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Breaking #2
Changing the Game
A half-cocked hellion and a woman looking for safety both have secrets that could ruin their second chance.
Even though the only woman Lexington Olivo ever loved walked away five years ago, fate has just brought her back. Now he’s on the road to redemption, determined to prove he can be a better man than he was before…but is the darkness of his past really gone?
After a tumultuous relationship with Lex ended five years ago, Lila knows her safest bet is to keep her distance. But Lex is clean, sober, successful now…and as sexy as he ever was. So when he wants a second chance, her heat and body crave the intensity he ignites within her, and she can’t refuse.
But this time, Lila’s the one with a secret. One that’s been five years in the making and will change the game for both of them. And while Lex is busy proving himself, the past comes pounding on his door. The gang he used to fight for wants him back. This time, they won’t take no for an answer.
Fans of Penelope Ward and Kennedy Ryan will love this emotional second chance romance!
Even though the only woman Lexington Olivo ever loved walked away five years ago, fate has just brought her back. Now he’s on the road to redemption, determined to prove he can be a better man than he was before…but is the darkness of his past really gone?
After a tumultuous relationship with Lex ended five years ago, Lila knows her safest bet is to keep her distance. But Lex is clean, sober, successful now…and as sexy as he ever was. So when he wants a second chance, her heat and body crave the intensity he ignites within her, and she can’t refuse.
But this time, Lila’s the one with a secret. One that’s been five years in the making and will change the game for both of them. And while Lex is busy proving himself, the past comes pounding on his door. The gang he used to fight for wants him back. This time, they won’t take no for an answer.
Fans of Penelope Ward and Kennedy Ryan will love this emotional second chance romance!
305 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 22, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
November 25, 2018
ARC received for review
Second chance romance. They were college sweethearts, and then Lex got mixed up in drugs and gangs. Lila gave him the boot. Now five years later, he's clean and an up-and-coming MMA fighter. They meet again, and fireworks are still there. Lots of drama and some sexy times. Then yet again the book just ends, nothing extra.
Second chance romance. They were college sweethearts, and then Lex got mixed up in drugs and gangs. Lila gave him the boot. Now five years later, he's clean and an up-and-coming MMA fighter. They meet again, and fireworks are still there. Lots of drama and some sexy times. Then yet again the book just ends, nothing extra.
December 27, 2024
A stand-alone novel and darker storyline unlike book one of the Breaking The Rules series. Despite the minor difference, the story was kinda meh. Not entirely engaging for me and I found it to be mediocre at best. Not bad. Not good. Just meh. Found myself dragging myself through the chapters so I dropped it like it hot half way through and moved on with something else more interesting. Just not my cup of tea.
December 11, 2018
Full Review on my blog!
*a copy was provided by NetGalley*
Oooooof
This was everything. I love second chance romances, but this was so much more.
Lex, a MMA trainer and Lila, a registered nurse hoping to get a promotion. Their past romance didn't end well and they weren't planning on ever seeing each other again, but fast forward five years and they bump into each other. Now that they've rekindled their relationship, Lila wants to hold off on dating him in fear that their relationship should end in the same circumstances. But he is no longer the same man she left.
Lex and Lila's story is based on a dark past, very opposites that attract 'the good girl and bad boy'. The story is told from both the past and present day. It' has secrets, and twists.
I loved the characters and can't wait for the next book in the series! I highly recommend it!
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*a copy was provided by NetGalley*
Oooooof
This was everything. I love second chance romances, but this was so much more.
Lex, a MMA trainer and Lila, a registered nurse hoping to get a promotion. Their past romance didn't end well and they weren't planning on ever seeing each other again, but fast forward five years and they bump into each other. Now that they've rekindled their relationship, Lila wants to hold off on dating him in fear that their relationship should end in the same circumstances. But he is no longer the same man she left.
Lex and Lila's story is based on a dark past, very opposites that attract 'the good girl and bad boy'. The story is told from both the past and present day. It' has secrets, and twists.
I loved the characters and can't wait for the next book in the series! I highly recommend it!
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September 24, 2019
‘Holt’s gym attracted a certain caliber – models, celebrities, the upper crust '
Ohio author Ember Leigh has published twelve novels to date, books in romance series – BAYSHORE SERIES, EROTIC DESTINATIONS SERIES and this, THE BREAKING SERIES, of which this is Book 2. She lives near Lake Erie.
