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Black Ops MMA #3
Captain
D.M. Davis’ CAPTAIN is a heart-wrenching, sexy contemporary romance full of forgiveness, second chances, and healing, and Book Three in the Black Ops MMA series.
Sometimes you have to break to become the person you're meant to be.
CAP:
I'm a bastard by birth.
Heartless by choice.
Love abandoned me a long time ago. Good riddance.
I have my family-by-choice. I don't need more.
Until she crept in, sank in deep, latched on, and stayed.
She's as broken as the day is long.
Yet I can't resist the pull to get her in my bed, in my heart, piecing me back together—for she's not the only one broken.
CHER:
I'm over men.
Destruction and pain are all they bring.
Been there. Done that. Check please.
Yet there is one—so many years later—who looks at me like I'm a goddess.
Who makes me feel like I have something to offer, that I'm exactly who he wants.
Can two lonely souls come together to discover the broken have more pieces to love, or will they pass on finding their forever love?
The Black Ops MMA books are integrated standalones with subplots that carry through from book 1 to book 4. For maximum enjoyment, I suggest the Black Ops MMA Series be read in order to fully experience the world and the characters who inhabit it, beginning with NO MERCY.
Intended for mature audiences. Some scenes may contain triggers.
Sometimes you have to break to become the person you're meant to be.
CAP:
I'm a bastard by birth.
Heartless by choice.
Love abandoned me a long time ago. Good riddance.
I have my family-by-choice. I don't need more.
Until she crept in, sank in deep, latched on, and stayed.
She's as broken as the day is long.
Yet I can't resist the pull to get her in my bed, in my heart, piecing me back together—for she's not the only one broken.
CHER:
I'm over men.
Destruction and pain are all they bring.
Been there. Done that. Check please.
Yet there is one—so many years later—who looks at me like I'm a goddess.
Who makes me feel like I have something to offer, that I'm exactly who he wants.
Can two lonely souls come together to discover the broken have more pieces to love, or will they pass on finding their forever love?
The Black Ops MMA books are integrated standalones with subplots that carry through from book 1 to book 4. For maximum enjoyment, I suggest the Black Ops MMA Series be read in order to fully experience the world and the characters who inhabit it, beginning with NO MERCY.
Intended for mature audiences. Some scenes may contain triggers.
ebook
First published April 16, 2021
62 people are currently reading
260 people want to read
About the author
D.M. Davis
28 books1,329 followersD.M. Davis is a Contemporary and New Adult Romance Author.
She is a Texas native, wife, and mother. Her background is Project Management, technical writing, and application development. D.M. has been a lifelong reader, and wrote poetry in her early life, but has found her true passion in writing about love and the intricate relationships between men and women.
She writes of broken hearts and second chances, of dreamers looking for more than they have and daring to reach for it.
D.M. believes it is never too late to make a change in your own life, to become the person you always wanted to be, but were afraid you were not worth the effort. You are worth it. Take a chance on you. You never know what’s possible if you don’t try. Believe in yourself as you believe in others, and see what life has to offer.
Visit her website for more details.
She is a Texas native, wife, and mother. Her background is Project Management, technical writing, and application development. D.M. has been a lifelong reader, and wrote poetry in her early life, but has found her true passion in writing about love and the intricate relationships between men and women.
She writes of broken hearts and second chances, of dreamers looking for more than they have and daring to reach for it.
D.M. believes it is never too late to make a change in your own life, to become the person you always wanted to be, but were afraid you were not worth the effort. You are worth it. Take a chance on you. You never know what’s possible if you don’t try. Believe in yourself as you believe in others, and see what life has to offer.
Visit her website for more details.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
November 22, 2022
all the Cap stars
I could swoon all day about how much I've loved this Black Ops MMA series and I fall for each hero just like any romance loving tramp. But Oh, Cap. I loved him when he was just a secondary character, the author made me super intrigued to know more about him and she delivered everything once we were inside his head.
There's no better story than when two broken people find each other and then find love.
Truly superb.
I could swoon all day about how much I've loved this Black Ops MMA series and I fall for each hero just like any romance loving tramp. But Oh, Cap. I loved him when he was just a secondary character, the author made me super intrigued to know more about him and she delivered everything once we were inside his head.
There's no better story than when two broken people find each other and then find love.
Truly superb.
April 19, 2021
This series just keeps getting more and more emotional!! Holy crap. I fell in love with Cap in Rowdy's book, and now being inside of his head and seeing all that he's gone through, all that he's survived, I love him even more!! And the way the loves Cher?! ALL THE YES.
This is a story of two truly broken people, who come together at the wrong time for the right love. Cap and Cher are both struggling with their past, and trying to overcome the absolute devastation they have both been through, and seeing where they fit now in the present. They definitely don't have it easy, but I love how they never gave up on one another. Cap was so patient with Cher, and after the horrible abuse she endured with her slimeball ex, it was just amazing to see how far she came.
