of rewrites when that’s happened.
On my literary journey, I just hope to always write the stories that women find relatable. Characters who are strong, but vulnerable when they need to be. Family-focused, and intelligent. Basically, mirror images of myself. Ironically, writing these characters, have helped me discover things about myself along the way. I think that’s why I write as often as I do. It’s almost like peeling back layers of me as I go. And to stop that process, kind of hits the pause button on me . . . my life . . . my existence. I have to be a moving machine at all times. Does that get stressful? Absolutely. But is it rewarding and are there many teachable moments? Absolutely!
Ever need me, reach out. Ever got questions, I’m never too busy to respond.
Peace & Blessings!
Perri
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
November 28, 2017
A sexy sensual love story.
I just finished In the Ring: A Dario Caivano Novel and gave it 5 stars. I love this story it was a great book I couldn't put it down it was sexy and sensuous and true to life. This is definitely a tearjerker all parties involved more true to life!
I just finished In the Ring: A Dario Caivano Novel and gave it 5 stars. I love this story it was a great book I couldn't put it down it was sexy and sensuous and true to life. This is definitely a tearjerker all parties involved more true to life!
May 9, 2017
I didn't like the cantankerous relationship between the two sisters. I didn't like Chanel's attitude or the things she said to her sister Rochelle once the big reveal happened. When it's all said and done, the situation and the outcome of how it was ultimately handled was very unfair to all parties involved. There should have been a transition plan in place -- not, permanently ever after.
July 2, 2017
Great Read!
Loved the storyline and I loved the relationship between the two main characters.I would recommend this book,my only critique is they had a few unanswered questions for me on Tyler so I am hoping for a part two this book.
Loved the storyline and I loved the relationship between the two main characters.I would recommend this book,my only critique is they had a few unanswered questions for me on Tyler so I am hoping for a part two this book.
April 20, 2017
In the Ring: A Dario Caivano Novel
Have you ever had something happen to you that changed the course of your life? This story is that something. One night changed as well as affected the lives of just about every character in this book. Rochelle may appear to be a selfish, misguided, and out of pocket woman and she's not the heroine but keep reading. There are plot twists that leave you breathless, emotions that send your heart into overdrive, love that is able to surpass naysayers, haters, and stumbling blocks, bonds that are formed instantaneously. All of these things are just a few of the reasons that make this book worth reading. The author gives you a story that bridges the past with the present in such a way that you can't put it down. Time stands still while reading this book. Making this an automatic reread selection. Dario Caivano is undefeated in the ring and the heart of the woman who is able to mend what's secretly hidden and broken in him. Chanel is a woman who loves unselfishly. Her heart of gold and dedication to the most undeserving of people is why she deserves a man like Dario. They bring the best out of each other. I hated to see this story end but I look forward to what ever this wonderful author releases next. Well done My Perri, well done!!
Have you ever had something happen to you that changed the course of your life? This story is that something. One night changed as well as affected the lives of just about every character in this book. Rochelle may appear to be a selfish, misguided, and out of pocket woman and she's not the heroine but keep reading. There are plot twists that leave you breathless, emotions that send your heart into overdrive, love that is able to surpass naysayers, haters, and stumbling blocks, bonds that are formed instantaneously. All of these things are just a few of the reasons that make this book worth reading. The author gives you a story that bridges the past with the present in such a way that you can't put it down. Time stands still while reading this book. Making this an automatic reread selection. Dario Caivano is undefeated in the ring and the heart of the woman who is able to mend what's secretly hidden and broken in him. Chanel is a woman who loves unselfishly. Her heart of gold and dedication to the most undeserving of people is why she deserves a man like Dario. They bring the best out of each other. I hated to see this story end but I look forward to what ever this wonderful author releases next. Well done My Perri, well done!!
October 31, 2017
Inevitable fate is what happened here
The plot twisted and thickened in a way that totally caught me off guard. It was fate that brought Chanel and Rai into Dario's life, probably with the help from the spirit of his cousin Luca. I can't get over why Tyler would want to force Chanel into a relationship. That man had no self pride, just the need to control.