While her status as a steamy romance writer is established, in this book Ember adds a fine sense of family conflicts, touch-me-not attractions, and some insights into fitness gyms. It works well and opens her story with gusto – ‘ “Is the celebrity ready?” Lex turned at the sound of Travis’s voice. His friend sauntered up, squeezing the back of Lex’s neck just hard enough to make him grunt. “Please don’t interrupt the artistic process,” Lex said as the makeup artist brushed a final coat of glistening powder onto his chest, strictly to accentuate his pecs and abs. It was standard protocol to get screen-ready, one of the many steps to filming a video he hadn’t known about until a couple of months prior. Luckily the stuff didn’t sweat or punch off – not that many of their opponents could land a fist on him or Travis. “You’re working serious magic,” Travis said to the makeup artist. “She’s very talented,” Lex added quickly, “but let’s be real, these abs don’t need much help. Am I right?” The makeup artist’s blush was the only response he needed. And damn if that pretty blush didn’t remind him of another blonde he knew once upon a time. One he knew better than to think too much about…’
Ember provides a tight synopsis of her plot – ‘A half-cocked hellion and a woman looking for safety both have secrets that could ruin their second chance. Even though the only woman Lexington Olivo ever loved walked away five years ago, fate has just brought her back. Now he’s on the road to redemption, determined to prove he can be a better man than he was before…but is the darkness of his past really gone? After a tumultuous relationship with Lex ended five years ago, Lila knows her safest bet is to keep her distance. But Lex is clean, sober, successful now…and as sexy as he ever was. So when he wants a second chance, her heat and body crave the intensity he ignites within her, and she can’t refuse. But this time, Lila’s the one with a secret. One that’s been five years in the making and will change the game for both of them. And while Lex is busy proving himself, the past comes pounding on his door. The gang he used to fight for wants him back. This time, they won’t take no for an answer.’
Solid writing from an author deserving of attention, this series just gets better with each story.
Ohio author Ember Leigh has published twelve novels to date, books in romance series – BAYSHORE SERIES, EROTIC DESTINATIONS SERIES and this, THE BREAKING SERIES, of which this is Book 2. She lives near Lake Erie.
While her status as a steamy romance writer is established, in this book Ember adds a fine sense of family conflicts, touch-me-not attractions, and some insights into fitness gyms. It works well and opens her story with gusto – ‘ “Is the celebrity ready?” Lex turned at the sound of Travis’s voice. His friend sauntered up, squeezing the back of Lex’s neck just hard enough to make him grunt. “Please don’t interrupt the artistic process,” Lex said as the makeup artist brushed a final coat of glistening powder onto his chest, strictly to accentuate his pecs and abs. It was standard protocol to get screen-ready, one of the many steps to filming a video he hadn’t known about until a couple of months prior. Luckily the stuff didn’t sweat or punch off – not that many of their opponents could land a fist on him or Travis. “You’re working serious magic,” Travis said to the makeup artist. “She’s very talented,” Lex added quickly, “but let’s be real, these abs don’t need much help. Am I right?” The makeup artist’s blush was the only response he needed. And damn if that pretty blush didn’t remind him of another blonde he knew once upon a time. One he knew better than to think too much about…’
Ember provides a tight synopsis of her plot – ‘A half-cocked hellion and a woman looking for safety both have secrets that could ruin their second chance. Even though the only woman Lexington Olivo ever loved walked away five years ago, fate has just brought her back. Now he’s on the road to redemption, determined to prove he can be a better man than he was before…but is the darkness of his past really gone? After a tumultuous relationship with Lex ended five years ago, Lila knows her safest bet is to keep her distance. But Lex is clean, sober, successful now…and as sexy as he ever was. So when he wants a second chance, her heat and body crave the intensity he ignites within her, and she can’t refuse. But this time, Lila’s the one with a secret. One that’s been five years in the making and will change the game for both of them. And while Lex is busy proving himself, the past comes pounding on his door. The gang he used to fight for wants him back. This time, they won’t take no for an answer.’
Solid writing from an author deserving of attention, this series just gets better with each story.
February 11, 2019
3.5 - 4 Stars Spoilers Ahead
OK, I was on a roll last night with this group, which btw, I love all of these men:) . OK, again my issues were not with the Hero's cause I LOVED Lex but again with the heroine, Lila:(
Their story was good but for me could have been written better for my standards and Lila....hmmmmmm I liked her less than Amara and wasn't happy about the way the added part to their story played out. This story HAD potential esp when we get a glimpse of what their "added" storyline would be BUT for me....it fell short.
Will I continue....yes, do I enjoy this author yes BUT I am hoping the woman of the stories get "better" for me personally!
OK, I was on a roll last night with this group, which btw, I love all of these men:) . OK, again my issues were not with the Hero's cause I LOVED Lex but again with the heroine, Lila:(
Their story was good but for me could have been written better for my standards and Lila....hmmmmmm I liked her less than Amara and wasn't happy about the way the added part to their story played out. This story HAD potential esp when we get a glimpse of what their "added" storyline would be BUT for me....it fell short.
Will I continue....yes, do I enjoy this author yes BUT I am hoping the woman of the stories get "better" for me personally!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2020
Good read
Lex came from a dark last and he lost his one true love due to his stupidity. Now years later a chance meeting brings them together again only for the darkness to resurface.