I found it so interesting that our author didn't really care for Cher in the first few books in this series, and although I definitely had my problems with her, especially in Rowdy's book, Cher just owns my heart. She has had an extremely horrific life: she was abused at the hands of her father, and then was sold off as a teenager to her husband, who abused her in ways she never imagined. And not only that, but her two children often witnessed the abuse until Gabriel was old enough to literally kick him out of the house. It's through Gabriel that Cap and Cher meet, and though he has his own emotional baggage to deal with as well, they can't help but be drawn to each other. And by God, Cap is seriously the sweetest man in the world. He's also absolutely filthy and has such a gentle heart, and I love him so fiercely.
This is both a slow burn and a fast paced romance: their love is twelve years in the making, and their pasts often stand in their way, but once they finally get together? It is absolutely EVERYTHING. The way Cap loves her.. I just can't even describe it. He is the epitome of the perfect book boyfriend!
Although this is technically a standalone, I would definitely recommend reading the other books in the series before starting this one! And trust me, they are all absolutely amazing! I can't wait for more books in this series!
Trigger warming: Domestic violence & rape.
This is a story of two truly broken people, who come together at the wrong time for the right love. Cap and Cher are both struggling with their past, and trying to overcome the absolute devastation they have both been through, and seeing where they fit now in the present. They definitely don't have it easy, but I love how they never gave up on one another. Cap was so patient with Cher, and after the horrible abuse she endured with her slimeball ex, it was just amazing to see how far she came.
I found it so interesting that our author didn't really care for Cher in the first few books in this series, and although I definitely had my problems with her, especially in Rowdy's book, Cher just owns my heart. She has had an extremely horrific life: she was abused at the hands of her father, and then was sold off as a teenager to her husband, who abused her in ways she never imagined. And not only that, but her two children often witnessed the abuse until Gabriel was old enough to literally kick him out of the house. It's through Gabriel that Cap and Cher meet, and though he has his own emotional baggage to deal with as well, they can't help but be drawn to each other. And by God, Cap is seriously the sweetest man in the world. He's also absolutely filthy and has such a gentle heart, and I love him so fiercely.
This is both a slow burn and a fast paced romance: their love is twelve years in the making, and their pasts often stand in their way, but once they finally get together? It is absolutely EVERYTHING. The way Cap loves her.. I just can't even describe it. He is the epitome of the perfect book boyfriend!
Although this is technically a standalone, I would definitely recommend reading the other books in the series before starting this one! And trust me, they are all absolutely amazing! I can't wait for more books in this series!
Trigger warming: Domestic violence & rape.
April 15, 2021
4.5 Stars
Never would I have ever imagined that Cap’s story might actually become my favorite, but, OMG, out of the three books so far it totally did! Cap and Cher’s story packs a serious punch. It touched me. Deeply. Gave me chills. Goosebumps. Made me teary-eyed. Scream. Hurt. Swoon. Fan myself. It made me feel all that and more, partly in ways I never would have expected going in. NO MERCY and ROWDY were moving and emotional … but CAPTAIN fore sure takes the cake.
Cher and Cap’s love story takes time – years actually – to unfold. Never knowing a loving home, Cher traded one abusive situation for another when she escaped her abusive father as a teenager, only to fall into the arms of a man with a similar rotten character. Now, she’s finally free, but given the tons of baggage she carries, she’s only a shell of a woman when she meets Cap through her son, Rowdy …
But not only Cher has had a rough past. Cap has his own cross to bear too. It makes the slow pace of their evolving relationship all the more powerful, all the more gut-punching, while we are watching their broken pieces click into place, completing each other, nurturing and healing each other. It’s beautiful and unrushed, and once they finally cross that bridge it gets hella steamy and sizzling too!
While the previous books each did a lot of ground work for their sequels, I feel like it was less the case with this one. In fact, the names of the couple of the fourth book were rarely even mentioned. I kinda missed that this time around, yet again not, because that way I could solely focus on Cher and Cap’s journey that hurt me so good. Whatever the case may be, I’m here, ready for COWBOY, and hoping against all hope that this will not be the last story D.M. Davis writes about this wonderfully broken, tight-knit, chosen family that Cap created for the MMA fighters he surrounds himself with, because I. Need. MORE!
Never would I have ever imagined that Cap’s story might actually become my favorite, but, OMG, out of the three books so far it totally did! Cap and Cher’s story packs a serious punch. It touched me. Deeply. Gave me chills. Goosebumps. Made me teary-eyed. Scream. Hurt. Swoon. Fan myself. It made me feel all that and more, partly in ways I never would have expected going in. NO MERCY and ROWDY were moving and emotional … but CAPTAIN fore sure takes the cake.
Cher and Cap’s love story takes time – years actually – to unfold. Never knowing a loving home, Cher traded one abusive situation for another when she escaped her abusive father as a teenager, only to fall into the arms of a man with a similar rotten character. Now, she’s finally free, but given the tons of baggage she carries, she’s only a shell of a woman when she meets Cap through her son, Rowdy …
But not only Cher has had a rough past. Cap has his own cross to bear too. It makes the slow pace of their evolving relationship all the more powerful, all the more gut-punching, while we are watching their broken pieces click into place, completing each other, nurturing and healing each other. It’s beautiful and unrushed, and once they finally cross that bridge it gets hella steamy and sizzling too!
