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Pounding Hearts #5

Avenging Angel

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Once I was on top of the world. I had the title, fame, and respect.

Then everything came crashing down.

I lost my title and my best friend.

Unable to cope, I fell into the bottle and never wanted to come out.

Until Bree walked into my life with her gorgeous eyes and kissable lips.

She lights a fire inside me I haven't felt in months.

She's awoken the beast that refuses to bow down and takes what he wants.

With her in my sights, I'm f*cking unstoppable.

I'm going to get my title back, kick some ass, and win the girl.

302 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2020

233 people are currently reading
320 people want to read

About the author

Izzy Sweet

33 books1,198 followers

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5 stars
257 (57%)
4 stars
127 (28%)
3 stars
44 (9%)
2 stars
14 (3%)
1 star
5 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
Profile Image for Sandy.
1,214 reviews4 followers
January 21, 2020
Powerful

This is a pretty powerful story. It’s told with quite a bit of humor that helps lessen the angst. Bree and Emmett have a great story and great instant chemistry.
Profile Image for Aimee Shelton.
8 reviews
January 21, 2020
Izzy and Sean have done it again! This amazing duo has wrote another book that sucked me in and wouldn't let go until the final page.

Emmett "The Angel" has suffered some major losses recently. He was drowning himself in a bottle to escape but with the "help" of friends he promised one sober day. Until he sees Bree for the first time and reconnects with Casey.

Bree has had a hard few years dealing with a manipulative father that she recently reconnected with. She is looking to escape when she accepts a job for the summer working for her new step brother, Chase, at his gym. She is confronted at the gym by her abusive ex-boyfriend and is saved by Casey. Their instant connection was so cute and adorable I just loved reading their scenes together.

Casey is the 12 year old son of Emmett's best friend / manager who was recently killed in a car accident. He is going through a hard time dealing with the loss of his father. He is sent to live with Emmett by his grandmother, who is hoping that they can help each other grieve.

With the help of the guys at the gym, Bree and Casey, Emmett is fighting his way back from his dark place and going for the ultimate rematch.
As expected there is some thing that comes between the couple but with the hard work they found their way back to each other and get their happily ever after.
Whether or not you have read any of the other Pounding Heart books this one is a must-read.
Profile Image for Fabiola Cadet.
2,068 reviews7 followers
January 25, 2020
#IzzySweetAndSeanMoriarty #AvengingAngel
 
Oh my word the dynamic duo did it again with this one. I've always wanted Emmet's story and now I've Finally gotten it. I can't wait to see what else these two have in store for me next.
Profile Image for Angi.
118 reviews
January 21, 2020
Fate can be a funny thing. It can send you to the depths of despair or the heights of joy.

Emmett has found himself in the depths after a nasty loss in the ring followed closely by a nasty loss of another kind. He's not sure he's ever going to come out, or if he even wants to. But as chosen families often do, his friends step in to drag him back into the light. That's just the beginning of his life changing.

Bree discovers her boyfriend in bed with another woman. In her anger and hurt she heads home to where every girl with a good one goes when needing comfort ... her mom. Her step-brother offers her a job in his gym, which leads to a meeting of souls.

Emmett and Bree each have secrets and scars they carry. But they also have an undeniable connection that changes both their worlds. There are bumps and bruises along the way. They each have to make decisions that not only affect themselves but each other and someone they love.

Will they find their happy ending? Well I'm not going to just TELL you that ... go read the book and find out.

It's a quick read because it's so engaging you will NEED to know how it ends.