Lex came from a dark last and he lost his one true love due to his stupidity. Now years later a chance meeting brings them together again only for the darkness to resurface.
October 30, 2018
Ember Leigh does it again with Changing The Game. I love a dark romance and I love second chance romances. This story was that and so much more. We get to see the under ground world at it's finest.
Lex is an under ground fighter for a gang. He loves the fighting and the drugs and everything that comes with the under ground life but he also loves Lila. She is his everything and the chemistry they have is crazy hot and sexy as hell but Lila is tired of the drugs, fights and other crap that comes with loving Lex so she leaves him.
Fast forward five years and Lex has cleaned himself up and has his life all together except for the one who got away Lila. Fate is a b@#ch they say and the two of them meet up with each other again and Lila can't help wanting Lex even more than she did before. Lex sets out to show Lila he has changed and everything is going great until their past comes back to haunt them and changes everything Lex has worked so hard to get.
Can Lex and Lila survive this blast from the past that will not take no for an answer or will they sink back into the underground and lose everything they worked so hard for?
Lex is an under ground fighter for a gang. He loves the fighting and the drugs and everything that comes with the under ground life but he also loves Lila. She is his everything and the chemistry they have is crazy hot and sexy as hell but Lila is tired of the drugs, fights and other crap that comes with loving Lex so she leaves him.
Fast forward five years and Lex has cleaned himself up and has his life all together except for the one who got away Lila. Fate is a b@#ch they say and the two of them meet up with each other again and Lila can't help wanting Lex even more than she did before. Lex sets out to show Lila he has changed and everything is going great until their past comes back to haunt them and changes everything Lex has worked so hard to get.
Can Lex and Lila survive this blast from the past that will not take no for an answer or will they sink back into the underground and lose everything they worked so hard for?
October 25, 2018
While I loved the overall concept and feel of the story, at times it felt a bit rushed and it took me a few sentences to realize which character’s POV I was reading from (which always takes away from a story, IMO).
I did love the darker undertone to the book (I’m always down for a darker love story) and while the characters attraction was undeniable, I needed to feel more longing from each character in the beginning.
Changing the Game is book 2 in the series but can be read as a stand-alone. I am looking forward to book 3!!
I did love the darker undertone to the book (I’m always down for a darker love story) and while the characters attraction was undeniable, I needed to feel more longing from each character in the beginning.
Changing the Game is book 2 in the series but can be read as a stand-alone. I am looking forward to book 3!!
December 28, 2018
A second chance romance story. It starts with Lex, Lexington who is now an MMA fighter and trainer at a gym that is owned by his friend Travis. Five years ago his life was different very different. Actually it started before that in high school when he meet and feel for the girl that was his tutor for an English class. They were both seniors and she helped pass so he could graduate. He also feel for her. Lila though kept putting him off and would not go out on a date with him. She had been accepted into U.C.L.A. and was looking forward to that opportunity. Lex though continued to show up to the library and talk to her, finally during the summer they went out on a date and it was over, over her denying her feelings for him when they kissed for the first time. They moved in together, she started school he was working and everything was going good for the time being. Then a gang named the Kings saw him fight one night outside of a bar and the next thing he knew he was fighting in underground matches. Winning and bringing in more money than he could by working. He also started drinking more, but slowly everything went downhill when the drugs took over his life. One night they had a fight and she walked out knowing that even as big as he was he would never lay a hand on her, he moved from the door when she asked him to move. Crying telling her he would change, she walked away crying. He looked for her for months but came up with nothing. After a fight one night and not a good one the Kings let him walk away and Travis helps get clean. Now five years later while he is in the ring at the gym and a tour is taking place their eyes meet, neither one can imagine seeing the other one. It is not until later when they are out that it becomes uncomfortable and they begin to talk. You find that even though he is still angry he is still in love with her. She on the other hand does not know what she is feeling and she also has a secret that she wants to tell him but does not know when would be the right time. They start to hang out together to get to know each other again when she thinks he is beginning to act like he did years ago. When he arrives via ambulance in the emergency room that she works as a nurse she knows that it is not good but also that she is still in love with him and really has never stopped loving him and she must help him and find out what happened. A wonderful story of girl from the right side of the tracks falling for a boy from the wrong side. Good characters and the author leads you along to a few twists that you don’t see along the way. A very good book. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 5 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
November 19, 2018
An e-arc has been provided in exchange for an honest review.
Changing the Game is a story about Lex, a MMA trainer and Lila, a registered nurse hoping to get a promotion. Their past romance didn't end well and neither one was expecting to see the other again. Now that they've rekindled their relationship, Lila wants to hold off on dating him in fear that their relationship should end in the same circumstances.