While the previous books each did a lot of ground work for their sequels, I feel like it was less the case with this one. In fact, the names of the couple of the fourth book were rarely even mentioned. I kinda missed that this time around, yet again not, because that way I could solely focus on Cher and Cap’s journey that hurt me so good. Whatever the case may be, I’m here, ready for COWBOY, and hoping against all hope that this will not be the last story D.M. Davis writes about this wonderfully broken, tight-knit, chosen family that Cap created for the MMA fighters he surrounds himself with, because I. Need. MORE!
April 8, 2021
I have genuinely spent the entire day typing up and then deleting and retyping this review, not because I have anything negative to say, I honestly don’t, this book was just so good that I’ve been left utterly speechless. Nothing I type up seems to do it justice.
Cap and Cher’s story is one hell of an emotional rollercoaster, I laughed, I cried, I screamed, I felt all the feels humanly possible. There were so many twists and turns within this book that I did not see coming and I was on the edge of my seat pretty much the whole way through.
I seriously couldn’t put the book down, to the point where I genuinely forgot to feed myself until about ten pm last night when my younger brother came downstairs to tell me off for not eating! I was just so caught up in the story I did not notice so much time had passed!
This story is a slow burn romance that takes place over twelve years, cap and Cher’s journey is long and hard, and there are some truly heart wrenching moments within the book. But it is so worth it!
The book does contain scenes of domestic abuse via flashback, mentions of rape and scenes of violence that some readers may find distressing.
I received an arc from Grey’s Promotions in exchange of an honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 23, 2021
This one will definitely break a heart. If you read the previous books, you are family with Cap. A tough near of a man with a heart of gold. His family is his fighters along with special spots for Gabriel and Frankie. This is his story. His heart was crushed a long time ago. He vowed to never fall again. Then there is Cheryl, beaten down first by her father then her husband. She lives with the fear from her past. Like a little mouse scared of her own shadow. She is broken and things she deserves to not be loved.
Two broken souls that need each other to heal. The story is emotional and had a few twists you don’t see coming. I have loved the set it but this may be the favorite. The relationship between Cap and Cher was a slow journey with a couple of stumbling blocks. It takes years. Cap’s patience was endearing. He was there when she needed him and he showed her she was needed. She was stronger than she thousand gave him stretehen he needed to lean on her. A beautiful love story
Two broken souls that need each other to heal. The story is emotional and had a few twists you don’t see coming. I have loved the set it but this may be the favorite. The relationship between Cap and Cher was a slow journey with a couple of stumbling blocks. It takes years. Cap’s patience was endearing. He was there when she needed him and he showed her she was needed. She was stronger than she thousand gave him stretehen he needed to lean on her. A beautiful love story
April 23, 2021
Captain
Wow. I’m literally speechless. I’m emotionally hungover. This wrenched all the tears out of me. This story was so achingly beautiful. Cap has my heart for good. I dunno how anyone will compete with that. Top read of 2021 for sure.
Wow. I’m literally speechless. I’m emotionally hungover. This wrenched all the tears out of me. This story was so achingly beautiful. Cap has my heart for good. I dunno how anyone will compete with that. Top read of 2021 for sure.
May 27, 2021
Wow... just, wow!
I admit I wasn’t Cher’s fan during the first two books but after seeing everything from her perspective, wow... poor Cheryl. She had such a hard life, my God, she needed a break. Thank God Cap came into her life.
Cheryl is Gabriel and Reese’s mom. Cap is Gabriel’s mma team owner and Reese’s boss. They’re are connected in a lot of ways and they are definitely a family by choice.
This book was just so heartbreaking... oh my goodness, the life these characters had, they deserve all the love they can get. I’m really in love with this series!
Can’t wait to read Landry’s story! I bet it’s going to be amazing just like the three previous books!!!
I admit I wasn’t Cher’s fan during the first two books but after seeing everything from her perspective, wow... poor Cheryl. She had such a hard life, my God, she needed a break. Thank God Cap came into her life.
Cheryl is Gabriel and Reese’s mom. Cap is Gabriel’s mma team owner and Reese’s boss. They’re are connected in a lot of ways and they are definitely a family by choice.
This book was just so heartbreaking... oh my goodness, the life these characters had, they deserve all the love they can get. I’m really in love with this series!
Can’t wait to read Landry’s story! I bet it’s going to be amazing just like the three previous books!!!
June 4, 2022
Captain
Overall Score ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heat Score🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
I don't know how D.M. Davis does this everytime. EVERYTIME! I always think this is her best one yet and then she throws another one at me. Just as soon as I think there is no way she can surprise me anymore, BAM! PLOT TWIST. So I'll just say, Cap is my favorite. You NEED to read this series
Overall Score ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heat Score🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
I don't know how D.M. Davis does this everytime. EVERYTIME! I always think this is her best one yet and then she throws another one at me. Just as soon as I think there is no way she can surprise me anymore, BAM! PLOT TWIST. So I'll just say, Cap is my favorite. You NEED to read this series
April 16, 2021
US / WW
Cap has closed himself off from love, after a huge loss. Cher is broken, having had a life one wouldn't wish upon their worst enemy. Can two equally damaged people find love with each other, and make a relationship work? Or is the damage each carries too much to get past?
