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Against the Cage #2
Passing His Guard
Listening Length: 12 hours and 12 minutes
Aiden “Disco Stick” Kruze walked away from it all—money, family, friends, and a successful career as a lawyer in Manhattan—to pursue his dream of being an MMA fighter. When a sexy private investigator shows up at Aiden’s gym, he mistakenly assumes she’s a cage-banging groupie.
Ryann is determined to haul Aiden back home. She’s desperate to claim the reward money that will pay off her father’s creditors before the man who killed her father comes to collect from her.
Aiden is done living his life under the microscope of being a senator’s son. He’s not going back to New York—ever—and there’s nothing this tenacious redhead can do about it. Or is there?
When the demons of Aiden’s past catch up with him, he realizes the lies, deception, and betrayal run deeper than he ever imagined. Aiden must put his career and his life on the line to save the woman who’s stolen his heart.
Aiden “Disco Stick” Kruze walked away from it all—money, family, friends, and a successful career as a lawyer in Manhattan—to pursue his dream of being an MMA fighter. When a sexy private investigator shows up at Aiden’s gym, he mistakenly assumes she’s a cage-banging groupie.
Ryann is determined to haul Aiden back home. She’s desperate to claim the reward money that will pay off her father’s creditors before the man who killed her father comes to collect from her.
Aiden is done living his life under the microscope of being a senator’s son. He’s not going back to New York—ever—and there’s nothing this tenacious redhead can do about it. Or is there?
When the demons of Aiden’s past catch up with him, he realizes the lies, deception, and betrayal run deeper than he ever imagined. Aiden must put his career and his life on the line to save the woman who’s stolen his heart.
Audible Audio
First published August 25, 2015
217 people are currently reading
1115 people want to read
About the author
Melynda Price
19 books609 followersMelynda Price is a bestselling and award-winning author of contemporary romance. Her Against the Cage series has finaled in many awards such as the RONE, USA Today BBA, Golden Quill, National Readers’ Choice, and New England Readers’ Choice, and won the 2017 Write Touch award.
What Price enjoys most about writing is the chance to make her readers fall in love, over and over again. She cites the greatest challenge of writing is making the unbelievable believable, while taking her characters to the limit with stories full of passion and unique twists and turns. Salting stories with undertones of history whenever possible, Price adds immeasurable depth to her well-crafted books. She currently lives in Northern Minnesota with her husband and two children where she has plenty of snow-filled days to curl up in front of the fireplace with her Chihuahua and a hot cup of coffee to write.
What Price enjoys most about writing is the chance to make her readers fall in love, over and over again. She cites the greatest challenge of writing is making the unbelievable believable, while taking her characters to the limit with stories full of passion and unique twists and turns. Salting stories with undertones of history whenever possible, Price adds immeasurable depth to her well-crafted books. She currently lives in Northern Minnesota with her husband and two children where she has plenty of snow-filled days to curl up in front of the fireplace with her Chihuahua and a hot cup of coffee to write.
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May 25, 2017
4 Take a ride on Disco Stick Stars
*Spoilers*
"Baby, I've got so much testosterone pumping through my system right now, all I can think about is working it out on you."
"Holy hell, you try my patience. Right now I can't decide what I want to do more, throttle you or fuck you."
Passing His Guard is the 2nd book in the Against the Cage series, but it can be read as a stand alone as I didn't read the first book, and had no problems following this one. This is the first book I have read by Melynda Price and I really enjoyed it. Enjoyed it enough that I am thinking of going back and reading the first one just to have a little more time in this world.
"That's what I'm trying to do, but you're clam-jamming me." He busted out laughing, which had not been what she was going for-at all. "I'm what?" he asked incredulously. "Clam-jamming me. It's the female version of cock-blocking,"
What this book is about
Ryann Andrews is in big trouble. The kind that could cost her, her life. A month ago her father was murdered in a hit and run, and Ryann knows who killed him. The Mob boss took him out because he owned him a ton of money. Now that mob boss is after Ryann for her father's debt. She has 2 weeks to pay the 75,000 or else! Desperate for money Ryann takes on the job of finding the son of Senator Kruze and bringing him home. When Ryann finds Aiden Kruze she can't believe it's the same guy. He is not the good looking, suit wearing Lawyer in the photo she was given. Standing before her is a sexy, cocky, kick ass MMA fighter all tatted up and pierced. Aiden “Disco Stick” Kruze has no intentions of going back home to his old life, but Ryann doesn't care what he wants or how sexy he is, she is getting him home and collecting that money no matter what she has to do!
Aiden:
"You touch her again and I'll fucking kill you."
Aiden is all kinds of yummy! He is fun, sweet, sexy, totally kick ass, and very smart. Aiden is a multifaceted character. He tends to hide the real him behind his alter ego "Disco Stick" the womanizing MMA fighter. Aiden feels like people and women only want to be around him because of his fame, Which makes him feel used and gives him a vulnerability that is endearing. Aiden tends to put his foot in his mouth a lot when it comes to Ryann, jumping to wrong conclusions and getting himself in trouble. I love how protective he is with Ryann. Aiden makes a perfect swoon worthy Hero.
"Rohypnol..." Her whispered response was spoken so softly, he barely heard her. "Are you serious? You fucking roofied me?" "Well, when you say it like that, you make it sound so bad."
"Damn, baby girl, that was hot. You know this silver tongue is good for more than just talking. Why don't you pull over and unlock these cuffs and I'll be more than happy to show you. Give me thirty seconds between those sweet thighs of yours and I'll make you come so hard-"
Ryann:
"I can take it, Aiden. I promise you won't break me."
Ryann is a very likeable heroine. She has a very realistic and down to earth personality. She had the perfect balance of independence and sass without coming across as bitchy. She has had a lot thrown at her and she is still fighting. She is brave, strong and sweet. Ryann is a good match for Aiden because she sees and likes the real him and not "Disco"
"I told her you had crabs." Aiden inhaled, choking on the fire searing a path into his lungs and sending him into a coughing fit. Mother. Fuck. "You did what?" he wheezed. The corner of Ryann's mouth twitched, and he swore to God, he'd never been more close to throttling a woman in his life. " I. Told. Her. You. Had. Crabs."
"Please....... he gave me trail mix." "That wasn't all he wanted to give you." "You're being ridiculous," she chided. "And you're being naive if you thing that guy didn't want to fuck your brains out." She laughed. She actually laughed at him. "You're right, Aiden. Nothing says 'I want to fuck your brains out' like a bag of trail mix."
"Fuck, Ryann... I'd fight every day if it meant coming home to this."
Aiden and Ryann have some massive sexual tension going on in this book. By the time they come together it was explosive, wild, and hot. I love them as a couple and was totally invested in their relationship. I loved the story plot. I found it suspenseful and thrilling. There are a few curveballs thrown in there that I didn't see coming. Nikko OMG Nikko!!! I want me some Nikko. Please Melynda Price Please write Nikko's story. I fell in love with Aiden's friend Nikko he was such a great character. The only problem I had with this book was there was a little to much internal monologue. Not enough to make it boring or anything just enough to slow the book down a bit. I am a sucker for a sweet epilogue and this book gave me one that had me feeling all warm and fuzzy. I thought this was an awesome and exciting read with lovable characters, scary realistic bad guys, and a delightful ending. I will definitely be reading more books from this author especially if she gives Nikko his own book!!!!!
"Have you noticed he's been acting different these past few days?" she pressed. "Of course I've noticed, but you gotta understand, Gingersnap, we're guys. This isn't the Vagina Monologues. We don't talk about our feelings."
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
*Spoilers*
"Baby, I've got so much testosterone pumping through my system right now, all I can think about is working it out on you."
"Holy hell, you try my patience. Right now I can't decide what I want to do more, throttle you or fuck you."
Passing His Guard is the 2nd book in the Against the Cage series, but it can be read as a stand alone as I didn't read the first book, and had no problems following this one. This is the first book I have read by Melynda Price and I really enjoyed it. Enjoyed it enough that I am thinking of going back and reading the first one just to have a little more time in this world.
"That's what I'm trying to do, but you're clam-jamming me." He busted out laughing, which had not been what she was going for-at all. "I'm what?" he asked incredulously. "Clam-jamming me. It's the female version of cock-blocking,"
What this book is about
Ryann Andrews is in big trouble. The kind that could cost her, her life. A month ago her father was murdered in a hit and run, and Ryann knows who killed him. The Mob boss took him out because he owned him a ton of money. Now that mob boss is after Ryann for her father's debt. She has 2 weeks to pay the 75,000 or else! Desperate for money Ryann takes on the job of finding the son of Senator Kruze and bringing him home. When Ryann finds Aiden Kruze she can't believe it's the same guy. He is not the good looking, suit wearing Lawyer in the photo she was given. Standing before her is a sexy, cocky, kick ass MMA fighter all tatted up and pierced. Aiden “Disco Stick” Kruze has no intentions of going back home to his old life, but Ryann doesn't care what he wants or how sexy he is, she is getting him home and collecting that money no matter what she has to do!
Aiden:
"You touch her again and I'll fucking kill you."
Aiden is all kinds of yummy! He is fun, sweet, sexy, totally kick ass, and very smart. Aiden is a multifaceted character. He tends to hide the real him behind his alter ego "Disco Stick" the womanizing MMA fighter. Aiden feels like people and women only want to be around him because of his fame, Which makes him feel used and gives him a vulnerability that is endearing. Aiden tends to put his foot in his mouth a lot when it comes to Ryann, jumping to wrong conclusions and getting himself in trouble. I love how protective he is with Ryann. Aiden makes a perfect swoon worthy Hero.
"Rohypnol..." Her whispered response was spoken so softly, he barely heard her. "Are you serious? You fucking roofied me?" "Well, when you say it like that, you make it sound so bad."
"Damn, baby girl, that was hot. You know this silver tongue is good for more than just talking. Why don't you pull over and unlock these cuffs and I'll be more than happy to show you. Give me thirty seconds between those sweet thighs of yours and I'll make you come so hard-"
Ryann:
"I can take it, Aiden. I promise you won't break me."
Ryann is a very likeable heroine. She has a very realistic and down to earth personality. She had the perfect balance of independence and sass without coming across as bitchy. She has had a lot thrown at her and she is still fighting. She is brave, strong and sweet. Ryann is a good match for Aiden because she sees and likes the real him and not "Disco"
"I told her you had crabs." Aiden inhaled, choking on the fire searing a path into his lungs and sending him into a coughing fit. Mother. Fuck. "You did what?" he wheezed. The corner of Ryann's mouth twitched, and he swore to God, he'd never been more close to throttling a woman in his life. " I. Told. Her. You. Had. Crabs."
"Please....... he gave me trail mix." "That wasn't all he wanted to give you." "You're being ridiculous," she chided. "And you're being naive if you thing that guy didn't want to fuck your brains out." She laughed. She actually laughed at him. "You're right, Aiden. Nothing says 'I want to fuck your brains out' like a bag of trail mix."
"Fuck, Ryann... I'd fight every day if it meant coming home to this."
Aiden and Ryann have some massive sexual tension going on in this book. By the time they come together it was explosive, wild, and hot. I love them as a couple and was totally invested in their relationship. I loved the story plot. I found it suspenseful and thrilling. There are a few curveballs thrown in there that I didn't see coming. Nikko OMG Nikko!!! I want me some Nikko. Please Melynda Price Please write Nikko's story. I fell in love with Aiden's friend Nikko he was such a great character. The only problem I had with this book was there was a little to much internal monologue. Not enough to make it boring or anything just enough to slow the book down a bit. I am a sucker for a sweet epilogue and this book gave me one that had me feeling all warm and fuzzy. I thought this was an awesome and exciting read with lovable characters, scary realistic bad guys, and a delightful ending. I will definitely be reading more books from this author especially if she gives Nikko his own book!!!!!
"Have you noticed he's been acting different these past few days?" she pressed. "Of course I've noticed, but you gotta understand, Gingersnap, we're guys. This isn't the Vagina Monologues. We don't talk about our feelings."
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
December 27, 2019
Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK
4 'Avocado Squeezing' Stars
Aiden 'Disco Stick' Kruze left his life in New York to pursue his dream of becoming a MMA fighting. He moves across the country to Las Vegas to train and leaves everything to do with his old life behind. But his past isn't going to let him go so easily and he can't keep running from it.
Ryann Andrews had her life take a drastic turn last month when her father was killed. Soon after his death a notorious mobster started contacting Ryann to pay her fathers debts. Desperate for money she takes the job of finding the Senators son and getting him back to New York using any means necessary. But she wasn't prepared for Aiden or the journey they end up on.
This wasn't your typical MMA book - it was so much more. Fighting, heat, and mobsters, oh my! I loved Aiden and he was so friggin' sexy I could just jump him. He completely reinvented himself when he moved to Vegas and not only wanted to follow his dreams, but he wanted to be a better person than he was in New York. It was like seeing two different people from when we met him in the beginning of the book to how he was closer to the end, and I loved all of it.
Ryann was a great character and I really liked how she was so ballsy. She didn't give up or get scared easily, especially not when she was on a mission to accomplish something. I can't really describe her as tough but she was definitely brave and a really strong girl which I loved.
This book took a turn near the end that I wasn't really expecting, but I really enjoyed it. The story wasn't just about Ryann having to get Aiden to New York, it went on after they were both there. I really liked how the relationship between them developed farther at the end of the book and it made me like the story even more.
Bottom line, this book was an amazing read. It'e the second book book in the Against the Cage series but can be read as a standalone, though I suggest reading the first because it's a great read. I hope Nikko will get a book!
Amazon US * Amazon UK
4 'Avocado Squeezing' Stars
Aiden 'Disco Stick' Kruze left his life in New York to pursue his dream of becoming a MMA fighting. He moves across the country to Las Vegas to train and leaves everything to do with his old life behind. But his past isn't going to let him go so easily and he can't keep running from it.
Ryann Andrews had her life take a drastic turn last month when her father was killed. Soon after his death a notorious mobster started contacting Ryann to pay her fathers debts. Desperate for money she takes the job of finding the Senators son and getting him back to New York using any means necessary. But she wasn't prepared for Aiden or the journey they end up on.
This wasn't your typical MMA book - it was so much more. Fighting, heat, and mobsters, oh my! I loved Aiden and he was so friggin' sexy I could just jump him. He completely reinvented himself when he moved to Vegas and not only wanted to follow his dreams, but he wanted to be a better person than he was in New York. It was like seeing two different people from when we met him in the beginning of the book to how he was closer to the end, and I loved all of it.
Ryann was a great character and I really liked how she was so ballsy. She didn't give up or get scared easily, especially not when she was on a mission to accomplish something. I can't really describe her as tough but she was definitely brave and a really strong girl which I loved.
This book took a turn near the end that I wasn't really expecting, but I really enjoyed it. The story wasn't just about Ryann having to get Aiden to New York, it went on after they were both there. I really liked how the relationship between them developed farther at the end of the book and it made me like the story even more.
Bottom line, this book was an amazing read. It'e the second book book in the Against the Cage series but can be read as a standalone, though I suggest reading the first because it's a great read. I hope Nikko will get a book!
January 13, 2016
What's What
Ryann needs money to settle her dead dad's debt with the mob. In comes an offer to hunt down Aiden, a rich senator's son who ran away to become "Disco" the MMA fighter.
Disco meet Ryann. He's smitten and thinks that maybe she's not one of his usual "whores." When she asks to speak to him alone, he automatically assumes she's only after his shalong, determines she is a ho, & gets pissy before determining he still wants the (rhymes with pissy;)
Of course, once she tells him she's really there to drag him back to Mommy Dearest, the pissy turns to rage.
First 20%
The first 20% is honestly like being caught in a shit rainstorm of stuff that you either cringe at or IDGAF about. Examples?
1. He's a-okay with sticking his pecker in anything that moves, but yet mentally berates all these women as cage banging whores only after his disco stick.
2. He leaves bruises on Ryann when he throws her out in a fit of anger.
3. He talks about Katie, his friend's girl & who was the MC in book one, like she is the woman of his dreams - how hot she is, how sweet, how wonderful, how smart, on and on. It's weird,
4. The initial chapters take place at the same time events from book one happen. I liked book one, but it wasn't memorable enough for me to remember details from when I read it months ago. The author talking about the events like I should is frustrating. Plus, I don't really care to rehash the Easton & Katie story through Disco Aidan's POV.
Deliver Me From This Hell Thoust Has Trapeth Me Within
In...
While this...
Ryann decides drug & drag will be the only way to get Disco to NY.
^ Umhuh, okay. Great plan Ms. Professional PI.
Road trip. They call a truths after they get caught up in a robbery.
We now have 13 chapters, yes, 13 mfing chapters , of the most inane, repetitive, & assuming bullshit I believe I've ever read, most of which is expressed in inner monologue.
It goes something like this...
Him: she's so hot. She's just like all the others. I care about her. I can't care about her. She shouldn't care about me. How dare her not care about me. She's using me for my disco dick. I want to fuck her but it can't be anything more than fucking. I don't want her to use me as a fuck toy. Why doesnt she care about me. Omg she does care about me. Do I want her to care about me? Hell no cause I don't do relationships. Oh, fuck she's using me. I'm protective of her. I can't fuck her because I might care too much. No, I don't do relationships. Why doesn't she want a relationship. Omg she wants me. No, I can't let her care about me. She's lying to me. I'm an ass. Better this way. I want to fuck her. No, no I can't fuck her. Would it be so bad if she loved me. OMG I have to be an ass because she loves me. I want to fuck her. <<<< on and on and on and on for THIRTEEN CHAPTERS
Meanwhile, she is doing the exact same inner monologue shit and speaking out of both sides of her mouth. So we have double the fun... Yiiiiipppppie!
Those 13 chapters of hell have got to be the most infuriating, long, childish, wishy-washy, vapid, woe is me bullshit I've ever read.
Yippie They Arrive In NY
I actually have a moment where I think this might make a turn around to actually have a mfing plot beyond MMA style Shakespeare woe on a seesaw, and it does, but damn if we don't got right back to the bullshit from the 13 chapters of hell.
At least this time it's a fresh hell of trust and assumptions vs lust and assumptions.
In all honesty, the bad guy plot isn't half bad - mob, murder, embezzlement, bribes, dirty politics, family secrets, underground fights, kidnapping, etc. could've, would've, should've been good.
The problem is that so little time is devoted to the plot and so much time is devoted to filler scenes and inner monologues of her trying to decipher his feelings and vice versa that the plot gets absolutely swallowed whole by the whale of woe in the sea of fluff.
It's Over... Finally!!!!!!!!
This is one of those books where the initial 10% sets shit up for you, the MCs basically fight and argue over what's not said and what's assumed for the next 80% making asses of themselves, and the last 10% solves all the problems.
The last few pages were plucked like a stray brow hair you've somehow not seen growing for, oh, I don't know.. Forever.
As much thought as we had to listen to about him assuming she was using his cock and then him... There is little thought or certainty to anything romantically long-term until the very final pages, and then it's an OTT long-term that doesn't even hold true to what the author's portrayed in her character for the last 99% of the book. CTFO!
BTW: thanks for leaving the mama's involvement just fing dangling in the air....~ ~ ~
Bottom Line
I liked book one, but this one is just not good at all. It feels like the author had a couple of talking point sentences that she surrounded by nonsense and called it a day.
If you, too, have survived thishell book, this one's for you...
Ryann needs money to settle her dead dad's debt with the mob. In comes an offer to hunt down Aiden, a rich senator's son who ran away to become "Disco" the MMA fighter.
Disco meet Ryann. He's smitten and thinks that maybe she's not one of his usual "whores." When she asks to speak to him alone, he automatically assumes she's only after his shalong, determines she is a ho, & gets pissy before determining he still wants the (rhymes with pissy;)
Of course, once she tells him she's really there to drag him back to Mommy Dearest, the pissy turns to rage.
First 20%
The first 20% is honestly like being caught in a shit rainstorm of stuff that you either cringe at or IDGAF about. Examples?
1. He's a-okay with sticking his pecker in anything that moves, but yet mentally berates all these women as cage banging whores only after his disco stick.
2. He leaves bruises on Ryann when he throws her out in a fit of anger.
3. He talks about Katie, his friend's girl & who was the MC in book one, like she is the woman of his dreams - how hot she is, how sweet, how wonderful, how smart, on and on. It's weird,
4. The initial chapters take place at the same time events from book one happen. I liked book one, but it wasn't memorable enough for me to remember details from when I read it months ago. The author talking about the events like I should is frustrating. Plus, I don't really care to rehash the Easton & Katie story through Disco Aidan's POV.
Deliver Me From This Hell Thoust Has Trapeth Me Within
In...
While this...
Ryann decides drug & drag will be the only way to get Disco to NY.
^ Umhuh, okay. Great plan Ms. Professional PI.
Road trip. They call a truths after they get caught up in a robbery.
We now have 13 chapters, yes, 13 mfing chapters , of the most inane, repetitive, & assuming bullshit I believe I've ever read, most of which is expressed in inner monologue.
It goes something like this...
Him: she's so hot. She's just like all the others. I care about her. I can't care about her. She shouldn't care about me. How dare her not care about me. She's using me for my disco dick. I want to fuck her but it can't be anything more than fucking. I don't want her to use me as a fuck toy. Why doesnt she care about me. Omg she does care about me. Do I want her to care about me? Hell no cause I don't do relationships. Oh, fuck she's using me. I'm protective of her. I can't fuck her because I might care too much. No, I don't do relationships. Why doesn't she want a relationship. Omg she wants me. No, I can't let her care about me. She's lying to me. I'm an ass. Better this way. I want to fuck her. No, no I can't fuck her. Would it be so bad if she loved me. OMG I have to be an ass because she loves me. I want to fuck her. <<<< on and on and on and on for THIRTEEN CHAPTERS
Meanwhile, she is doing the exact same inner monologue shit and speaking out of both sides of her mouth. So we have double the fun... Yiiiiipppppie!
Those 13 chapters of hell have got to be the most infuriating, long, childish, wishy-washy, vapid, woe is me bullshit I've ever read.
Yippie They Arrive In NY
I actually have a moment where I think this might make a turn around to actually have a mfing plot beyond MMA style Shakespeare woe on a seesaw, and it does, but damn if we don't got right back to the bullshit from the 13 chapters of hell.
At least this time it's a fresh hell of trust and assumptions vs lust and assumptions.
In all honesty, the bad guy plot isn't half bad - mob, murder, embezzlement, bribes, dirty politics, family secrets, underground fights, kidnapping, etc. could've, would've, should've been good.
The problem is that so little time is devoted to the plot and so much time is devoted to filler scenes and inner monologues of her trying to decipher his feelings and vice versa that the plot gets absolutely swallowed whole by the whale of woe in the sea of fluff.
It's Over... Finally!!!!!!!!
This is one of those books where the initial 10% sets shit up for you, the MCs basically fight and argue over what's not said and what's assumed for the next 80% making asses of themselves, and the last 10% solves all the problems.
The last few pages were plucked like a stray brow hair you've somehow not seen growing for, oh, I don't know.. Forever.
As much thought as we had to listen to about him assuming she was using his cock and then him... There is little thought or certainty to anything romantically long-term until the very final pages, and then it's an OTT long-term that doesn't even hold true to what the author's portrayed in her character for the last 99% of the book. CTFO!
BTW: thanks for leaving the mama's involvement just fing dangling in the air....~ ~ ~
Bottom Line
I liked book one, but this one is just not good at all. It feels like the author had a couple of talking point sentences that she surrounded by nonsense and called it a day.
If you, too, have survived this
August 26, 2015
Unfortunately this wasn't for me. The characters needed more depth. I understand what the author was going for, but it just didn't work.
August 9, 2015
Review copy courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley.
**This review is for a DNF**
I got to 35% in this book and I had to quit. I just couldn't handle one more second of the heroine's immature reactions or her stupid silences.
Ryann was one of the worst heroines I've read in a while. She's terminally stupid and pathetically immature. She clammed up when she met the hero long enough to assume that she was a whore. She did this not once but twice! She answers questions that don't matter but can't find the ability to speak for the ones that DO matter. She drugs the hero and abducts him. She seduces him and then cries like a child when she realizes that she once again didn't say something when she should have. I don't care how much money she needed or why she needed it. She has zero ethics, no morals and no standards. Her stupidity and immaturity and awfulness was so severe that there was no way she could have turned my opinion around.
Aiden wasn't a lot better but I was more sympathetic towards him. Ryann asked no questions before she accepted the job that entailed drugging and abducting a grown man. When Aiden finally explains what's going on with his family and why they want him back so badly, Ryann feels bad and Aiden forgives her. Boom. Done. Seriously? She's lied to him, drugged him, and kidnapped him and its all, "Oh that's okay, you didn't know." Aiden was just a fool. And he was so quick to assume things and he never bothered asking any questions (no, I guess I'm not blaming all of this on Ryann). It was irksome, especially when one or two simple questions would have solved a lot of his dilemmas.
There wasn't much Sexy Time by 35% and even if it would have been hot, I couldn't stand the two main characters enough to even attempt staying with the book.
This book was a total miss for me and it really pissed me off. I can't imagine anyone liking Ryann. Being struck stupid by someone's hotness is a borderline ridiculous scenario at best but for Ryann to suffer it twice was unforgivable. She's a professional private investigator so she should be able to keep her frigging wits about her in stressful situations...and she couldn't handle talking to a hot guy? And then she stumbles from one screw up to another and I just couldn't stand it anymore. I would definitely suggest passing on this one. If you really want to check out this author, go check out Book 1 in this series (Win by Submission). It was much less infuriating.
**This review is for a DNF**
I got to 35% in this book and I had to quit. I just couldn't handle one more second of the heroine's immature reactions or her stupid silences.
Ryann was one of the worst heroines I've read in a while. She's terminally stupid and pathetically immature. She clammed up when she met the hero long enough to assume that she was a whore. She did this not once but twice! She answers questions that don't matter but can't find the ability to speak for the ones that DO matter. She drugs the hero and abducts him. She seduces him and then cries like a child when she realizes that she once again didn't say something when she should have. I don't care how much money she needed or why she needed it. She has zero ethics, no morals and no standards. Her stupidity and immaturity and awfulness was so severe that there was no way she could have turned my opinion around.
Aiden wasn't a lot better but I was more sympathetic towards him. Ryann asked no questions before she accepted the job that entailed drugging and abducting a grown man. When Aiden finally explains what's going on with his family and why they want him back so badly, Ryann feels bad and Aiden forgives her. Boom. Done. Seriously? She's lied to him, drugged him, and kidnapped him and its all, "Oh that's okay, you didn't know." Aiden was just a fool. And he was so quick to assume things and he never bothered asking any questions (no, I guess I'm not blaming all of this on Ryann). It was irksome, especially when one or two simple questions would have solved a lot of his dilemmas.
There wasn't much Sexy Time by 35% and even if it would have been hot, I couldn't stand the two main characters enough to even attempt staying with the book.
This book was a total miss for me and it really pissed me off. I can't imagine anyone liking Ryann. Being struck stupid by someone's hotness is a borderline ridiculous scenario at best but for Ryann to suffer it twice was unforgivable. She's a professional private investigator so she should be able to keep her frigging wits about her in stressful situations...and she couldn't handle talking to a hot guy? And then she stumbles from one screw up to another and I just couldn't stand it anymore. I would definitely suggest passing on this one. If you really want to check out this author, go check out Book 1 in this series (Win by Submission). It was much less infuriating.
July 27, 2017
Great read
Impatient me started listening on the way to work, since my summer is now over and it's back to work. But I of course got so into the book I had to see what was going to happen so I read the rest!
Great story lots of twist! Kept you on the edge to see what was going to happen. Aiden was so freaking HOT! I want him! Ryann was a tough cookie in a terrible spot.
Action, plot twists, hot sex= awesome read!
Impatient me started listening on the way to work, since my summer is now over and it's back to work. But I of course got so into the book I had to see what was going to happen so I read the rest!
Great story lots of twist! Kept you on the edge to see what was going to happen. Aiden was so freaking HOT! I want him! Ryann was a tough cookie in a terrible spot.
Action, plot twists, hot sex= awesome read!
August 3, 2015
I was honoured to receive an ARC of this book for my honest review.
Where to start! I'm already a HUGE fan of Melynda Price's writing style. To say she has a way with words really is an understatement. Her use of descriptive language places the reader right in the thick of events to the point that everything outside her story ceases to exist for a while.
I've had a very busy life lately and it has driven me CRAZY to know that this book has been waiting for me when I have been unable to pick it up! That's what happens with Melynda's stories. Her realistic characters grab you and drag you into their minds and into their lives until you experience every emotion, every sensation.
I loved, loved LOVED Aiden "Disco Stick" Kruze. He was the best combination of arrogant, sexy and funny. With a wit as sharp as his tongue. But Ryann gave as good as she got and I loved her strength and her tenacity. She was no push over that's for sure!
The story had twists and turns that really had me on the edge of my seat which meant a few reading sessions went on into the wee small hours as I HAD to know what was going to happen!
If you love MMA fighter stories, passion, lust and romance then this is one series you really need to check out!
Overall a thoroughly enjoyable and suspenseful ride with some very hot sexual tension thrown in for good measure. It's my favourite book of Price's yet and I can't wait for the next installment!!
Where to start! I'm already a HUGE fan of Melynda Price's writing style. To say she has a way with words really is an understatement. Her use of descriptive language places the reader right in the thick of events to the point that everything outside her story ceases to exist for a while.
I've had a very busy life lately and it has driven me CRAZY to know that this book has been waiting for me when I have been unable to pick it up! That's what happens with Melynda's stories. Her realistic characters grab you and drag you into their minds and into their lives until you experience every emotion, every sensation.
I loved, loved LOVED Aiden "Disco Stick" Kruze. He was the best combination of arrogant, sexy and funny. With a wit as sharp as his tongue. But Ryann gave as good as she got and I loved her strength and her tenacity. She was no push over that's for sure!
The story had twists and turns that really had me on the edge of my seat which meant a few reading sessions went on into the wee small hours as I HAD to know what was going to happen!
If you love MMA fighter stories, passion, lust and romance then this is one series you really need to check out!
Overall a thoroughly enjoyable and suspenseful ride with some very hot sexual tension thrown in for good measure. It's my favourite book of Price's yet and I can't wait for the next installment!!
June 28, 2016
I received this book as an ARC through netgalley and in return will give my honest review
First of all I would like to start off by saying I LOVE this book. I love Aiden and I love Nikko. I can't wait for Nikko to have a book. I have not read the first book in the series and after this I will! But this book had so many twists and turns. This was very well written (not confusing at all and so easy to read) and the character development was on point. I even enjoyed the heroin in the book which is rare.
I enjoy MMA books but this was so much more than just sex and fighting. There even is a mob twist and a political twist. It was like all my favorites all in one book. I absolutely could not put this book down but to catch a couple hours of sleep then woke to finish!!
If you are looking to fall in love with some rough on the outside guys, fighting, some killing, love, sex, lies and a just all in all good book PLEASE read!!
First of all I would like to start off by saying I LOVE this book. I love Aiden and I love Nikko. I can't wait for Nikko to have a book. I have not read the first book in the series and after this I will! But this book had so many twists and turns. This was very well written (not confusing at all and so easy to read) and the character development was on point. I even enjoyed the heroin in the book which is rare.
I enjoy MMA books but this was so much more than just sex and fighting. There even is a mob twist and a political twist. It was like all my favorites all in one book. I absolutely could not put this book down but to catch a couple hours of sleep then woke to finish!!
If you are looking to fall in love with some rough on the outside guys, fighting, some killing, love, sex, lies and a just all in all good book PLEASE read!!
July 29, 2015
A fascinating, enjoyable, rollercoaster of a read…
This is the second book in the Against the Cage series which can be read as a stand-alone.
No one would suspect that the pierced, tattooed, extremely sexy MMA fighter Aiden “Disco Stick” Kruze is the son of a senator and a skilled lawyer. He walked away from that life in Manhattan over a year ago for good reasons. Yet the past doesn’t want to let him go, his family has sent a beautiful sexy private investigator to find him in Las Vegas. Mistaking her for a groupie he offers her a ticket to his upcoming match without hearing what she had to say but intrigued by the connection that he felt with her at their first meeting, she seemed so different from the rest of the women that he’s known. Misunderstanding what she says after the match changes his opinion of her and he treats her like all the others. When he learns that she’s been sent to retrieve him after she puts the brakes on their rather steamy encounter in his hotel room he loses control and kicks her out ungraciously.
Ryann Andrews is a private investigator skilled at locating missing persons. She’s in serious trouble, upon the death of her father came threats to take over his gambling debts to a mafia lord or else. She’s short the amount of money needed and the deadline for repayment is close. When the wife of a senator asks Ryann to find her missing son and return with him she has no choice but to take the job though she senses that there’s more to the woman’s story than she’s telling. Tracking the errant son down to Las Vegas, Ryann finds it hard to believe that the gorgeous muscled MMA fighter that she’s looking at is the same man in the photo that she’s been sent to retrieve but the similarities can’t be ignored. When their eyes meet across the gym she’s stunned by the instant connection that she feels in every fiber of her being. But she has a job to do and little choice in doing it by legal and if necessary illegal means.
I loved this book, the storyline, the characters, the unexpected plot twists, the suspense, and the fast pacing kept me turning the pages. There are lies, deceptions and betrayals to sort through. There are dual points of view, emotional depth to the protagonists, and palpable chemistry between them. They both have sad stories and flaws that make them human. That they’re not used to being in relationships causes communication problems and misunderstandings, their internal thoughts are most interesting and slow to be shared while they navigate their feelings. They both want what they hadn’t expected to find and are unsure of trusting each other. They frustrate each other often.
Aiden is a great alpha, an intelligent, complex yet good man; a protector by nature who will do what he has to do to keep the woman that he’s fallen in love with safe no matter what the personal costs to him. Ryann is a good hearted soul, a strong sassy heroine caught in a situation not of her own making, facing a moral dilemma, trying to survive yet torn by what she needs to do to a man that she’s fallen for who doesn’t deserve what she’s brought to his door. They both exhibited much character growth and I loved the tenderness between them that they tried to hide. The ending was scary, the epilogue was perfect. This was a fascinating, enjoyable, rollercoaster of a read and the first time I have read this author’s work. I will definitely pick up the first book in the series.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
This is the second book in the Against the Cage series which can be read as a stand-alone.
No one would suspect that the pierced, tattooed, extremely sexy MMA fighter Aiden “Disco Stick” Kruze is the son of a senator and a skilled lawyer. He walked away from that life in Manhattan over a year ago for good reasons. Yet the past doesn’t want to let him go, his family has sent a beautiful sexy private investigator to find him in Las Vegas. Mistaking her for a groupie he offers her a ticket to his upcoming match without hearing what she had to say but intrigued by the connection that he felt with her at their first meeting, she seemed so different from the rest of the women that he’s known. Misunderstanding what she says after the match changes his opinion of her and he treats her like all the others. When he learns that she’s been sent to retrieve him after she puts the brakes on their rather steamy encounter in his hotel room he loses control and kicks her out ungraciously.
Ryann Andrews is a private investigator skilled at locating missing persons. She’s in serious trouble, upon the death of her father came threats to take over his gambling debts to a mafia lord or else. She’s short the amount of money needed and the deadline for repayment is close. When the wife of a senator asks Ryann to find her missing son and return with him she has no choice but to take the job though she senses that there’s more to the woman’s story than she’s telling. Tracking the errant son down to Las Vegas, Ryann finds it hard to believe that the gorgeous muscled MMA fighter that she’s looking at is the same man in the photo that she’s been sent to retrieve but the similarities can’t be ignored. When their eyes meet across the gym she’s stunned by the instant connection that she feels in every fiber of her being. But she has a job to do and little choice in doing it by legal and if necessary illegal means.
I loved this book, the storyline, the characters, the unexpected plot twists, the suspense, and the fast pacing kept me turning the pages. There are lies, deceptions and betrayals to sort through. There are dual points of view, emotional depth to the protagonists, and palpable chemistry between them. They both have sad stories and flaws that make them human. That they’re not used to being in relationships causes communication problems and misunderstandings, their internal thoughts are most interesting and slow to be shared while they navigate their feelings. They both want what they hadn’t expected to find and are unsure of trusting each other. They frustrate each other often.
Aiden is a great alpha, an intelligent, complex yet good man; a protector by nature who will do what he has to do to keep the woman that he’s fallen in love with safe no matter what the personal costs to him. Ryann is a good hearted soul, a strong sassy heroine caught in a situation not of her own making, facing a moral dilemma, trying to survive yet torn by what she needs to do to a man that she’s fallen for who doesn’t deserve what she’s brought to his door. They both exhibited much character growth and I loved the tenderness between them that they tried to hide. The ending was scary, the epilogue was perfect. This was a fascinating, enjoyable, rollercoaster of a read and the first time I have read this author’s work. I will definitely pick up the first book in the series.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
September 1, 2015
Poorly done. Made up conflicts in the mind and stupidity. I was angry at some of this stuff.
1. Almost all conflicts are exaggerations in the mind - like a “see saw” - ups and downs with no basis in fact. Characters say things they don’t mean and are silent when silence means the wrong thing.
Examples:
They smile at each other. She then thinks “Oh I can’t let him think I like him” so she insults him. Then he is angry and does angry things. Now she regrets insulting him but won’t apologize. She silently sulks.
She asks for sex so he begins. Then when she sees the condom she gets angsty and changes her mind. A minute later she changes her mind back again.
She says the words “make love” which causes him to freak out and he no longer wants sex. Then a minute later he changes his mind, again.
After one of the sex scenes, he thinks “she just plans to f... me and then forget me.” That came out of nowhere. It was made up in his head.
All these thoughts were jarring - back and forth exaggerations in the mind.
SPOILERS: (items 2 and 3 re: stupidity)
4. Early in the book Ryann (a private investigator) is hired to find Aiden. I wanted to see how Ryann discovered clues to find out where he was. I was disappointed that was skipped, nothing was shown. Instead, after being hired the next scene has Ryann talking to Aiden.
5. This was a minor problem but it bugged me. I don’t like authors giving female and male names to the opposite sex. Throughout the book I had to concentrate to remember that Ryann was a girl. Aiden is a little more generic but I kept thinking Aiden was the girl. It didn’t fit the tough fighter.
WHAT WAS GOOD?
I liked the character definitions and personalities and the good sexy chemistry between Ryann and Aiden. I liked the plot and set up.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Kindle count length: 5,350 (402 pages per Amazon). Swearing language: strong including religious swear words. Sexual language: strong. Number of sex scenes: 11. Setting: current day New York City, Las Vegas, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Copyright: 2015. Genre: erotic contemporary romance, mixed martial arts.
1. Almost all conflicts are exaggerations in the mind - like a “see saw” - ups and downs with no basis in fact. Characters say things they don’t mean and are silent when silence means the wrong thing.
Examples:
They smile at each other. She then thinks “Oh I can’t let him think I like him” so she insults him. Then he is angry and does angry things. Now she regrets insulting him but won’t apologize. She silently sulks.
She asks for sex so he begins. Then when she sees the condom she gets angsty and changes her mind. A minute later she changes her mind back again.
She says the words “make love” which causes him to freak out and he no longer wants sex. Then a minute later he changes his mind, again.
After one of the sex scenes, he thinks “she just plans to f... me and then forget me.” That came out of nowhere. It was made up in his head.
All these thoughts were jarring - back and forth exaggerations in the mind.
SPOILERS: (items 2 and 3 re: stupidity)
4. Early in the book Ryann (a private investigator) is hired to find Aiden. I wanted to see how Ryann discovered clues to find out where he was. I was disappointed that was skipped, nothing was shown. Instead, after being hired the next scene has Ryann talking to Aiden.
5. This was a minor problem but it bugged me. I don’t like authors giving female and male names to the opposite sex. Throughout the book I had to concentrate to remember that Ryann was a girl. Aiden is a little more generic but I kept thinking Aiden was the girl. It didn’t fit the tough fighter.
WHAT WAS GOOD?
I liked the character definitions and personalities and the good sexy chemistry between Ryann and Aiden. I liked the plot and set up.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Kindle count length: 5,350 (402 pages per Amazon). Swearing language: strong including religious swear words. Sexual language: strong. Number of sex scenes: 11. Setting: current day New York City, Las Vegas, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Copyright: 2015. Genre: erotic contemporary romance, mixed martial arts.
August 9, 2015
Passing His Guard by Melynda Price
Aiden “ Disco Stick”’ Kruze is brilliant, talented, and very handsome. He is also a professional MMA fighter. This has always been his dream, however his family had other priorities for Aiden.
Aiden escapes the hold of his family; he leaves all the money, friends and family behind. He is where he wants to be. He doesn’t need the life of the senator son. When Ryann shows up to the gym Aiden assumes she is beautiful groupie. He is totally wrong.
Ryann is beautiful, smart and a good person. She has had it rough and is in a huge financial disaster. She is a private investigator. Ryann is hired for the one job that will put her back on track she never knew what was going to hit her.
His name is Aiden Kruze.
Ryann is determined to get Aiden back to New York and he is NEVER going back there.
When Aiden and Ryann discover there are feeling for each other. Aiden has known he must save her from all the lies and deceit. Will Aiden be able to pass his guard for true love???
POWERFUL, CAPTIVATING, PROFESSIONALLY WRITTEN, BEAUTIFUL 6+++ STARS YES!!!!
Melynda Price novel titled Passing His Guard. Let me first saying I wish that every reader would read this phenomenal author. I absolutely loved Win by Submission the first book of this series. I was so excited for Aiden story. This author took my attention to another level; I loved it from beginning to the end. This writer is just that an amazing writer and storyteller. The book flows so well that you find yourself reading this like you will be watching it on the big screen. Melynda has the skills of connecting the reader to the characters and having them up all night, because you cannot stop until it’s over. She also did an amazing job on the text, I personally know about the MMA world and I loved that she had her story and information on point. I didn’t see any mistakes in the book and for me its important. I totally recommend this novel and Win by Submission to readers it is an amazing test of love and understanding. I thoroughly enjoyed the story!!!
Reviewed by:
Yolanda Ann
The Art of Romance
July 31, 2015
*I was given a copy of this book as a gift from Stephanie's Book Reports in exchange for an honest review.
5 stars for Passing His Guard by Melynda Price! This is the second book in the Against the Cage series, but it can be read as a stand alone.
Ryann Andrews is a private investigator who has just lost her father. She knows that he was murdered, but she can't prove it. The mob boss whom her father worked for and owed a lot of money has now come to her doorstep to collect the debt. Ryann doesn't have a clue where she will get the money, and this obviously leaves her feeling desperate. When she is hired to "find" a senator's son, her search leads her to Vegas. She has no idea that her life is about to take a drastic turn.
Aiden "Disco Stick" Kruze is a sexy MMA fighter. He is also a senator's son and was once a successful attorney. He left his old life behind for a lot of reasons and has no intention of ever stepping foot back in New York. When the sexy Ryann shows up, he is instantly attracted to her, but he refuses to let her convince him to return to his former life. As they spend more time together, they each find themselves falling in love. When Aiden learns why Ryann is so desperate for the reward money his mother has promised her upon his return, he is determined to help her. When demons from the past appear, he and Ryann find themselves in a dangerous web of lies, betrayal, and deceit.
I really enjoyed this book! The story line is filled with danger, suspense, and romance. Aiden is the perfect alpha male-sexy and dominant with a hidden sweet side. If you are looking for a great read, this is the book for you!!
5 stars for Passing His Guard by Melynda Price! This is the second book in the Against the Cage series, but it can be read as a stand alone.
Ryann Andrews is a private investigator who has just lost her father. She knows that he was murdered, but she can't prove it. The mob boss whom her father worked for and owed a lot of money has now come to her doorstep to collect the debt. Ryann doesn't have a clue where she will get the money, and this obviously leaves her feeling desperate. When she is hired to "find" a senator's son, her search leads her to Vegas. She has no idea that her life is about to take a drastic turn.
Aiden "Disco Stick" Kruze is a sexy MMA fighter. He is also a senator's son and was once a successful attorney. He left his old life behind for a lot of reasons and has no intention of ever stepping foot back in New York. When the sexy Ryann shows up, he is instantly attracted to her, but he refuses to let her convince him to return to his former life. As they spend more time together, they each find themselves falling in love. When Aiden learns why Ryann is so desperate for the reward money his mother has promised her upon his return, he is determined to help her. When demons from the past appear, he and Ryann find themselves in a dangerous web of lies, betrayal, and deceit.
I really enjoyed this book! The story line is filled with danger, suspense, and romance. Aiden is the perfect alpha male-sexy and dominant with a hidden sweet side. If you are looking for a great read, this is the book for you!!
July 28, 2015
okay SO i thought I loved Easton and Katies story. But When I saw the ARC on Netgalley for Aiden's story I just had to have it. And I was so not disappointed in it.
Aiden is known for charming the women, and being a badass. Those close to him dont know what he's hiding in his past. But when a woman walks into the gym. He thinks she's just a cage banger, but his world is about to get turned upside down.
Ryann has been hired to do what she does best. Find her missing person and she does just that with Aiden. The thing is both are hiding things that are linked together and extremely dangerous. There is a reason that Aiden is in Vegas and there is a reason Ryann needs this job. It was really great and I enjoyed it a lot.
Aiden is known for charming the women, and being a badass. Those close to him dont know what he's hiding in his past. But when a woman walks into the gym. He thinks she's just a cage banger, but his world is about to get turned upside down.
Ryann has been hired to do what she does best. Find her missing person and she does just that with Aiden. The thing is both are hiding things that are linked together and extremely dangerous. There is a reason that Aiden is in Vegas and there is a reason Ryann needs this job. It was really great and I enjoyed it a lot.
August 28, 2018
I am not one for instalove stories. But this one was super cute and I guess it wasn't really instalove... More like instalust that formed into instalove? I don't know if that makes sense. But it made sense in my mind. :D
Anywho, I read Aiden's story without reading the first book in this series. And I understood everything just fine. The characters from the first book were present but not to the point that I had no idea what was going on.
This is the story of Aiden and Ryann (pronounced like the boy's name, I made the mistake of pronouncing this wrong until I switched to audio). Ryann is a private investigator who is hired by Aiden's very powerful family to find him after he's gone off on his own. Let me just mention he is a grown ass man and can do whatever tf he wants. But who am I to say?
Anyways, Ryann sets off to find Aiden and finds him a well known semi-famous? actually famous? MMA fighter. She's being paid handsomely to bring him back to his family, whether he wants to or not. Their across country trekk to bring him home results in the feels developing and one thing becomes another and they find out the back story for one another which complicates things ever more.
I must say I was not expecting for this story to take the turn that it did. But it was refreshing to read something I wasn't expecting.
This was a good read. (:
Anywho, I read Aiden's story without reading the first book in this series. And I understood everything just fine. The characters from the first book were present but not to the point that I had no idea what was going on.
This is the story of Aiden and Ryann (pronounced like the boy's name, I made the mistake of pronouncing this wrong until I switched to audio). Ryann is a private investigator who is hired by Aiden's very powerful family to find him after he's gone off on his own. Let me just mention he is a grown ass man and can do whatever tf he wants. But who am I to say?
Anyways, Ryann sets off to find Aiden and finds him a well known semi-famous? actually famous? MMA fighter. She's being paid handsomely to bring him back to his family, whether he wants to or not. Their across country trekk to bring him home results in the feels developing and one thing becomes another and they find out the back story for one another which complicates things ever more.
I must say I was not expecting for this story to take the turn that it did. But it was refreshing to read something I wasn't expecting.
This was a good read. (:
January 16, 2022
second read - 2022 - ☆☆☆.5
unfortunately, i didn't enjoy this as much as i did the first time around! still love aiden though
first read - 2016 - ☆☆☆☆☆. original review below.
"Let's have some fun, this beat is sick,
I wanna take a ride on your disco stick"
Ahh! I'm going to try my hardest not to fangirl my way through this review but oh my gaaad. I thought Cole Easton's story touched me but my goodness, Aiden Kruze officially owns my heart.
I enjoy Melynda Price's writing but during the hot and heavy scenes, the descriptions can get a little repetitive however she does make up for this with the depth and heart she pours into her characters. I love how her female characters are always strong enough to hold their own- usually, the female protagonists in this genre are extremely wishy washy and have no backbone.
In this case, Ryann is the exact opposite. The alternating perspectives allow us to see just how much she feels like she needs Aiden but her actions don't portray her desperation. She is a strong character in her own right and I loved how Aiden was inspired by her strength as opposed to being turned off by it. Oh, and a redhead with green eyes? I don't think her physical description could be any more perfect.
Now moving on to Aiden... can I just start off with SWOOOOOOON . I already liked his character based on the small introduction he had in 'Win by Submission' but I didn't realise just how much I'd grow to love him. His physical description in all honestly did nothing for me but his personality was just soo ugggh. The lack of love he received from his parents paired with the fame he found as his alter ego 'Disco Stick' (the badass MMA fighter) makes it difficult for him to trust anyone, let alone a woman. He feels as though he's constantly used for his body and the vulnerability expressed through his internal monologue at being objectified was so endearing. I. JUST. CAN'T.
His fear of love and commitment, his temper (all things that should really make me hate him) just built him a special place in my heart; his character has so many layers but my favourite version has to be the witty lawyer. I mean, a guy who is a beast in the cage but also a Harvard Law graduate to top it off?? ILY AIDEN <333
The plot line in this novel also pleasantly surprised me, I was pretty shocked at some of the plot twists and I liked how both characters had their own burdens instead of being overly involved in each others business. I was so invested in their relationship and the epilogue OMG my face hurt from smiling so hard!
If you can't tell already, I loved this story and I AM SO EXCITED FOR NIKKO'S STORY BECAUSE I THINK I FELL IN LOVE WITH HIM TOO! His banter with Ryann made me laugh so hard and I cannot wait to discover his demons.
(ALSO special shout out to this book for reintroducing me to Lady Gaga's Love Game - talk about nostalgia!)
unfortunately, i didn't enjoy this as much as i did the first time around! still love aiden though
first read - 2016 - ☆☆☆☆☆. original review below.
"Let's have some fun, this beat is sick,
I wanna take a ride on your disco stick"
Ahh! I'm going to try my hardest not to fangirl my way through this review but oh my gaaad. I thought Cole Easton's story touched me but my goodness, Aiden Kruze officially owns my heart.
I enjoy Melynda Price's writing but during the hot and heavy scenes, the descriptions can get a little repetitive however she does make up for this with the depth and heart she pours into her characters. I love how her female characters are always strong enough to hold their own- usually, the female protagonists in this genre are extremely wishy washy and have no backbone.
In this case, Ryann is the exact opposite. The alternating perspectives allow us to see just how much she feels like she needs Aiden but her actions don't portray her desperation. She is a strong character in her own right and I loved how Aiden was inspired by her strength as opposed to being turned off by it. Oh, and a redhead with green eyes? I don't think her physical description could be any more perfect.
Now moving on to Aiden... can I just start off with SWOOOOOOON . I already liked his character based on the small introduction he had in 'Win by Submission' but I didn't realise just how much I'd grow to love him. His physical description in all honestly did nothing for me but his personality was just soo ugggh. The lack of love he received from his parents paired with the fame he found as his alter ego 'Disco Stick' (the badass MMA fighter) makes it difficult for him to trust anyone, let alone a woman. He feels as though he's constantly used for his body and the vulnerability expressed through his internal monologue at being objectified was so endearing. I. JUST. CAN'T.
His fear of love and commitment, his temper (all things that should really make me hate him) just built him a special place in my heart; his character has so many layers but my favourite version has to be the witty lawyer. I mean, a guy who is a beast in the cage but also a Harvard Law graduate to top it off?? ILY AIDEN <333
The plot line in this novel also pleasantly surprised me, I was pretty shocked at some of the plot twists and I liked how both characters had their own burdens instead of being overly involved in each others business. I was so invested in their relationship and the epilogue OMG my face hurt from smiling so hard!
If you can't tell already, I loved this story and I AM SO EXCITED FOR NIKKO'S STORY BECAUSE I THINK I FELL IN LOVE WITH HIM TOO! His banter with Ryann made me laugh so hard and I cannot wait to discover his demons.
(ALSO special shout out to this book for reintroducing me to Lady Gaga's Love Game - talk about nostalgia!)
August 19, 2015
Though I thought Passing His Guard had all the ingredients for a good book recipe, this literary batch of MMA romance was not very palatable for this NetGalley reviewer. There was too much internal dialog added for my taste and too little character likability, especially regarding the hero. The constant back and forth inner thoughts of the main couple were exhausting. Seemed to take forever for the story to progress.
As if that wasn’t enough to make you lose your reading appetite, the intermixed, big heaping doses of indecisiveness/mistrust of each other thrown in at random did not help. Seriously, Adian and his friends treated every woman they met disrespectfully. Had no qualms about using women, but Adian would become furious when he thought a woman might use him. Say it with me, sisters. I know you want to. Regardless of how great he looks in or out of his Armani suits, that still makes him a j-e-r-k.
Yes, eventually some action-packed drama with quite a few unexpected twists and turns got things cooking. Yes, at the end, Adian’s willingness to put himself on the line for Ryann finally made me like him. However, by then, I was so disengaged that I found myself skimming through what should have been the best part. Sadly, I just wanted it to be over.
So here’s to hoping others like it. Honestly, I hate writing critical reviews, but this one just didn’t work for me.
Title: Passing His Guard (Book 2), Series: Against the Cage, Author: Melynda Price, Pages: 400, stand-alone, very steamy, HEA, no cheating.
Book 1 – Win by Submission (Cole & Katie), Pub. Date: 4/28/15
(This review is based on ARC ebook generously provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion.)
As if that wasn’t enough to make you lose your reading appetite, the intermixed, big heaping doses of indecisiveness/mistrust of each other thrown in at random did not help. Seriously, Adian and his friends treated every woman they met disrespectfully. Had no qualms about using women, but Adian would become furious when he thought a woman might use him. Say it with me, sisters. I know you want to. Regardless of how great he looks in or out of his Armani suits, that still makes him a j-e-r-k.
Yes, eventually some action-packed drama with quite a few unexpected twists and turns got things cooking. Yes, at the end, Adian’s willingness to put himself on the line for Ryann finally made me like him. However, by then, I was so disengaged that I found myself skimming through what should have been the best part. Sadly, I just wanted it to be over.
So here’s to hoping others like it. Honestly, I hate writing critical reviews, but this one just didn’t work for me.
Title: Passing His Guard (Book 2), Series: Against the Cage, Author: Melynda Price, Pages: 400, stand-alone, very steamy, HEA, no cheating.
Book 1 – Win by Submission (Cole & Katie), Pub. Date: 4/28/15
(This review is based on ARC ebook generously provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion.)
September 4, 2015
This book is pretty amazing ! The plot definitely kept you wanting more. I never read like it before. Aiden and Ryann definitely kept me captivated. Aiden is MMA fighter and Ryann is an investigator. The brewing love between them was unexpected. I was completely hooked. I read this book in one sitting. I loved it a lot!
Please give this book a chance! It is filled with loss, lies, and lots of romance.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND! I'm definitely going buy myself a paperback version once it comes out. I'm so excited !
5 AMAZING STARS ! Go check it out now!
*I was given an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
Please give this book a chance! It is filled with loss, lies, and lots of romance.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND! I'm definitely going buy myself a paperback version once it comes out. I'm so excited !
5 AMAZING STARS ! Go check it out now!
*I was given an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
May 27, 2016
3.5-4 Disco aka Aiden stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
MMA fighter and also hot sexy lawyer - yes please
MMA fighter and also hot sexy lawyer - yes please
January 16, 2016
I loved this story, even more than the previous Win By Submission, which was a great read.
Ryann's father has died and he owed a crippling amount of money to the mob, and they are expecting Ryann to pay it back, or else her life will be forfeit. She's struggling to make the tight schedule they have given her so she takes on a tough job to make the amount of of money she needs. The job is to find and bring Aiden Kruze back to his parents.
When she finds him she realize he's taken on a different persona, he now has facial piercings, tattoos and is a MMA fighter named Aiden "Disco Stick" Kruze, and women love him.
The story really gets interesting as Aiden gets to know and fall in love and Ryann has to learn to trust. A story that is full of intrigue and love. I can't wait for the next book.
Ryann's father has died and he owed a crippling amount of money to the mob, and they are expecting Ryann to pay it back, or else her life will be forfeit. She's struggling to make the tight schedule they have given her so she takes on a tough job to make the amount of of money she needs. The job is to find and bring Aiden Kruze back to his parents.
When she finds him she realize he's taken on a different persona, he now has facial piercings, tattoos and is a MMA fighter named Aiden "Disco Stick" Kruze, and women love him.
The story really gets interesting as Aiden gets to know and fall in love and Ryann has to learn to trust. A story that is full of intrigue and love. I can't wait for the next book.
August 15, 2015
Loved this book! This is the second in the Against the Cage series but can easily be read stand alone. I enjoyed Aidan's character in the previous book so when I saw this was his story I eagerly grabbed it and I was not disappointed!! Aidan comes from money. He was a high powered attorney in Manhattan, but something made him turn his back on it all. The mystery comes to light when Ryann Andrews shows up at his gym. Ryann is in a world of trouble. The only way to get out of it is to find Aidan and haul him back to Manhattan, and that is exactly what she intends to do. It doesn't matter how attracted she is to him or his reasons for leaving. This is their whirlwind story and it's a great one. I highly recommend this book!
July 23, 2015
I loved this addition to the series!! While I love Aiden he still isn't Cole. Lol. This story was really great and Ryann was a wonderful female lead and a great match for Aiden. I know we were supposed to be focusing on Aiden but I have to admit Nikko stole the show in my opinion. I am really really intrigued by our damaged veteran who doesn't seem to know much kindness in his life. Now back to Aiden and Ryann, there were lots of funny parts, some seriously smoking sex scenes and plenty of suspenseful moments.
This was a complimentary e-copy provided by the author/publisher in exchange for a honest review via Netgalley.
This was a complimentary e-copy provided by the author/publisher in exchange for a honest review via Netgalley.
July 22, 2015
Aiden Kruze is my new book boyfriend! I loved this story. The characters had great development and fantastic chemistry. I like that this wasn't a typical MMA romance. There were a lot of additional elements that gave this story complexity and depth as well as a strong level of suspense. This book is a stand-alone even through it is the second in a series. It was fun to read about the characters in the first book through Aiden's POV as there is a brief overlap in events between the first and second book. I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2016
These two made me dizzy. Yes we are. No we're not. Yes we are. But boy when they finally did get together hot, hot hot. Aiden and Ryann were great once they got everything straightened out. I'm really enjoying this series even if I'm reading backwards.
August 4, 2015
I have to admit, I am not normally a fan of books about MMA fighters or alpha-males. I've tried them before and found the guys to be just too possessive, aggressive, and over-the-top, but the cover for this book just kept drawing me back to it again and again, and I was really intrigued by the premise, so I decided to venture out of my comfort zone and give it a chance. I am so glad I did, because I loved it!
Aiden "Disco Stick" Kruze is the son of a New York senator and grew up with every privilege in life. He was given the best education money could buy and walked into a high-paying power job immediately after graduating law school; and he hated all of it. Always feeling suffocated by his parents, he desperately wants to break away and follow his own dreams. One day, he does. He leaves everything behind and heads off to Vegas to pursue a career as an MMA fighter.
Ryann Andrews is in big trouble. Struggling to run her father's PI firm after his death, she is being pursued by the mob to pay off a large gambling debt her father left behind. What's worse, is that she suspects her father's death was not an accident and now she fears for her own life. She is just about at her wits end when one day the senator's wife walks through the door of her PI firm and offers her a very large sum of money to track down her missing son and get him to return back to his job and family in New York. It's an offer a desperate Ryann cannot refuse.
And this is where this story became un-put-down-able because once Ryann and Aiden come face to face, their chemistry was off the charts! Enemies to lovers is one of my favorite plots and this story did not disappoint! Although the entire book only spans a week or two, it is jam packed with action, suspense and oodles of sexual tension! I don't want to give any of the plot away because not knowing what is going to happen next is what makes this book such a page turner, but I will say that I was pleasantly surprised that Aiden was not the typical alpha-male asshole I thought he was going to be. Although he had a tough bad-boy exterior, he was very polished and intelligent on the inside. I absolutely loved his character and I loved the progression of his relationship with Ryann.
This was the first book I have read by this author, but I loved it so much, I already plan to read its predecessor next!
***ARC received via NetGalley in an exchange for an honest review***
Aiden "Disco Stick" Kruze is the son of a New York senator and grew up with every privilege in life. He was given the best education money could buy and walked into a high-paying power job immediately after graduating law school; and he hated all of it. Always feeling suffocated by his parents, he desperately wants to break away and follow his own dreams. One day, he does. He leaves everything behind and heads off to Vegas to pursue a career as an MMA fighter.
Ryann Andrews is in big trouble. Struggling to run her father's PI firm after his death, she is being pursued by the mob to pay off a large gambling debt her father left behind. What's worse, is that she suspects her father's death was not an accident and now she fears for her own life. She is just about at her wits end when one day the senator's wife walks through the door of her PI firm and offers her a very large sum of money to track down her missing son and get him to return back to his job and family in New York. It's an offer a desperate Ryann cannot refuse.
And this is where this story became un-put-down-able because once Ryann and Aiden come face to face, their chemistry was off the charts! Enemies to lovers is one of my favorite plots and this story did not disappoint! Although the entire book only spans a week or two, it is jam packed with action, suspense and oodles of sexual tension! I don't want to give any of the plot away because not knowing what is going to happen next is what makes this book such a page turner, but I will say that I was pleasantly surprised that Aiden was not the typical alpha-male asshole I thought he was going to be. Although he had a tough bad-boy exterior, he was very polished and intelligent on the inside. I absolutely loved his character and I loved the progression of his relationship with Ryann.
This was the first book I have read by this author, but I loved it so much, I already plan to read its predecessor next!
***ARC received via NetGalley in an exchange for an honest review***
August 25, 2015
3,25 'Throttle You Or Fuck You' Stars
I had a bit of a 'reader's block' when I started reading this book. The story didn't catch me from the beginning and it took me a while to finish it, but I believe it was my problem and not the book because although I didn't love it, I ended up liking it.
Aiden “Disco Stick” Kruze walked away from a rich life in Manhattan for very good reason, but what he left behind wasn't ready to let him go.
Now an MMA fighter, the last thing he suspects when Ryann appears at his gym is that she's a private investigator. Mistaking her for a groupie, he offers her a ticket to his upcoming match.
Ryann Andrews specializes in finding missing people. The death of her father leaves her with a ton of debts and when the wife of a senator asks her to find his son, she has no choice but to take the job. When she tracks Aiden down to Las Vegas, she finds it hard to believe that that muscled and tattooed MMA fighter is the son of the senator she has to find.
The book is filled with inner dialog and misunderstandings and usually that frustrates the hell out of me, but in this case, due to their inexperience in open relationships, I could understand why there was a lack of communication.
Finding it hard to trust each other, it takes them awhile to communicate properly.
The book is filled with suspense, twists, lies and betrayals. A complete rollercoaster that left me on the edge of my seat at times.
One thing I loved, which gave this book another star, was the main characters growth. We usually don't see that in books. We see the way characters change their view of things, but we don't see personal change that often.
Not only Aiden and Ryann changed their view of things, but they changed too, and I loved that.
***ARC from Montlake Romance via NetGalley***
I had a bit of a 'reader's block' when I started reading this book. The story didn't catch me from the beginning and it took me a while to finish it, but I believe it was my problem and not the book because although I didn't love it, I ended up liking it.
Aiden “Disco Stick” Kruze walked away from a rich life in Manhattan for very good reason, but what he left behind wasn't ready to let him go.
Now an MMA fighter, the last thing he suspects when Ryann appears at his gym is that she's a private investigator. Mistaking her for a groupie, he offers her a ticket to his upcoming match.
Ryann Andrews specializes in finding missing people. The death of her father leaves her with a ton of debts and when the wife of a senator asks her to find his son, she has no choice but to take the job. When she tracks Aiden down to Las Vegas, she finds it hard to believe that that muscled and tattooed MMA fighter is the son of the senator she has to find.
The book is filled with inner dialog and misunderstandings and usually that frustrates the hell out of me, but in this case, due to their inexperience in open relationships, I could understand why there was a lack of communication.
Finding it hard to trust each other, it takes them awhile to communicate properly.
The book is filled with suspense, twists, lies and betrayals. A complete rollercoaster that left me on the edge of my seat at times.
One thing I loved, which gave this book another star, was the main characters growth. We usually don't see that in books. We see the way characters change their view of things, but we don't see personal change that often.
Not only Aiden and Ryann changed their view of things, but they changed too, and I loved that.
***ARC from Montlake Romance via NetGalley***
August 23, 2015
Favorite Quotes:
“I’ve never met a woman who can stir my anger one moment and my passion the next. All I know is that I haven’t been able to stop thinking about you since the day you walked into my gym.”
“He looked at her as if she were a circus oddity. Okay, sharing time was over. Embarrassment was an excellent mood killer.”
“‘Clam-jamming me. It’s the female version of cock-blocking,’ she snipped. ‘It’s a real thing. You can Google it.’”
My Review:
I had never read a book with a MMA story line before, and as I am all about new challenges, I wanted to give it a try… but I was also concerned as I don’t relish violence or fighting. Thankfully, I picked a good one to start with, as Passing His Guard was more about the various relationships of the fighter rather than the actual fighting. The storyline was intriguing and interesting, and I enjoyed the dual POV between the two main characters of Aiden and Ryann, although I found the push-pull, back and forth, angsty see-saw between them more than a bit tedious and well into whiplash territory with the on again/off again, but I know many people enjoy that more than I do. The plot was action packed with secrets, lies, mixed signals, MMA fighting, an underground fight club, robberies, abductions, assaults, roofies, gambling additions, cage bangers, an arranged marriage, shootings, mobsters, corrupt police and politicians, and oh my – deliciously steamy sensuality. I like learning new words and phrases to add to my vocabulary and I found one in this story to glom onto, “clam-jamming,” I have gleefully added this one to my naughty list.
I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review
“I’ve never met a woman who can stir my anger one moment and my passion the next. All I know is that I haven’t been able to stop thinking about you since the day you walked into my gym.”
“He looked at her as if she were a circus oddity. Okay, sharing time was over. Embarrassment was an excellent mood killer.”
“‘Clam-jamming me. It’s the female version of cock-blocking,’ she snipped. ‘It’s a real thing. You can Google it.’”
My Review:
I had never read a book with a MMA story line before, and as I am all about new challenges, I wanted to give it a try… but I was also concerned as I don’t relish violence or fighting. Thankfully, I picked a good one to start with, as Passing His Guard was more about the various relationships of the fighter rather than the actual fighting. The storyline was intriguing and interesting, and I enjoyed the dual POV between the two main characters of Aiden and Ryann, although I found the push-pull, back and forth, angsty see-saw between them more than a bit tedious and well into whiplash territory with the on again/off again, but I know many people enjoy that more than I do. The plot was action packed with secrets, lies, mixed signals, MMA fighting, an underground fight club, robberies, abductions, assaults, roofies, gambling additions, cage bangers, an arranged marriage, shootings, mobsters, corrupt police and politicians, and oh my – deliciously steamy sensuality. I like learning new words and phrases to add to my vocabulary and I found one in this story to glom onto, “clam-jamming,” I have gleefully added this one to my naughty list.
I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review
December 16, 2015
I received a complimentary book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
Melynda Price is a fantastic romantic suspense writer. Her books have always grabbed my attention from the first page. She also manages to create so many twists in her stories that I feel as if I am on a roller coaster. Ms. Price also has this extraordinary ability to generate so much chemistry between the main couple that I always wish I were the female lead in the story. This book, Passing Her Guard, also contains all of these elements.
In this story, Aiden Kruze is an MMA fighter who walks away from his life as a rich lawyer who also happens to be a Senator’s son. Ryann Andrews is a private detective who is determined to bring Aiden back home to his family and collect the reward for finding him. She needs the reward money to pay off her father’s creditors who had already killed him and are now coming after her.
Ms. Price also took me through many emotions. I laughed and I cried. I was quite often so frustrated that I became angry at the characters. However, the one emotion I absolutely did not feel was bored!! I never wanted to stop reading about these characters. On the other hand, I couldn’t wait to get to the end so I could see what happens.
I loved the relationship between Aiden and Ryann. When I was done reading this book, I discovered that this was the second book in a trilogy. The fact that I didn’t realize it earlier is an example of how much this book can be read as a stand-alone. However, I have already bought the first book, and I plan to read it as soon as possible.
Melynda Price is a fantastic romantic suspense writer. Her books have always grabbed my attention from the first page. She also manages to create so many twists in her stories that I feel as if I am on a roller coaster. Ms. Price also has this extraordinary ability to generate so much chemistry between the main couple that I always wish I were the female lead in the story. This book, Passing Her Guard, also contains all of these elements.
In this story, Aiden Kruze is an MMA fighter who walks away from his life as a rich lawyer who also happens to be a Senator’s son. Ryann Andrews is a private detective who is determined to bring Aiden back home to his family and collect the reward for finding him. She needs the reward money to pay off her father’s creditors who had already killed him and are now coming after her.
Ms. Price also took me through many emotions. I laughed and I cried. I was quite often so frustrated that I became angry at the characters. However, the one emotion I absolutely did not feel was bored!! I never wanted to stop reading about these characters. On the other hand, I couldn’t wait to get to the end so I could see what happens.
I loved the relationship between Aiden and Ryann. When I was done reading this book, I discovered that this was the second book in a trilogy. The fact that I didn’t realize it earlier is an example of how much this book can be read as a stand-alone. However, I have already bought the first book, and I plan to read it as soon as possible.
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August 16, 2016Hmmmm.... I don't have a clue on how to rate this book. I loved it and hated it. What I liked about the story was mostly the beginning and the overall premise. Aiden aka Disco was a strong and commanding protagonist in the beginning of the book, he's a fighter and knew what he wanted. Ryann was very strong in the beginning of the story, she had a goal and an interesting backstory. What fell flat for me was as the relationship developed the characters drove me batty. The entire story is made up of rhetorical internal monologues and misunderstandings. I hate misunderstandings, especially in excess. It can be fine if its resolved fairly quick, but EVERYTHING they did or said was a misunderstanding, which then was followed up with a rhetorical internal debate.
What kept me reading it (or listening) was that I really enjoyed the narrators. I normally don't care for dual narrators, but this worked for me. Well done on the actors part.
What kept me reading it (or listening) was that I really enjoyed the narrators. I normally don't care for dual narrators, but this worked for me. Well done on the actors part.
November 24, 2015
Oh fighter romance, will I ever be able to quit you? This one was a lot of fun. Here is the thing about fighter romance, the stories are often the same. There is nothing wrong with that, because well when I dive into a fighter romance I expect it to be the same. Head strong girl. Check. Sexy alpha fighter. Check. One or both of them are damaged. Check. The fun begins when the author decides to take these common attributes and makes them their own story. Such is the case here.
I love this series and I really can't wait for book 3, cause yes my dear friends there will be a book 3. I loved Aiden. I mean loved him, sure he was a dick in some cases but he gets put in his place by a kick ass Chiquita.
This was a fun ride. I enjoyed it immensely.
I love this series and I really can't wait for book 3, cause yes my dear friends there will be a book 3. I loved Aiden. I mean loved him, sure he was a dick in some cases but he gets put in his place by a kick ass Chiquita.
This was a fun ride. I enjoyed it immensely.
August 19, 2015
ARC given by Netgally for a honest review..
I read the first in this series and I TOTALLY loved it.. Couldn’t wait for Aiden’s book..
We first met Aiden “Disco Stick” Kruze in Win By Submission.. He is the son of a Senator and is tired of being under the watchful eye of everyone so he leaves and heads out.. becomes a MMA fighter..
Ryann is a PI who is desperate to get Aiden back to NYC so she can collect some major $$ so she can pay off the men who killed her dad before they kill her..
This book had lots of surprises and twists in it.. just like the first one.. I could not put this book down..
I truly hope we get more from this author..
I read the first in this series and I TOTALLY loved it.. Couldn’t wait for Aiden’s book..
We first met Aiden “Disco Stick” Kruze in Win By Submission.. He is the son of a Senator and is tired of being under the watchful eye of everyone so he leaves and heads out.. becomes a MMA fighter..
Ryann is a PI who is desperate to get Aiden back to NYC so she can collect some major $$ so she can pay off the men who killed her dad before they kill her..
This book had lots of surprises and twists in it.. just like the first one.. I could not put this book down..
I truly hope we get more from this author..
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