As much of a sucker as I am for cheesy romance books, this one just wasn't my cup of tea. the characters weren't... vivid enough for memory and I even struggled to keep invested in their romance or their personal issues. Honestly, if I met these two on the streets, I probably wouldn't even pay attention. They're just so... plain. Not that there's anything wrong with plain, it's just that you don't want your main characters to blend into the background such as these two do.
Aside from the characters, the writing was inconsistent in parts. I mentioned in an update that one of the head nurses told Lila that there was a patient with a broken arm. We meet the patient with Lila and the mother said that they believed he had a broken leg? Then moving on in the next paragraph, it said Lila looked at his arm. So, was it a broken arm or a broken leg? I still don't know.
This was a minor situation, but it still left something of inconsistency and wasn't something I could just ignore.
The dialogue I felt was good. It gave the plain characters some distinction, but the minor characters had weird traits that stood out in an uncomfortable way rather than in a more "here's-a-background-character-that-is-only-used-to-make-conversation-when-the-plot-requires" kind of way. Like, this guy named Carlos apparently "whoops" every three minutes. Not exactly subtle dialogue.
Ember Leigh provides a vivid view of the surroundings, which is nice or else the book would fall under "White room syndrome" which would make everything about this book severely boring. However, this was the one part I liked. Although, there are certain things that are needed in order to continue reading a book besides a detailed background, it held my interest for a short period of time.
All in all, this book was simply okay. In terms of it being great, I definitely wouldn't say that, nor would I actively mention it to my friends in passing. However, if I had a friend who was looking for some lighthearted romance fun, I would give them this.
February 17, 2020
Lexington’s past comes back to haunt him five years after he has broken his bad habits. He is now fighting legitimately and has a great job as well as great friends. It’s about to come tumbling down though. After doing a promo for the gym he’s working at, his past finds him and wants him back. He has also seen his one true love again and wants to start over, but fate has a different idea.
Lila has a secret that has been in the making for five years. Her reuniting with Lex may be a disaster if he discovers her secret. Their reuniting can also put her and her secret in danger. Unfortunately, Lex is the only man who has ever made Lila feel like she was alive and desired. She’s not sure she can let him go a second time, but will he understand her decisions she made five years ago? Will he forgive her for walking away back then?
I enjoyed this story and the twists that were in it. This second chance romance has a lot riding on it and if these two can overcome their past together they will find a great future ahead of them together. There is drama, suspense, danger, and a very hot attraction in this story and it is great. It was easy to read and hard to put down. I give this story a 4-star review and suggest it to readers who enjoy second chance romance, MMA fighters who are talented, cocky, and dangerous when provoked. I have not completed Breaking the Rules, but plan to. I can’t wait for Breaking the Sinner which is the next book in the series. These MMA fighters make a great story to read.
Lila has a secret that has been in the making for five years. Her reuniting with Lex may be a disaster if he discovers her secret. Their reuniting can also put her and her secret in danger. Unfortunately, Lex is the only man who has ever made Lila feel like she was alive and desired. She’s not sure she can let him go a second time, but will he understand her decisions she made five years ago? Will he forgive her for walking away back then?
I enjoyed this story and the twists that were in it. This second chance romance has a lot riding on it and if these two can overcome their past together they will find a great future ahead of them together. There is drama, suspense, danger, and a very hot attraction in this story and it is great. It was easy to read and hard to put down. I give this story a 4-star review and suggest it to readers who enjoy second chance romance, MMA fighters who are talented, cocky, and dangerous when provoked. I have not completed Breaking the Rules, but plan to. I can’t wait for Breaking the Sinner which is the next book in the series. These MMA fighters make a great story to read.
March 8, 2020
I usually only give reviews on books I love, because If I don’t like it, I truly believe that it just may be me & that others may like it! But I read this as an arc, so here goes my review: I liked the story, and I liked the emotions the author was able to pull from me in the scenes. At times, though, I found myself skipping over paragraphs to get to the good stuff. The storyline is real & believable, but I guess it was the characters’ inner dialogues that just felt like too much & trying to justify their actions constantly was overkill for me. The sexual tension was HOT, but when Lila keeps going for more steamy action, then saying she wants to be friends & keeps pulling back literally the next second after each hot encounter, it just felt more junior high than an adult with a child. The whole storyline of the kid was off to me as well. She can hide him so easily even though she has no time with all her work overtime, but then seems to have a lot of free time to meet up with Lex. Then she left her son in the car which is a gigantic NO for parents! Like I mentioned earlier, I think it was a good read, but just not my favorite by Ember Leigh. It could be though with a few revisions, I think!
So on a good note: I read “Breaking the Rules” first & loved it! 5 Stars! Felt more like adults dealing with their issues & making their relationship blossom over time through their ups & downs.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
So on a good note: I read “Breaking the Rules” first & loved it! 5 Stars! Felt more like adults dealing with their issues & making their relationship blossom over time through their ups & downs.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 2, 2018
Thanks to the author for an ARC to read and give my honest opinion.