I've been waiting eagerly for Cap's story ever since I read Gabriel's story, No Mercy. And damn, it was more than worth the wait, because he and Cher's story is a heartbreaking journey filled with pain, healing, and love. It spans years, literally, and is so gratifying to read as not just Cher and Cap found love with each other, and filled in some of the cracks inside that had worn on them for so long. I loved their story and can't wait for Cowboy's next.
ARC via Grey's Promotions for an honest review.
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April 13, 2021
Oh My Freaking Gawd!
Book 3 Has Blown My Mind 🤯
Chills
Goose Bumps
Blurry Eyes
Warm Fuzzies
Anger
Hurt
And More.....
That's just some of what I felt while reading this. I love all of these characters and each has their own special complex story that D.M. Davis does an amazing job of really making you feel part of these characters lives, I want to be loved by this broken, chosen family.
Although Mrs. Davis admits she herself wasn't to fond of Cher in her first to books of the series, and I hope that comes from a place as a mother and as someone who's never known domestic abuse. She learned to respect and even love her character.
As someone who has witnessed and been on the receiving end of an abusive father and this being a work of fiction I absolutely loved the heart put into this story. Cher the broken mother, escaping an abusive father as a broken child only to end up with a younger version of the very devil she was running from. She doesn't want to be a victim but she feels like she's failed the only people that matter to her, her kids. When Cap enters the picture in time to offer her son the guidance he'll need to nurture his healing nature and keep his anger in check as he's now thrown the devil out for good.
There connection is strong immediately, not in a I'm going to rip your clothes off but a I feel your sharp edges and broken pieces, but don't worry I've got tools, sanders, and glue for that. I've got you when your ready.
But they're not ready not yet and so like a young couple we get to watch them fumble through first love but with the experiences of adult responsibilities.
Honestly it's beautiful to see their broken pieces and lives all fit together and when they don't they take a little time to reshape that piece 🧩 and try again till it works.
I seriously don't know how I'm going to wait for the next one if they just keep getting better. Of course I'm not really sure it's better I think I just love that this world is getting bigger. ❤️
I have voluntarily left this review.
Book 3 Has Blown My Mind 🤯
Chills
Goose Bumps
Blurry Eyes
Warm Fuzzies
Anger
Hurt
And More.....
That's just some of what I felt while reading this. I love all of these characters and each has their own special complex story that D.M. Davis does an amazing job of really making you feel part of these characters lives, I want to be loved by this broken, chosen family.
Although Mrs. Davis admits she herself wasn't to fond of Cher in her first to books of the series, and I hope that comes from a place as a mother and as someone who's never known domestic abuse. She learned to respect and even love her character.
As someone who has witnessed and been on the receiving end of an abusive father and this being a work of fiction I absolutely loved the heart put into this story. Cher the broken mother, escaping an abusive father as a broken child only to end up with a younger version of the very devil she was running from. She doesn't want to be a victim but she feels like she's failed the only people that matter to her, her kids. When Cap enters the picture in time to offer her son the guidance he'll need to nurture his healing nature and keep his anger in check as he's now thrown the devil out for good.
There connection is strong immediately, not in a I'm going to rip your clothes off but a I feel your sharp edges and broken pieces, but don't worry I've got tools, sanders, and glue for that. I've got you when your ready.
But they're not ready not yet and so like a young couple we get to watch them fumble through first love but with the experiences of adult responsibilities.
Honestly it's beautiful to see their broken pieces and lives all fit together and when they don't they take a little time to reshape that piece 🧩 and try again till it works.
I seriously don't know how I'm going to wait for the next one if they just keep getting better. Of course I'm not really sure it's better I think I just love that this world is getting bigger. ❤️
I have voluntarily left this review.
April 9, 2021
I couldn’t sleep so I started reading, and I swear I didn’t stop!
It was pretty good, all their lives came together as a big happy family and I loved that.
I swear sometimes it’s hard for me to read about hard stuff, but this book handled it perfectly. Even if hard stuff was written, it wasn’t really touched or explained in detailed which I appreciate!
Captain has a heart of gold, PERIODT. He has more love than he thought he deserved and I loved that.
If I could summarize this book, I would say:
“Second chance/Redemption”
4.5/5, the only reason I couldn’t give it a 5 was due to EVERYTHING happening in a short amount of time! That sometimes f*cks me up.
It was pretty good, all their lives came together as a big happy family and I loved that.
I swear sometimes it’s hard for me to read about hard stuff, but this book handled it perfectly. Even if hard stuff was written, it wasn’t really touched or explained in detailed which I appreciate!
Captain has a heart of gold, PERIODT. He has more love than he thought he deserved and I loved that.
If I could summarize this book, I would say:
“Second chance/Redemption”
4.5/5, the only reason I couldn’t give it a 5 was due to EVERYTHING happening in a short amount of time! That sometimes f*cks me up.
January 14, 2024
D.M. Davis's "Captain," Book 3 in the Black Ops MMA series of sports-themed contemporary romance features an older couple getting a shot at true love despite their own emotional baggage. James "Cap" Durant and Cher Stone are relatable characters, and you can't help but root for their HEA. So much heat, angst, and heart-tugging emotion in this one, in addition to an underlying sense of family that is 100% due to who Cap is - the man finds his forever while building a family of his own choice, and Cher is just perfect for him. One thing I really love is that Davis has intertwined the core characters so organically in each subsequent book, so we get to see how everyone's lives are progressing beyond their own stories, and the author intrigues us with all these little subplots and side characters. I only recently discovered Davis, and I have been gobbling up these Black Ops tales as if my life depends on it! Loved this story so much, and I'm really looking forward to the rest!
April 16, 2021
Cap and Cher's story consumed me. I devoured it in one sitting and man was it an emotional roller coaster. I was crying 20% into the book and it didn't let up the entire way. Whether it be heartbreaking tears or happy tears this book really got me in all the feels. Both Cap and Cher had a rough and traumatic past for very different reasons but both were an emotional gut punch. My heart ached for both of them but they found their redemption, happy and true love with each other. I am loving this series but I have to say that you need to read No Mercy and Rowdy before you read Captain.
May 4, 2021
Cap and Cher's story will seriously punch gut you right in your feels. Over and over! They've both been through so much and found a way to come out on the other side. You will find yourself cheering Cher on through her struggles. I think this book is my favorite in the series so far!
February 21, 2022
I wasn't ready! Such a beautiful story.
April 16, 2021
I enjoyed reading about Cap and Cher. They have a troubled past with each other. You keep turning the pages to see if they'll be able to get past it.
April 24, 2022
James 'Cap' Durant owns a gym for his MMA fighters who family to him.Frankie Gabriel Rowdy Reese Cheryl Cowboy and men he served with. Cheryl is mother to Gabriel and Reese. Cap has been there for the family since Gabriel was 15 and thinks of him as a son and Frankie as a daughter. Cap had ever married because the girl he loved married his half brother. Cap has strong feelings for Cheryl Stone who has been hurt and mistreated all her life as child and wife. This story with lots of turns is a great read.D.M.Davis is has a great series here.
April 17, 2021
Captain is a highly emotional story about two broken souls' journey that maybe just maybe could give them a beautiful future. It's not instant because it takes over a period of many years which had me ready to tear my hair out, but it did destroy me since nothing was easy about this journey which packed a GIANT emotional punch. Cap has a lot of demons, and Cher has a lot of demons which are vicious to be honest so her scars are a bit more than his. I know it's not a contest but I'm just saying because she seems to be in a vicious circle in her life which broke my heart. I did love how these two were of my age bracket because there are days that I need to know if I ever decide to find a significant other at my age, there's hope LOL! D.M. Davis is so talented at dragging my emotions while keeping my focus held captive with her books that I'm telling you, you really need to read this series! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
September 21, 2024
Why did I ever doubt this book?
Oh. My. Gosh.
I should of knew it would be good. Him (43) and her (42) and just whirlwind of past, present and future.
This series is SO good!!!!
Diving immediately into Book 4!
Oh. My. Gosh.
I should of knew it would be good. Him (43) and her (42) and just whirlwind of past, present and future.
This series is SO good!!!!
Diving immediately into Book 4!
April 16, 2021
Captain is Book #3 in the Black Ops MMA series. Books are part of an interconnected series. For maximum enjoyment books should be read in order.
In D.M.’s author’s note she states that she herself didn’t even like Cher in No Mercy and Rowdy’s books and I have to say I thought that same thing as I started the book. I was wondering how D.M. was going to change my mind about Cher and make me feel empathetic towards her. And, I have to say she completely succeeded.
This love story is twelve years in the making. We are taken thru the past, told in duel perspectives, as we learn more about Cap and Cher’s lives before they met and what ultimately brings us to the present.
Cher was a teenage mother who suffered abuse at the hands of her father and then her husband. For years he chipped away at her soul until Gabriel was old enough and strong enough to throw him out of their lives.
Cap entered their lives when Gabriel showed up at his MMA gym looking for an outlet. A tenuous friendship began thru Cher and Cap when Gabriel was serving in the Army. But, Cap managed to sabotage them believing he didn’t have it in him to love again.
Over the next few years Cher ices Cap out. But, when Gabriel and Frankie welcome their son Maddox into the world, Gabriel tells Cap to make it right with Cher- their family needs them both. He proposes they try their hand at friendship again. Cher is still harboring all her insecurities from her past. But, Cap is determined to open her eyes to what they can be together.
Cap is a gentle giant with a huge heart, a dirty mouth, and all the right moves. Seriously. Hot AF. Panty melting chemistry.
The way he loves on Cher. Has her back. Accepts her past. Holds her secrets. How he opens himself to Gabriel, Reese, Frankie and Rowdy. Cementing them as family.
Gah, I am so in love with this book. I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel. I decided to just read a few chapters and before I knew it I was 50% in and forcing myself to take a break. And, the epilogue, holy ovary explosion.
In D.M.’s author’s note she states that she herself didn’t even like Cher in No Mercy and Rowdy’s books and I have to say I thought that same thing as I started the book. I was wondering how D.M. was going to change my mind about Cher and make me feel empathetic towards her. And, I have to say she completely succeeded.
This love story is twelve years in the making. We are taken thru the past, told in duel perspectives, as we learn more about Cap and Cher’s lives before they met and what ultimately brings us to the present.
Cher was a teenage mother who suffered abuse at the hands of her father and then her husband. For years he chipped away at her soul until Gabriel was old enough and strong enough to throw him out of their lives.
Cap entered their lives when Gabriel showed up at his MMA gym looking for an outlet. A tenuous friendship began thru Cher and Cap when Gabriel was serving in the Army. But, Cap managed to sabotage them believing he didn’t have it in him to love again.
Over the next few years Cher ices Cap out. But, when Gabriel and Frankie welcome their son Maddox into the world, Gabriel tells Cap to make it right with Cher- their family needs them both. He proposes they try their hand at friendship again. Cher is still harboring all her insecurities from her past. But, Cap is determined to open her eyes to what they can be together.
Cap is a gentle giant with a huge heart, a dirty mouth, and all the right moves. Seriously. Hot AF. Panty melting chemistry.
The way he loves on Cher. Has her back. Accepts her past. Holds her secrets. How he opens himself to Gabriel, Reese, Frankie and Rowdy. Cementing them as family.
Gah, I am so in love with this book. I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel. I decided to just read a few chapters and before I knew it I was 50% in and forcing myself to take a break. And, the epilogue, holy ovary explosion.
April 21, 2021
D.M.Davis’ “Captain: Black Ops MMA” novel is the third book in this romance series which tells the story of Captain James Durant (Cap) and his longing for Cheryl Stone (Cher). Cap is more than the owner of the MMA gym but is the father figure to all the fighters and employees. Cher is the mother of Gabriel and Reese (their stories were covered in Books one and two).
The characters in this story were open and mature; therefore overcoming their obstacles systematically. Both Cap and Cher took the approach of either we’re in or we’re out. Cap is untethered in his affection for his family, but is gun shy because of lost love years ago. Cher is broken and vulnerable due to physical and sexual abuse. She believes that no one in their right mind would want her with the baggage she carries. She also feels guilt over her children’s abuse as well.
I read all three books and feels the author embraces a formula in her writing: Powerful alpha males with caveman tendencies and broken, yet feisty, teary-eyed women who only need a good man and good sex to be whole again. Now there is nothing wrong with the formula because it is entertaining as escapism goes for the first book. I however think that the subject matter could be quite difficult for some. These people need counseling with their heavy duty mental issues. It's a bit hard to believe that their problems magically disappear because of a commitment.
I also just think that people broken or not should participate in some kind of dating ritual. MMA fighters in this series, don’t date??? The author has great writing skills, but needs to focus on nailing down the subject matter in reality. The formula needs variety and real resolution of abuses.
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it.
The characters in this story were open and mature; therefore overcoming their obstacles systematically. Both Cap and Cher took the approach of either we’re in or we’re out. Cap is untethered in his affection for his family, but is gun shy because of lost love years ago. Cher is broken and vulnerable due to physical and sexual abuse. She believes that no one in their right mind would want her with the baggage she carries. She also feels guilt over her children’s abuse as well.
I read all three books and feels the author embraces a formula in her writing: Powerful alpha males with caveman tendencies and broken, yet feisty, teary-eyed women who only need a good man and good sex to be whole again. Now there is nothing wrong with the formula because it is entertaining as escapism goes for the first book. I however think that the subject matter could be quite difficult for some. These people need counseling with their heavy duty mental issues. It's a bit hard to believe that their problems magically disappear because of a commitment.
I also just think that people broken or not should participate in some kind of dating ritual. MMA fighters in this series, don’t date??? The author has great writing skills, but needs to focus on nailing down the subject matter in reality. The formula needs variety and real resolution of abuses.
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it.
April 12, 2021
Hearts freed from barbed wire and shattered pieces put back together
Captain (Black Ops MMA Book 3) by D. M. Davis is a wonderfully well written romance of healing heartbreak and a shattered, traumatized heart. Captain is sweet and alpha protector and family oriented to his core. Believes he’s not capable of loving or being loved just as Cheryl feels unworthy after years of physical, mental and emotional abuse. These two might be getting a later start at love, but it was so totally meant to be. This author blew me away with the first two books of this series and hit this one out of the park. It’s emotionally charged and chemistry fueled healing at it’s very best.
The plot has all the feels embedded along with the past rearing it’s ugly head and putting it all to rest with a few bumps in the road along the way. Cher has support, love and unwavering devotion for the first time in her life and revels in it once she’s ready.
Overall, this emotionally compelling book with it’s well crafted characters made Captain an all around page turner, exciting a variety of ways. Cap and Cher’s connection was palpable from the start and unbreakable by the HEA. I really hope these two make appearance in the future, I hated to read The End, but I am sure there is more excitement and MMA entertainment in store for this series.
I read an ARC of this book via Hidden Gems and voluntarily share my review.
Captain (Black Ops MMA Book 3) by D. M. Davis is a wonderfully well written romance of healing heartbreak and a shattered, traumatized heart. Captain is sweet and alpha protector and family oriented to his core. Believes he’s not capable of loving or being loved just as Cheryl feels unworthy after years of physical, mental and emotional abuse. These two might be getting a later start at love, but it was so totally meant to be. This author blew me away with the first two books of this series and hit this one out of the park. It’s emotionally charged and chemistry fueled healing at it’s very best.
The plot has all the feels embedded along with the past rearing it’s ugly head and putting it all to rest with a few bumps in the road along the way. Cher has support, love and unwavering devotion for the first time in her life and revels in it once she’s ready.
Overall, this emotionally compelling book with it’s well crafted characters made Captain an all around page turner, exciting a variety of ways. Cap and Cher’s connection was palpable from the start and unbreakable by the HEA. I really hope these two make appearance in the future, I hated to read The End, but I am sure there is more excitement and MMA entertainment in store for this series.
I read an ARC of this book via Hidden Gems and voluntarily share my review.
April 17, 2021
Captain sucked me in since the very first page of the book, it was that good!
I didn’t have time to read the first two books author kindly send me so I jumped head first into this one, hoping the book won’t be too much connected to the previous books. I like that even though I didn’t read book 1 and 2 I still knew what was going on.
Cher & Cap’s story was very emotional, it was gripping, I couldn’t stop reading it and I can’t wait to read the previous books. Both MCs were a little broken, Cher had deeper emotional scars but both needed healing and I’m glad they find each other. It was a slow burn but once they came together it was sizzling hot!
Their story started years ago so there is a lot about their past and it takes a while to get to their present moment. I was missing the timeline, how much time has passed. It took a couple chapters to find that Cher is now 42 and Cap is a year older. Captain was actually one of (if not the only) book I read where characters were so old and even though I usually read about younger characters, I really enjoyed this one! It was a treat from the first to the last page!
4.5 stars. Half the star less because there were so many couples and their stories intervened with each other and with the Cher and Cap.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
ARC provided via Grey’s Promotions in exchange for an honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Full post: https://slovenianbookworm.wordpress.c...
I didn’t have time to read the first two books author kindly send me so I jumped head first into this one, hoping the book won’t be too much connected to the previous books. I like that even though I didn’t read book 1 and 2 I still knew what was going on.
Cher & Cap’s story was very emotional, it was gripping, I couldn’t stop reading it and I can’t wait to read the previous books. Both MCs were a little broken, Cher had deeper emotional scars but both needed healing and I’m glad they find each other. It was a slow burn but once they came together it was sizzling hot!
Their story started years ago so there is a lot about their past and it takes a while to get to their present moment. I was missing the timeline, how much time has passed. It took a couple chapters to find that Cher is now 42 and Cap is a year older. Captain was actually one of (if not the only) book I read where characters were so old and even though I usually read about younger characters, I really enjoyed this one! It was a treat from the first to the last page!
4.5 stars. Half the star less because there were so many couples and their stories intervened with each other and with the Cher and Cap.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
ARC provided via Grey’s Promotions in exchange for an honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Full post: https://slovenianbookworm.wordpress.c...
October 14, 2021
Another binge read from DM Davis! I couldn’t put it down (except to sleep)! I especially loved that the main characters were both in their 40s! So good! (As a reader in her 40s this made me so happy!)
I mean, another swoony, dominate, loving hero!! Captain was out of this world!
The heroine, Cher, was so lost and her truly horrific past was heartbreaking to read. She was never given a chance at a “normal” life until she was much older. Her mental anguish and self-loathing were understandable given her experiences but she deserved the world!
Talk about a slow burn BUT Davis never makes the reader wait too long. I think she effectively makes long periods of time move quickly because she doesn’t overwhelm the story with needless filler. She simply states how much time has past by leading into with critical details stated clearly so the reader understands why that much time has passed and the suffering of the characters.
It literally took years for Cap and Cher to finally get together and holy hell was it worth the wait. Some of the steamiest scenes with excellent dirty talk. Like boy howdy! Those two were fire together and the fact that we got it with more mature characters was 👩🏻🍳💋 (chef’s kiss)!
Cap treated Cher like a queen! And Cher was brave enough to open heart to him. They helped make each other’s dreams come true. Bliss! These two are everything together!! All the feels❤️
I mean, another swoony, dominate, loving hero!! Captain was out of this world!
The heroine, Cher, was so lost and her truly horrific past was heartbreaking to read. She was never given a chance at a “normal” life until she was much older. Her mental anguish and self-loathing were understandable given her experiences but she deserved the world!
Talk about a slow burn BUT Davis never makes the reader wait too long. I think she effectively makes long periods of time move quickly because she doesn’t overwhelm the story with needless filler. She simply states how much time has past by leading into with critical details stated clearly so the reader understands why that much time has passed and the suffering of the characters.
It literally took years for Cap and Cher to finally get together and holy hell was it worth the wait. Some of the steamiest scenes with excellent dirty talk. Like boy howdy! Those two were fire together and the fact that we got it with more mature characters was 👩🏻🍳💋 (chef’s kiss)!