I really loved how Perri planned out this story. The drama and mystery was well executed. It brought tears to my eyes to read the reaction that Dario's aunt Veronika had upon meeting her grandson as part of her family for the first time. And the rivalry Chanel and her sister Rochelle had was well written also. Rochelle should have been more thankful for her sister, but I was happy to read Rochelle came to her senses.
I enjoyed reading this book. Having said that, there were just a couple of scenes that did not seem to flow well into next, it was like it was rushed or felt as though a transition was missing, i. e. when Chanel went to Dario's house to discuss Rai. She walked in the door and the next thing happening, they are having sex. Despite this, the plot was well thought out and the characters were interestingly complicated with their own evolution.
The plot twisted and thickened in a way that totally caught me off guard. It was fate that brought Chanel and Rai into Dario's life, probably with the help from the spirit of his cousin Luca. I can't get over why Tyler would want to force Chanel into a relationship. That man had no self pride, just the need to control.
I really loved how Perri planned out this story. The drama and mystery was well executed. It brought tears to my eyes to read the reaction that Dario's aunt Veronika had upon meeting her grandson as part of her family for the first time. And the rivalry Chanel and her sister Rochelle had was well written also. Rochelle should have been more thankful for her sister, but I was happy to read Rochelle came to her senses.
I enjoyed reading this book. Having said that, there were just a couple of scenes that did not seem to flow well into next, it was like it was rushed or felt as though a transition was missing, i. e. when Chanel went to Dario's house to discuss Rai. She walked in the door and the next thing happening, they are having sex. Despite this, the plot was well thought out and the characters were interestingly complicated with their own evolution.
April 21, 2017
Awww, so sweet!
I really enjoyed Dario and Chanel. I was hot with her tho, to let that damn Tyler try to ruin their happiness. But I was so glad she came to her senses. This was another good book from Perri.
I really enjoyed Dario and Chanel. I was hot with her tho, to let that damn Tyler try to ruin their happiness. But I was so glad she came to her senses. This was another good book from Perri.
April 20, 2017
Good book
I love this story this was great love story. I was surprised that the sister was the mother of Lucus son that was killed. I didn't see that one coming,but this one of perri books, she always keep you on edge. I will read this book again. 5 stars
I love this story this was great love story. I was surprised that the sister was the mother of Lucus son that was killed. I didn't see that one coming,but this one of perri books, she always keep you on edge. I will read this book again. 5 stars
May 16, 2017
Fun book
I enjoyed this book from beginning to end. Not at all what I expected. I was a bit disappointed in Chanel for allowing herself to be manipulated. Buttttt I always have to remind myself that I'm not a parent and don't know the lengths they would go to in protecting their children. I liked the layers to all the characters and how they are connected to each other. It was a nice HEA. I'm hoping the sister has her own story. I'm sure it's painful. But worth a read.
I enjoyed this book from beginning to end. Not at all what I expected. I was a bit disappointed in Chanel for allowing herself to be manipulated. Buttttt I always have to remind myself that I'm not a parent and don't know the lengths they would go to in protecting their children. I liked the layers to all the characters and how they are connected to each other. It was a nice HEA. I'm hoping the sister has her own story. I'm sure it's painful. But worth a read.
June 22, 2017
What a Ride!
Looking through my TBR collection for something new and different, and this book drew my attention. I've never read anything by Perri Forrest, so I figured why not? Best decision I've made in a while!
This book is good, y'all! Well written, interesting characters and a storyline that pulls you in from Page 1. So many twists and turns! When I have to make myself stop reading because I need to know what happens next, the book is good!
Although I don't think race has to be made a huge deal in IR romance (unless it's the storyline), I appreciate that the author acknowledged it in this book. So many authors breeze right over it. But if the H has only been dating, let's say white chicks, and all of a sudden he's attracted to and dating a black chick, that should definitely raise questions and eyebrows. But maybe that's just my family and friends, lol. Anyway, it was touched on and handled nicely here.
This was my first Perri Forrest novel, but it definitely won't be my last. Keep up the good work!
Looking through my TBR collection for something new and different, and this book drew my attention. I've never read anything by Perri Forrest, so I figured why not? Best decision I've made in a while!
This book is good, y'all! Well written, interesting characters and a storyline that pulls you in from Page 1. So many twists and turns! When I have to make myself stop reading because I need to know what happens next, the book is good!