This was a first by this author and I have to give her kudos because she basically nailed a great book. Second chance romances make a part of all of us flutter because let's face it...plenty of us have an ex we would love for this to magically work with. I truly enjoyed Lex as a character and his come about from bad way. His stoic character and the lovely Lila made for a great pair.
What did I like? Love the MMA angle and all the seriously delicious sex scenes that seem to come with making out with a rock hard ab God. Lex seemed to have really turned his life around which had to of been hard to get away from both drugs and gang affiliations. Second chance romances are just fun, you get the slight drama and the fun makeup sex without all the nastiness.
Would I buy this book? I would definitely say it's a good read, the only hiccup was introducing the child that they had together but Lex didn't know about. I felt that was a bit awkward almost like a stumble. At first it did not seem like that's where the author intended to go but she covered up herself fine after that. I'm sorry if that feels like a spoiler but to me it did not make much difference in my reading fun.
Would I read from this author again? Yes, I enjoyed the book. I'm a busy reader so I can't say I'd run over and read everything she had but if she needed me to beta read again I'd be delighted.
Four stars of entertainment! Thanks for a good read!
This was a first by this author and I have to give her kudos because she basically nailed a great book. Second chance romances make a part of all of us flutter because let's face it...plenty of us have an ex we would love for this to magically work with. I truly enjoyed Lex as a character and his come about from bad way. His stoic character and the lovely Lila made for a great pair.
What did I like? Love the MMA angle and all the seriously delicious sex scenes that seem to come with making out with a rock hard ab God. Lex seemed to have really turned his life around which had to of been hard to get away from both drugs and gang affiliations. Second chance romances are just fun, you get the slight drama and the fun makeup sex without all the nastiness.
Would I buy this book? I would definitely say it's a good read, the only hiccup was introducing the child that they had together but Lex didn't know about. I felt that was a bit awkward almost like a stumble. At first it did not seem like that's where the author intended to go but she covered up herself fine after that. I'm sorry if that feels like a spoiler but to me it did not make much difference in my reading fun.
Would I read from this author again? Yes, I enjoyed the book. I'm a busy reader so I can't say I'd run over and read everything she had but if she needed me to beta read again I'd be delighted.
Four stars of entertainment! Thanks for a good read!
November 2, 2018
Changing the Game by Ember Leigh is a fun read! I enjoyed, but I also had some problems with it, hence my three star review.
Let me preface that I'm not really a huge mma/ fighting trope fan, because the men tend to be too... over the top alpha, and if you've been around my reviews for a while you know I'm not a big fan of that. I went out on a limb reading Changing the Game. If that is your cup of tea, you will probably love this story much more than I did.
The entire story is rooted in a dark past, very opposites attract with the good girl and bad boy. The story bounces around in timeline from past to present day, the story is filled with secrets, and twists. I was honestly conflicted on how I felt about Lex, he seemed like he hadn't gotten his life together, but he was also kind of petty and immature to me. I wanted to love him, I mean he's a sexy beast of a man, but he just didn't do it for me.
Now Lila on the other hand, I got her. Although I can't say that I've ever fallen for the bad boy, but she is in a similar situation as I am so I understood where she was coming from better than Lex who's past was steeped in tragedy.
If you are a fan of second chances, dark and angsty romances you should check out Changing the Game by Ember Leigh.
Let me preface that I'm not really a huge mma/ fighting trope fan, because the men tend to be too... over the top alpha, and if you've been around my reviews for a while you know I'm not a big fan of that. I went out on a limb reading Changing the Game. If that is your cup of tea, you will probably love this story much more than I did.
The entire story is rooted in a dark past, very opposites attract with the good girl and bad boy. The story bounces around in timeline from past to present day, the story is filled with secrets, and twists. I was honestly conflicted on how I felt about Lex, he seemed like he hadn't gotten his life together, but he was also kind of petty and immature to me. I wanted to love him, I mean he's a sexy beast of a man, but he just didn't do it for me.
Now Lila on the other hand, I got her. Although I can't say that I've ever fallen for the bad boy, but she is in a similar situation as I am so I understood where she was coming from better than Lex who's past was steeped in tragedy.
If you are a fan of second chances, dark and angsty romances you should check out Changing the Game by Ember Leigh.
January 24, 2020
Lex and Lila had a tumultuous relationship that ended with Lila running five years ago. Since then Lex has gotten his life back on track and Lila has found a career she loves. Neither were expecting to run into each other or for the feelings to hit them so hard when they did. Although they have moved on from their past relationship they never truly let go of the love thet had for one another. Will this be their second chance or will fear and resentment keep them from trying again?
Lex has a past he is not proud of and soon he is once again being pulled back into old ways in order to protect Lila. Lila has a secret she is keeping from Lex and she fears when he learns the truth he won't want her in his life. Secrets and misunderstandings come in the way of their new formed bond and soon ot all comes to a head with dire consequences.
These two have their work cut out for them in order to finally get their hea but it was a wonderful read for a great couple. I can not wait to read the next in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lex has a past he is not proud of and soon he is once again being pulled back into old ways in order to protect Lila. Lila has a secret she is keeping from Lex and she fears when he learns the truth he won't want her in his life. Secrets and misunderstandings come in the way of their new formed bond and soon ot all comes to a head with dire consequences.
These two have their work cut out for them in order to finally get their hea but it was a wonderful read for a great couple. I can not wait to read the next in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 29, 2025
Lila and Lex—she’s an ER nurse; he’s a trainer and MMA fighter at an elite gym in LA. Five years prior, they were a couple, but she left because he was doing coke and using steroids while fighting for an underground gang fight ring. When they reconnected, the flame still burned strong between them, but she was afraid of trusting her heart to him again, plus she had a son whose father happened to be Lex. Then he gets contacted by the gang again, and he refuses to fight for them until they threaten her. So he fights. Until he figures out the only way to get out is to lose a fight and hope and pray that he doesn’t get killed. It happens and he arrives, though it takes a really long time for him to heal. In the meantime, he gets to know his son and cement his relationship with Lila. Overall, the story flows well, though there are a few situations that seem unrealistic. Still, it’s hard to read and not be on team Lila/Lex/Lane.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2019
Beautiful fast paced second chance story. New characters meet old both for the characters and the readers. Amara and Travis remain supporting characters for Led and Lilas second chance.
Lex has made his way and left his old life of addiction, street fighting and gangs behind including much to his dismay the love of his life...Lila who walked out on him when he was out of control. He's never been able to find her even when he tried, so he gave up, changed with the help of Travis and is finally finding fame and contentment. Fate however is about to intervene and bring Lila back
Lila has tried to forget Lexington but when she's asked to come to a filming of a new show held at Holt's gym he walks right back into her life.
Emotionally gripping, the story has you on the edge of your seat wondering if the couple will ever find much needed happiness...not a story for the fainthearted
Lex has made his way and left his old life of addiction, street fighting and gangs behind including much to his dismay the love of his life...Lila who walked out on him when he was out of control. He's never been able to find her even when he tried, so he gave up, changed with the help of Travis and is finally finding fame and contentment. Fate however is about to intervene and bring Lila back
Lila has tried to forget Lexington but when she's asked to come to a filming of a new show held at Holt's gym he walks right back into her life.
Emotionally gripping, the story has you on the edge of your seat wondering if the couple will ever find much needed happiness...not a story for the fainthearted
April 23, 2019
This is the second book in The Breaking series and it is a great addition to the series in the form of a second chance. In this book we get to know Lex and his past, along with his present and fingers crossed his future which contains the only woman he has ever loved and regretted letting go, Lila. Five years ago, Lila made the decision to break things off with Lex and walk away as she didn't want to have the future that she initially seem with him at the time. She needed to break free and go off on her own. But now she is back and Lex is different and he wants another chance. This is a really good story on how Lex and Lila plow through the past in order to have a future. I did not read book one first, but I have purchased it to catch up and will be ready for the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 23, 2019
Lex is an under ground fighter for a gang. He loves the fighting and the drugs and everything that comes with the under ground life but he also loves Lila. She is his everything and the chemistry they have is crazy hot and sexy as hell but Lila is tired of the drugs, fights and other crap that comes with loving Lex so she leaves him.
Fast forward five years and Lex has cleaned himself up and has his life all together except for the one who got away Lila. Fate is a b@#ch they say and the two of them meet up with each other again and Lila can't help wanting Lex even more than she did before. Lex sets out to show Lila he has changed and everything is going great until their past comes back to haunt them and changes everything Lex has worked so hard to get.
Fast forward five years and Lex has cleaned himself up and has his life all together except for the one who got away Lila. Fate is a b@#ch they say and the two of them meet up with each other again and Lila can't help wanting Lex even more than she did before. Lex sets out to show Lila he has changed and everything is going great until their past comes back to haunt them and changes everything Lex has worked so hard to get.
January 2, 2020
Ember Leigh lands another knock out with Changing the Game. I can't get enough of this series. Each book in this series is a gem that wins over my heart without question.
I've said this in my other reviews for her books but Ember Leigh has some damn good quality writing. I love her writing style so much. Everything about it draws me into the story and keeps my attention indefinitely. She really wows me with her ability to spin words.
I think that I enjoyed the plot of this book much more than the others in this series that I've read. This one was a bit more emotional and it really paid off in the end. This book really does evoke all the feels imaginable. The story kept me engrossed and I couldn't pull myself away. The flow was perfect and the storytelling beautiful.
I think that these characters really spoke to me more than those in the other books that I have read as well. I am not sure what it was about them that really grabbed me from the get-go but they were fabulous. It could be that they had a very emotional shared background and that their circumstances made all the emotion so much more powerful. I really loved their personalities. The love that Lex and Lila shared was very passionate. The reader could feel the love that these two had for each other.
Overall, this was another win from Ember Leigh. I am so thrilled with this series and I have loved each book that I have read so far. Leigh's writing really is impressive and I am such a huge fan of her books. I can't wait for the next one!
More reviews on my blog: Novel Nerd Faction
I've said this in my other reviews for her books but Ember Leigh has some damn good quality writing. I love her writing style so much. Everything about it draws me into the story and keeps my attention indefinitely. She really wows me with her ability to spin words.
I think that I enjoyed the plot of this book much more than the others in this series that I've read. This one was a bit more emotional and it really paid off in the end. This book really does evoke all the feels imaginable. The story kept me engrossed and I couldn't pull myself away. The flow was perfect and the storytelling beautiful.
I think that these characters really spoke to me more than those in the other books that I have read as well. I am not sure what it was about them that really grabbed me from the get-go but they were fabulous. It could be that they had a very emotional shared background and that their circumstances made all the emotion so much more powerful. I really loved their personalities. The love that Lex and Lila shared was very passionate. The reader could feel the love that these two had for each other.
Overall, this was another win from Ember Leigh. I am so thrilled with this series and I have loved each book that I have read so far. Leigh's writing really is impressive and I am such a huge fan of her books. I can't wait for the next one!
More reviews on my blog: Novel Nerd Faction
October 22, 2018
Lex has almost everything he's ever wanted except for Lila. The one that left, the one that he made leave because he wouldn't change. He liked his life the way that it was...until she walked away. That opened his eyes in ways that her staying never could have done.
When he sees her again the spark is still there between them. He's clean now and wants to prove to her that he's got his poop in a group. He just needs time to show her all the ways that he's changed. That he's the man for her, he always has been but he got lost along the way. He'd do anything to have her back in his life for good but there's more going on than he realizes.
When his past comes back to haunt him he feels that he has no choice but to do what he thinks is right. Is it right for them? Is he going to kill all the trust that is starting to build between these two? Is she going to drop a bomb on him to change everything that he's believed all these years?
I truly enjoyed this book and can't wait to see the next one!
When he sees her again the spark is still there between them. He's clean now and wants to prove to her that he's got his poop in a group. He just needs time to show her all the ways that he's changed. That he's the man for her, he always has been but he got lost along the way. He'd do anything to have her back in his life for good but there's more going on than he realizes.
When his past comes back to haunt him he feels that he has no choice but to do what he thinks is right. Is it right for them? Is he going to kill all the trust that is starting to build between these two? Is she going to drop a bomb on him to change everything that he's believed all these years?
I truly enjoyed this book and can't wait to see the next one!
October 22, 2018
4 Stars
Lila and Lex have a complicated history. They had a passion and intense love that wasn’t strong enough to help Lex overcome his demons. Now they cross paths five years later and life has changed for them both. Lex is living s successful life, a clean life. Lila works hard but has her own secret to keep from Lex, but she can deny the pull he still has on her. As they get closer the past rears it’s ugly head and we see two people struggling to be their best selves. You will be turning pages as quickly as you can to find out how Lex and Lila will get their happily ever after.
Cara - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
Lila and Lex have a complicated history. They had a passion and intense love that wasn’t strong enough to help Lex overcome his demons. Now they cross paths five years later and life has changed for them both. Lex is living s successful life, a clean life. Lila works hard but has her own secret to keep from Lex, but she can deny the pull he still has on her. As they get closer the past rears it’s ugly head and we see two people struggling to be their best selves. You will be turning pages as quickly as you can to find out how Lex and Lila will get their happily ever after.
Cara - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
October 25, 2018
Changing the game was a good book. While this book is the second book in the series it can be read as a standalone. Lex and Lila had an intense connection. I enjoyed the mystery and the darkness in the story. Their connection was strong even when they first see each other after 5 years of being apart. I always enjoy a second chance romance and I especially loveeee a bad boy fighter and Lex was alllll bad boy! My only issue with the story was that it felt a little rushed. I would’ve liked to see Lex and have a more developed character before Lila came into the picture again. But all in all this was a good read!
-J
-J
October 25, 2018
It’s been five years since Lex lost the only woman he has ever loved. Lila wasn’t prepared to let his lifestyle drag her down into the abyss with him and she needed to think of her future even if it meant breaking her heart and leaving him.