Cap treated Cher like a queen! And Cher was brave enough to open heart to him. They helped make each other’s dreams come true. Bliss! These two are everything together!! All the feels❤️
April 9, 2021
I voluntarily read an arc of this book and am leaving a review. Jaw dropping amazingness contained inside! You have been warned! The more I read the deeper the story went. This book is blow your mind perfection. I wasn’t sure that I liked Cheryl from the past books, I never really thought of her as a match for Cap. DM Davis you completely schooled me and I couldn’t be happier to have been wrong. There are so many revelations in this book my head was spinning. The depth of these characters and their tragic lives grabbed me by the throat and left me gasping. The bedroom scenes...WOW! DM navigated this in a way that was sensitive and yet some of the hottest scenes you’ll ever read. Cap’s possessiveness, his strength and his ability to “see” Cher and make her feel her worth. Sigh! You’ll also get to revisit Gabriel and Rowdy, their soulmates and how interconnected their lives are with Cap’s story. This emotional journey was fraught with land mines and yet so powerfully and soulfully written, I couldn’t get enough. Read the first two books before this one for sure to fully understand Cap and Cher’s story’s and how far they’ve come. Gah, I want more! I could keep reading about this broken and yet whole together family forever!
April 14, 2021
I fell in love with this series when I read the first book. With each book in the series it keeps getting better and better! Captain had my heart and maybe my favorite in the series (so far). I love how its a MMA (favorite!) But it is also so much more. Captain had me up WAY past my bedtime and I am feeling the effects of 4 hours sleep today... because of course I also had to read the extra bonus that D.M. Davis added at the end. So worth being exhausted today! Captain has so much heartache, broken characters but shows how much these characters are a family and how much they love each other. This is a must read, they can be read as standalones but I would recommend reading in order so you get to know each couple, each character and the back story as they all interlink together. Amazing Job to D.M. Davis on this emotionally impacted story. WARNING!! This book does have triggers as in abuse (emotional, physical).
April 8, 2021
Wow, I was so excited to find out more about Cap after reading Rowdy, and I really wanted to know how he, Rowdy and Taylor dealt with the news that he is their father. However, this is more a sweet and heartbreaking story of Cap and Cher (Reese and Gabriel’s mother) spaning over 12 years. Love can only grow when they are both ready for it, and this story really shows that. Cher was horribly abused by her husband,a dn her journey to trust Cap and finally love him is beautiful. Whilst Cap’s anger, hurt and regret from his first love Vera has held him off from being able to be the man Cher needs until he is forced to.
Great book, and it really made me want to go back and reread Rowdy.
*TW domestic violence and rape TW*
•••I recieved a copy of this book for my honest review. All opinions are my own•••
Great book, and it really made me want to go back and reread Rowdy.
*TW domestic violence and rape TW*
•••I recieved a copy of this book for my honest review. All opinions are my own•••
April 21, 2021
Cap & Cher
Families, blood and team, have come together. Sister and brother have found their love. Now Mom and Cap can sit back and enjoy. He's felt like her kids are his. But when danger finds her Cap is who she calls and who comes to save her.
There are surprising connections, surprising memories, and enemies. While protecting Cher they become close--very close. With the hidden secrets will they be able to find their own happy ending?
Watching the secrets revealed, the ties get tighter, and love found by two who thought they were past a happy future makes for a great third book. Once again the characters are main parts of the enjoyment of the story. Seeing people overcome a vicious past and find a happy future leads to enjoyment for the reader. One more amazing story in the series.
Reviewed for Words Turn Me On.
Families, blood and team, have come together. Sister and brother have found their love. Now Mom and Cap can sit back and enjoy. He's felt like her kids are his. But when danger finds her Cap is who she calls and who comes to save her.
There are surprising connections, surprising memories, and enemies. While protecting Cher they become close--very close. With the hidden secrets will they be able to find their own happy ending?
Watching the secrets revealed, the ties get tighter, and love found by two who thought they were past a happy future makes for a great third book. Once again the characters are main parts of the enjoyment of the story. Seeing people overcome a vicious past and find a happy future leads to enjoyment for the reader. One more amazing story in the series.
Reviewed for Words Turn Me On.
April 13, 2021
What can I say?! I was in love with the first two books and this, this one I love just as much!! Cap is a broken man and Char is a broken woman. Both of them unlock the barbs around each others hearts and learn to truly love. It takes place in the same timeline as Rowdy’s book and gives you a unique perspective on Caps thoughts. Also, we get to see the reason behind Gabriel and Reese’s fathers, death. And how one momma was so strong. Well done! I love this whole family!! And I cant wait to read the rest of the family’s story. Black Opps MMA is truly a family by choice and I love that it is so relatable. Makes me love my extended family even more.
*I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 16, 2021
James "Cap" Durant is such a strong character from the first two books I am so glad we get to read his story. He is a strong natural protector and loves the family he has created for himself. He gave up his heart to a woman that tore it out, so he has been in his own form of happiness for years. Cheryl "Cher" Stone is the mom of one of Cap's fighters, Gabriel, but she is far from anything like her son. She has had a very hard life, and feels she is weak for it. These two have known each others for years, and have felt something. They both let their past pain rule them. Can love beat a grueling past? D.M. Davis thank you for this story, it completed No Mercy and Rowdy for me but left me craving information about a certain sister. Cannnot wait for the next Black Ops MMA Alfa!
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