Although I don't think race has to be made a huge deal in IR romance (unless it's the storyline), I appreciate that the author acknowledged it in this book. So many authors breeze right over it. But if the H has only been dating, let's say white chicks, and all of a sudden he's attracted to and dating a black chick, that should definitely raise questions and eyebrows. But maybe that's just my family and friends, lol. Anyway, it was touched on and handled nicely here.
This was my first Perri Forrest novel, but it definitely won't be my last. Keep up the good work!
May 10, 2017
Good book
Reallybgood book. One I will read again. I hope she turns this one into a series. I highly recommend this book. Many might think Chanel was little over the top but I really like the character and Dario was great. I'm not going to spoil the book but the surprise twist was GREAT. I looked for forward to reading more about Channel and Dario.
Reallybgood book. One I will read again. I hope she turns this one into a series. I highly recommend this book. Many might think Chanel was little over the top but I really like the character and Dario was great. I'm not going to spoil the book but the surprise twist was GREAT. I looked for forward to reading more about Channel and Dario.
May 18, 2017
Great Read.
Ms. Forrest hit it right out of the park with this book. With an unexpected twist, she delivered a heart warming romanic love story. Fate drew Chanel and Darius together, and love kept them together. Job well done Mrs Forrest. I'm looking forward to your next best sellers.
Ms. Forrest hit it right out of the park with this book. With an unexpected twist, she delivered a heart warming romanic love story. Fate drew Chanel and Darius together, and love kept them together. Job well done Mrs Forrest. I'm looking forward to your next best sellers.
May 19, 2017
Slow moving 2.5 stars
The storyline and the twist and turns were predictable. After reading the first few pages you knew how the book was going to end. I found this story to be slow moving and slightly boring. At times I felt it to be clunky especially the parts that focus on Dario he sounded a little slow. Next time I will skip the reviews and request a sample.
The storyline and the twist and turns were predictable. After reading the first few pages you knew how the book was going to end. I found this story to be slow moving and slightly boring. At times I felt it to be clunky especially the parts that focus on Dario he sounded a little slow. Next time I will skip the reviews and request a sample.
January 10, 2019
Don't know why I waited so long to read In The Ring.
Especially since I'm not unfamiliar with this authors work. What I am is glad I finally did and I enjoyed it very much. Even got a bonus with a second book. Highly looking forward to reading more of this couple and to see how the new family is progressing.
Especially since I'm not unfamiliar with this authors work. What I am is glad I finally did and I enjoyed it very much. Even got a bonus with a second book. Highly looking forward to reading more of this couple and to see how the new family is progressing.
January 26, 2019
Unexpected Love
I enjoyed the storyline and the chain of events in the book. The surprises, secrets, the different characters and suspense that kept you in eager anticipation. The connection of the story to the characters are well woven and showed well defined attention to detail. A very good read.
I enjoyed the storyline and the chain of events in the book. The surprises, secrets, the different characters and suspense that kept you in eager anticipation. The connection of the story to the characters are well woven and showed well defined attention to detail. A very good read.
May 7, 2017
Not what it looks like
This story is amazing!! It's not what it looks like. Whatever you think you will guess, you want. The twist and turns of fate that Rai, Dario, and his mother goes through will leave you in tears then smiles. Great read all the way.
This story is amazing!! It's not what it looks like. Whatever you think you will guess, you want. The twist and turns of fate that Rai, Dario, and his mother goes through will leave you in tears then smiles. Great read all the way.
May 9, 2017
Delightful twists
What a wonderful story! Dario and Chanel were firecrackers together, and I loved how they loved Rai. What delightful twists to see how things came full circled. The characters and plot were extremely thought out and well written. I would recommend this book.
What a wonderful story! Dario and Chanel were firecrackers together, and I loved how they loved Rai. What delightful twists to see how things came full circled. The characters and plot were extremely thought out and well written. I would recommend this book.
May 14, 2017
Beautiful
Loved how Ms Forrester brought the story full circle. The love both Dario and Chanel never thought they would find. I was curious to know what would happen with Tyler after he for his ass beat. Enjoyed thoroughly.
Loved how Ms Forrester brought the story full circle. The love both Dario and Chanel never thought they would find. I was curious to know what would happen with Tyler after he for his ass beat. Enjoyed thoroughly.