When they meet again the feelings between them are stronger than ever. He is no longer the same man she left, and he wants a second chance, but she has even more reasons to be careful about getting involved with him again. Will they be able to overcome both Lila’s secret and the re-emergence of his past?
I really enjoyed these two characters together and look forward to the next book in the series.
When they meet again the feelings between them are stronger than ever. He is no longer the same man she left, and he wants a second chance, but she has even more reasons to be careful about getting involved with him again. Will they be able to overcome both Lila’s secret and the re-emergence of his past?
I really enjoyed these two characters together and look forward to the next book in the series.
November 17, 2018
Changing the Game is definitely a story based on the darker side of life, so if you are averse to this being thrust in your face, then this may not be the book for you. I however enjoy an author who is unafraid to delve into the seedier side of this world and bring forth the real struggles and adversities that are often part of everyday life.
Lex and Lila’s story is a second chance romance, but it is also dark and emotional with many complex aspects to navigate throughout. One thing that did take some serious concentration was the constant shift from each person’s POV. Overall, this is a good story with plenty of angst, grit and heart-wrenching moments too.
Lex and Lila’s story is a second chance romance, but it is also dark and emotional with many complex aspects to navigate throughout. One thing that did take some serious concentration was the constant shift from each person’s POV. Overall, this is a good story with plenty of angst, grit and heart-wrenching moments too.
January 3, 2019
Lila and Lex have such a complicated history but a second chance when they have grown up so much could be just what they need, except there are a few roadblocks. I hate that she kept the secret for so long from Lex. The cop ex-boyfriend is creepy and needs to learn a lesson on how to treat ladies. When he gets pulled back into the underground fighting and thinks he can handle everything on his own well things go straight downhill from there. Just wish he would have told his fiends why was going on and asked for some help. Men!
Thanks to netgalley.com and the publisher for a copy of this book.
Thanks to netgalley.com and the publisher for a copy of this book.
September 7, 2019
This rating is KILLING me because I want it to be higher, this was a great book but I felt like it wasn’t finished at the end. It didn’t feel like a HEA...it felt rushed and forced at the end.
I loved the characters both Lex and Lila. They were great...it’s bugging me that I can’t for the life of me place what is holding this rating back for me other than the ending but there was something else, I just can’t figure out what is holding me back from a higher rating.
Anywho I did actually really like this one, it had my emotions all over the place and I love that it had that effect on me. I do highly recommend reading this book as well as this series because it’s been great so far.
I loved the characters both Lex and Lila. They were great...it’s bugging me that I can’t for the life of me place what is holding this rating back for me other than the ending but there was something else, I just can’t figure out what is holding me back from a higher rating.
Anywho I did actually really like this one, it had my emotions all over the place and I love that it had that effect on me. I do highly recommend reading this book as well as this series because it’s been great so far.
October 25, 2018
I received an ARC of this book in return for my honest opinion. I really liked the idea for the book. While enjoy a good second chance romance, I need a little more in the beginning. I feel like the way they left each other it shouldn’t have been so cordial when they met again. I kind of enjoy a little bitterness, it shows the true heartache there. Other then that I liked the book. For me sometimes I feel like I’d rather only see the heroine’s POV so I can’t know exactly how he feels. I like to think it’s more of a challenge.
October 27, 2018
Riveting, edge of your seat!
Lex and Lila had the super cute start to their story, he needed help in school and she was the tutor... He had to fight for her attention and for her to finally give in to him and be with him. They fell in love and because of that, she had to leave him as that was the as the only way she could truly help him and save him...
5 years later, they end up seeing each other again. Their chemistry stronger than ever. Did the 5 years apart save Lex? Is Lila willing to risk everything for him again? Except now, it's more than just her involved...
Enjoy!!
Lex and Lila had the super cute start to their story, he needed help in school and she was the tutor... He had to fight for her attention and for her to finally give in to him and be with him. They fell in love and because of that, she had to leave him as that was the as the only way she could truly help him and save him...
5 years later, they end up seeing each other again. Their chemistry stronger than ever. Did the 5 years apart save Lex? Is Lila willing to risk everything for him again? Except now, it's more than just her involved...
Enjoy!!
February 1, 2020
Lex and Lila are the stars of this well written dark/2nd chance love story.
It shows what we don't really know about...the underground. So it's got the violence and drugs but it's also emotional and real. Just because love isn't always black and white we sometimes are struck in the gray. Fight it all they want but fate gave them another shot because they definitely needed each other.
Loved the plot and getting to know these characters. I received an ARC for an honest and voluntarily review.
It shows what we don't really know about...the underground. So it's got the violence and drugs but it's also emotional and real. Just because love isn't always black and white we sometimes are struck in the gray. Fight it all they want but fate gave them another shot because they definitely needed each other.
Loved the plot and getting to know these characters. I received an ARC for an honest and voluntarily review.
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