The writing is very well done with characters who are so very very human you can't help but love them. The plot moves along at a great pace and keeps you reading. And there are plenty of laugh out loud moments to go along with the tension, to make this a truly captivating work.
Profile Image for Jessica.
2,332 reviews23 followers
January 20, 2020
This book is set in the Pounding Hearts universe where the men are typically involved in the MMA scene. The main characters, Emmet, Casey and Bree are all going through some rough times. Emmet is dealing with a major loss in his career and also the loss of his best friend, Tommy who happens to be Casey’s only surviving parent. Bree is stuck in a situation where she is beholden to her powerful father for everything and he controls her life, right down to who she dates. When she catches her boyfriend cheating with her best friend, she hightails it to her mother’s house which happens to be in the same town that Emmet’s gym is. They meet and things start rolling. I won’t put any more spoilers out there, other than this book tears at the heart strings, especially in the beginning.
I really enjoyed reading this one, I haven’t read the series in a while, so I was remembering characters as they were introduced. You do not need to read the series in order, or any of the other books at all to make sense of this one. It was written very well (as always by this author team) and I devoured it within a day. There were 10 spots with grammatical issues, but overall it didn't detract from the story.
I received an ARC in exchange for my unbiased and honest opinion.
Profile Image for Nancy Reads Romance.
1,106 reviews35 followers
January 27, 2020
Emmett Bailey is a titled fighter who gets a major injury and falls from grace. To add insult to injury, his best friend, and manager, dies. Emmett has hit rock bottom when his friends from the gym decide enough is enough. They drag him back to the gym to begin training for a rematch. This is where Emmett meets Bree and he's captivated by her. Bree is running from a terrible situation and a bad break up. She caught her boyfriend in bed with her best friend. Bree runs hours away to her mom's house in Nevada. Bree's stepbrother owns a gym where MMA fighters train. They need front desk help and Bree is happy to fill the position. Bree is fascinated by Emmett. This is where life gets complicated... Bree's father is making demands and she is threatened by her exboyfriend. Emmett is training for a rematch and wants to protect Bree. Will their relationship be more than a steamy love affair? Can Emmett chase Bree's demons away?

I have a weakness for MMA books, so I was delighted to read Avenging Angel! My favorite trope is "alpha male rescues female in peril." This romance ticked all of the boxes and kept me turning pages late into the night. I loved their "family" at the gym and revisiting prior characters in the Pounding Hearts series. Avenging Angel was a great, steamy read. 4 stars
Profile Image for ereader26.
221 reviews2 followers
January 24, 2020
I've been patiently waiting for this fantastic pair of authors to release something new, and oh boy did they not disappoint. This book was just incredibly well written. It was so great I could not put it down until I finished it, and I went to work on 4 hours of sleep, but it was totally worth it. Emmet has gone through some hard losses recently and turned to drink as a way to deal with his problem. When he gets a wakeup call, he realizes how much Casey, his best friend's son, really needs him. So, Emmet takes Casey under his wing and tries to be there and take care of him like his friend would have wanted. Bree is trying to run from her own problems and is working at the gym where Emmet trains. There is an instant attraction from the moment they see each, and Emmet will stop at nothing to get Bree and Casey permanently in his life, but will things go smoothly? I am not going to spoil anything, but I can only say that this book is A MUST READ. Take my word for it; you will not be disappointed. Now, I will just wait until the next release, which I know will be just as good.
Profile Image for Beth  Buswell.
731 reviews6 followers
January 21, 2020
This book..... THIS.BOOK. I could not turn the pages fast enough. I was torn between wanting devour this book and pacing myself. Devouring won. I went through the emotional ringer with this book. I think that I got a good about midsection workout from how much my gut clenched. This book also did have a good mix of funny to lighten the mood. Emmett hit his lowest point before Aubrey walked into his life. Aubrey was running from a awful situation at home. Two broken people found a safe harbor in each other. Together they both found the strength to get back up again. The insta lust/love, I felt the tingles, So Hot! But my favorite character in this book by far was Casey. That kid was the comic relief and the grounding everyone needed. He gave Emmett something else to fight for, to give his life purpose outside the ring.
Profile Image for Laywah Ang.
78 reviews
January 24, 2020
I love this series from my favourite writers and the latest installment has all the trademarks its known for : great relatable characters and witty humour in a very real language.

I love that the hero Emmet starts out with a beer gut – how many romances do that ? - and his path back to his fighting fitness is inspiring. The heroines in this series usually begin in emotially disadvantaged situations ,being manipulated by those who are supposed to protect them. Their journey to owning their personal power is so fun to read! That being said - have to say Bree wasn't my fave. Came on a little wussy in the beginning but she did redeem herself. And the gang from the other books are back – Bret, Chase, Mindy etc. Finally when does Dale get to tell his story? Love him!
Avenging Angel is a guaranteed good time!
183 reviews1 follower
January 25, 2020
At first everything seemed to go the wrong way for Emmett, Casey and Bree. Bree isn’t letting anyone in, she’s burying her head in the sand, so much so, she almost loses everything. I honestly wished she would have told Emmett, or at least her mom what all was going on with her dad. Because her life could have had a horrible ending. Emmett was able to finally pull himself up because of Casey, he focused on being there for him, giving him a family and no longer giving into the despair of what all he lost, because Casey lost everything too. I absolutely love the fighting spirit of both Emmett and Casey, they are so sweet, loyal and awesome. When Casey grows up I hope we get his book. Loved seeing the couples from previous books.
Profile Image for Tammy L..
11 reviews
January 21, 2020
LOVED! Emmett is a character everyone can love. Alpha, gritty, honest, and real. Once you are in his circle you Are there to stay. He recently lost a fight and a friend and has fallen hard. Bree is trying to figure herself out and dig out of a horrible relationship. These two have amazing chemistry. They instantly feel connected- both having lives that are currently a disaster. I always love a good alpha that can show his dominating side but is also comfortable enough in his own skin that he can express his feelings. You will love this story and i strongly recommend! I could not put the book down!
Profile Image for Cindy Montgomery.
177 reviews3 followers
January 26, 2020
Out of darkness into the light

Emmett is in a dark place and is at rock bottom. His friends drag him back into the gym to give him something to focus on. Bree is running from a bad relationship and gets help from Chase her stepbrother. Emmett and Bree are drawn to each other. Loved this story as the characters have much to overcome on their journey to a loving relationship. This is a wonderful addition to the Pounding Heart series by two very talented writers. It’s a great read about two lost souls surrounded by darkness, coming together to find the light. Can’t wait to read more.
Profile Image for Danielle Marlowe.
2,060 reviews9 followers
January 24, 2020
Izzy Sweet and Sean Moriarty did a great job on Avenging Angel, it was a great story. The plot was strong, it was filled with many emotions, action and more. The story was written well. Emmett and Bree were strong characters, they went through a lot, their journey was a rollercoaster but they were made for each other, they were drawn to one another. Their connection was strong and the chemistry was sexy. They were great together. I enjoyed Bree and Emmett's story.
This was a great story, I enjoyed it. Thank you, Izzy Sweet and Sean Moriarty. Great work :)
Profile Image for Brenda Jewett.
29 reviews
January 25, 2020
I just finished Avenging Angel ❣️ OMGoodness. My emotions were all over the place. I cried, I had an anxiety moment, then cried a little more. What Emmett went through I’ve been there not the drinking myself into oblivion but the depression over my dad passing was 2 years of running on empty and not caring. You don’t realize how it effects others around you. This was outstanding, thank you Sean and Izzy for a fabulous read. Now to go back and reread. 😏 I definitely recommend reading this and the rest in this series.
12 reviews7 followers
January 26, 2020
This book. I have waited so long for this series to continue and this book did not disappoint! It gives you all of the heartwrenching feels. The one word that comes up this whole book for me is FATE. Emmett and Bree definitely disappoint! I loved their funny banter. If you are looking for a new series with new book of hot alpha mma fighting men and the women that bring them to their knees, then the Pounding Heart series is the perfect choice! Happy reading!

I recieved an Advanced Reader's Copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kim Gauger.
3,312 reviews6 followers
January 20, 2020
This book was amazing! It brought all the characters from the other books to give you a great story of overcoming your obstacles. This book had heart, soul and gave you the feels that you want in a romance. I laughed, I cried and I fell in love with Casey- his little behind stole my heart. I loved Emmett and the way he fought through everything and became the man he was at the end of the book. I loved this so much! A true five star that will leave you breathless at some points. LOVED IT!
Profile Image for Danielle Grimes-Oliveira.
530 reviews13 followers
January 21, 2020
Wonderful addition to the series

Such an amazing addition to the pounding hearts series. This book was so good! My heart seriously broke for Casey . He was Such a good kid with so much pain. I couldn't help but love Bree. She had such a big heart. Her and Emmett were perfect for each other. They both helped each other heal. It was so good seeing the other Pounding hearts characters again. I missed them so much
2,161 reviews14 followers
January 21, 2020
Ex world welterweight champion Emmett Bailey turned to alcohol to drown his sorrows until his friends turn up and tell him to man up and stop with the pity party. So Emmett goes back to the gym to train for an upcoming fight, which is where he meets the beautiful Bree. Emmett knows that Bree's his future but will her secrets stop them from having a HEA?

Avenging Angel is a heartbreaking, funny and steamy story that will suck you in
54 reviews1 follower
January 24, 2020
Another engrossing read in the MMA Pounding Hearts series. I've never read any of the others and it didn't affect me, other than me wanting to go back and download the rest of the series so I can read the back stories for some of the peripheral characters. It's a lot lighter than their "Keeping" series (which I have to admit I prefer the 'darker', 'take what I want' stories) but if you're looking for a lighter read with all the same steam and great plot then you're all set.
Profile Image for Michaela Zankl.
448 reviews3 followers
January 26, 2020
Izzy Sweet and Sean Moriarty once again deliver a powerful story that will leave you glued to the pages. I have waited for Emmett's story and was not disappointed. After multiple losses he findes himself in despair and in Bree his angel. They both carry scars and secrets but have this incredible connection to push through tough times together. Even though this book is a quick read it is just incredibly written. The plot is amazing and the characters are human. Captivating must read!
24 reviews
January 27, 2020
Angel and Bree have been hiding from their problems. Angel is dealing with loss and Bree is dealing with shame. When these two get together they forget about their pain. As Angel reawakens and accepts family and career responsibilities he also accepts that he needs to keep Bree in his life.

Another great addition to the Pounding hearts series. The gym, fighters and families are as lively as ever.
Profile Image for Mandy Mckee.
38 reviews1 follower
January 21, 2020
Don't take you eyes away from the storyline, each sentence is needed in this action pack emotional book.

Once again Izzy Sweet and Sean Moriarty have built upon their Pounding Hearts series with Emmitt and Brees story. With previous characters adding to the background. Two broken people brought together by 1 child.
25 reviews
January 22, 2020
My heart broke at the beginning for Emmett. So much so I had to put it down and walk away for 2 hours. I picked it back up and I am so glad I did! The tension and drama with Emmett, Bree, Casey and the rest of the crew was worth it.
I loved seeing all the guys again coming together to help a friend. Plus it was amazing to watch Bree blossom into her own person.
231 reviews
January 23, 2020
Absolutely a great read

I loved it and I am said to say a little doubtful at the start but boy was I glad I was wrong. Loved to see Emmett picking himself up. First I thought it was one of those were a girl tried to pick up a man from his self pity but I was greatly surprised with the direction and emotion of the story. Definitely one where you will want to keep as a reread!
65 reviews
January 24, 2020
I really loved this book. I have to say I started following this series a couple years ago and I’m so glad I did. Emmett and Bree’s story definitely lived up to the previous books. I don’t want to leave any spoilers but this is definitely worth the read I could not put it down once I started. I can’t wait to read more from the authors in the future.
Profile Image for Melissa Carnahan.
223 reviews
January 25, 2020
I followed all the fighters and their stories and Emmett's seemed to be the most heartbreaking. It was refreshing not to read about the struggles the characters have trying to regain their footing after they fell from the pedestal they were in. I loved the small glimpse I go into everyone and also the small tease epilogue. You two have done it again!
Profile Image for Jennifer.
77 reviews
January 31, 2020
Let down

I absolutely love this series but I found this one to be lacking something I can’t quite put my finger on. It seems like there was so much hype on the douche of a dad Bree has that when things unfold it’s a bit anticlimactic along with the asshole ex of hers. But all things worked out.
200 reviews3 followers
March 25, 2020
Loved it!

What a great read. I enjoyed Emmet and Bree's story. Two people really lost and not knowing who they are. They both face obstacles in their lives. In finding each other and coming face to face with the past. They find love and family. Izzy Sweet and Sean Moriarty gave us another great book.
1,164 reviews6 followers
August 28, 2021
Emmett & Bree

Loved Emmett and Casey, wasn't too thrilled with Bree. I think it was her wishy washy ways, had she been honest from the beginning or directed her anger to those who deserved it I might feel different about her. I guess it was her age that was the problem, didn't like her and couldn't connect with her character. I also loved Dale!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews

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