May 15, 2017
Good book
This book had me crying and laughing with all the ups and downs that the characters when though to get to the happy ending. I were read it again just to make sure I did not miss anything.
This book had me crying and laughing with all the ups and downs that the characters when though to get to the happy ending. I were read it again just to make sure I did not miss anything.
May 22, 2017
Loved it
I really enjoyed this book, it was such a very good read. I loved Dario and Chanel..oh how things worked out. I really recommend this book and I definitely will be looking forward for more
I really enjoyed this book, it was such a very good read. I loved Dario and Chanel..oh how things worked out. I really recommend this book and I definitely will be looking forward for more
May 31, 2017
Good story
Loose end with Tyler...no resolution. Rochelle's change of heart was rushed. It was an okay story of love...the dialogue between Dario and Chanel was spoken as if they were teenagers and not 30 something professionals.
Loose end with Tyler...no resolution. Rochelle's change of heart was rushed. It was an okay story of love...the dialogue between Dario and Chanel was spoken as if they were teenagers and not 30 something professionals.
November 26, 2017
I really like the story and how ended. However the secret that was revealed did not seem like a big enough reason to end the relationship she was in and go back to one that was no good for her or her child.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2019
love mixture
A good love story. Dario and Chanel found their love in each other. Channel had a problem with love until she met Dario, a white man. He found her very exciting and wanted meet her. He fell in love, but she had complications he had to overcome. Great story.
A good love story. Dario and Chanel found their love in each other. Channel had a problem with love until she met Dario, a white man. He found her very exciting and wanted meet her. He fell in love, but she had complications he had to overcome. Great story.
January 16, 2019
Great book
Man this book had me shocked. I didn't really didn't know where this was going. I had ideas of what could be going on. Really shocked and glad that the ending was were it was. I can't wait to see what part two brings.
Man this book had me shocked. I didn't really didn't know where this was going. I had ideas of what could be going on. Really shocked and glad that the ending was were it was. I can't wait to see what part two brings.
March 30, 2019
Full circle
It’s amazing how life sometimes comes full circle. Lucas and his tragic ending connected so many people. Unmatched happiness years later for a family I’m sure missed him dearly. Rai was such a good son and Chanel was a great mom!
It’s amazing how life sometimes comes full circle. Lucas and his tragic ending connected so many people. Unmatched happiness years later for a family I’m sure missed him dearly. Rai was such a good son and Chanel was a great mom!
April 6, 2020
I LOVE THE STORY
5 stars it was a nonstop read once the story line unfolded....the past collided with the present....phenomenal turn to become a full and complete blood circle....LOVE LOVE LOVE THE READ😘
5 stars it was a nonstop read once the story line unfolded....the past collided with the present....phenomenal turn to become a full and complete blood circle....LOVE LOVE LOVE THE READ😘
December 12, 2020
So good!
I stayed up until 2 am to finish this book, it was that good. Really loved Chanel and Dario and how their relationship developed. I also loved how Ms Forrest developed the storyline and wrapped it up in the perfect ending ! Worth a read.
I stayed up until 2 am to finish this book, it was that good. Really loved Chanel and Dario and how their relationship developed. I also loved how Ms Forrest developed the storyline and wrapped it up in the perfect ending ! Worth a read.
May 6, 2017
4 Stars
That was a really sweet love story. It was quite fuzzy wuzzy. It had me getting misty a few times...lol
That was a really sweet love story. It was quite fuzzy wuzzy. It had me getting misty a few times...lol
June 23, 2017
Sigh
Way better than I thought it would be. Once we got a deeper look at the characters I couldn't put it down. Great read!
Way better than I thought it would be. Once we got a deeper look at the characters I couldn't put it down. Great read!
September 5, 2017
Beautiful
This book is full of love. I enjoyed it all. It definitely put a smile on my face. Great book!
This book is full of love. I enjoyed it all. It definitely put a smile on my face. Great book!
October 18, 2017
Very Good Read
I loved this book. I love how there was redemption for the characters. I only wish ole boy would have gotten his ads whipped for all the carp he pulled.
I loved this book. I love how there was redemption for the characters. I only wish ole boy would have gotten his ads whipped for all the carp he pulled.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews