What do you think?
Rate this book
More Than a Cowboy #1
Strong and Steady
They don't call him The Outlaw for nothing.
Grayson Green's nobody’s hero. He's just a hard-working cowboy who's taken his share of knockouts over the years. A man intent on keeping to himself and leaving his past behind. Then Emory walks into his life. She's different. She has no idea who he is or what he's done… and she wants him anyway. When someone from his past is prepared to take him down—and Emory along with him—he'll have to prove he's more than a cowboy.
Warning! This slow burn has a super protective, super hot alpha male who will stop at nothing to protect his girl.
This book was previously published as title Fight For Her.
Grayson Green's nobody’s hero. He's just a hard-working cowboy who's taken his share of knockouts over the years. A man intent on keeping to himself and leaving his past behind. Then Emory walks into his life. She's different. She has no idea who he is or what he's done… and she wants him anyway. When someone from his past is prepared to take him down—and Emory along with him—he'll have to prove he's more than a cowboy.
Warning! This slow burn has a super protective, super hot alpha male who will stop at nothing to protect his girl.
This book was previously published as title Fight For Her.
232 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 11, 2016
155 people are currently reading
901 people want to read
About the author
Vanessa Dare
3 books35 followersPen name of Vanessa Vale.
USA Today Bestselling author
Who doesn't love the romance of the old West? Vanessa Vale takes the sensual appeal of rugged cowboys a step further with her bestselling books set in the Montana Territory. They are much more than just sexy historical westerns. They're deliciously naughty reads that sometimes push the boundaries of fantasy. It's pure escapism with quite a few very hot, very alpha cowboys.
When she's not writing, Vanessa savors the insanity of raising two boys, is figuring out how many meals she can make with a pressure cooker, and teaches a pretty mean karate class. She considers herself to be remarkably normal, exceedingly introverted and fairly vanilla, which does not explain her steamy stories and her fascination with cowboys, preferably more than one at a time.
She lives in the Wild Wild West where there's an endless source of 'research' material.
USA Today Bestselling author
Who doesn't love the romance of the old West? Vanessa Vale takes the sensual appeal of rugged cowboys a step further with her bestselling books set in the Montana Territory. They are much more than just sexy historical westerns. They're deliciously naughty reads that sometimes push the boundaries of fantasy. It's pure escapism with quite a few very hot, very alpha cowboys.
When she's not writing, Vanessa savors the insanity of raising two boys, is figuring out how many meals she can make with a pressure cooker, and teaches a pretty mean karate class. She considers herself to be remarkably normal, exceedingly introverted and fairly vanilla, which does not explain her steamy stories and her fascination with cowboys, preferably more than one at a time.
She lives in the Wild Wild West where there's an endless source of 'research' material.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 219 reviews
September 1, 2020
It was cute. Too insta-love for my taste, but cute.
The narrator was good, she did both the man and the woman points of views vert well, you need talent to do that...
January 16, 2016
Check out this and my other reviews at My Blog, Facebook, Google+, Twitter and Pinterest
Copy received via netgalley in exchange for an honest review
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Cont. Romance
Series : - Stand Alone
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 4 stars
★Review★
Have to say, after having just read a book by this author under the other name she writes as, for her historical western erotica books, and not having enjoyed that, I was a bit wary about this.
But, I was so pleasantly surprised.
I loved this book. I loved the set up, the heroine and the hero, were great.
Even though the book is not very long, and only takes place over a short amount of time, the build up to the relationship managed to avoid that "insta love" feeling. It felt real and truly emotional.
Not quite a 5, since the suspense part of it was a touch messy, and also, I actually just wish it had been longer, as it was a lovely story with 2 characters that I just cared about and loved reading about.
Will definitely re read this and try out more of her contemporary books.
A great 4 stars.
Copy received via netgalley in exchange for an honest review
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Cont. Romance
Series : - Stand Alone
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 4 stars
★Review★
Have to say, after having just read a book by this author under the other name she writes as, for her historical western erotica books, and not having enjoyed that, I was a bit wary about this.
But, I was so pleasantly surprised.
I loved this book. I loved the set up, the heroine and the hero, were great.
Even though the book is not very long, and only takes place over a short amount of time, the build up to the relationship managed to avoid that "insta love" feeling. It felt real and truly emotional.
Not quite a 5, since the suspense part of it was a touch messy, and also, I actually just wish it had been longer, as it was a lovely story with 2 characters that I just cared about and loved reading about.
Will definitely re read this and try out more of her contemporary books.
A great 4 stars.
January 16, 2016
Emory is a divorcee who is cautiously entering the dating scene. She meets and is intrigued by Gray who is a former MMA fighter and trainer to her best friend's fiancée. There is an attraction between them but Gray decides that he wants something meaningful when he sees that she's not like the other women he's been around who want him for his notoriety. They take it slow and start to get to know each other. Of course, someone has to try and mess with their bubble of happiness. The story is decent and the development for it being a novella is impressive. It's on the longer side of the novella spectrum. There was a part where Emory takes the blame for something that made me legit roll my eyes but other than that it was pretty solid.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
June 2, 2021
Meh. This wasn't what I was expecting or hoping for. I did like that the H/h were both in their late 30s. It was a novella so you should expect some insta-love but this was ridiculous. There was too much internal dialogue and too much of it was spent with both H/h thinking that they weren't good enough for the other. Over and over and over. Just when I thought we were past that way of thinking, one of them would go off about how they weren't worthy of the other, or worries that they would get bored with them and leave. I expect more maturity out of characters who have lived almost 40 years of life. And the H spent too much time thinking about his sexual past and all the easy, casual sex he's had over the years, how the h is not like the other women. Like the fact that he's never brought a woman to his apartment is supposed to be this big deal and prove that she is special? At least he treated her well and took the time to get to know her. And the heat level was pretty tepid. I was expecting a smutty book but there wasn't any action until the last third and then only one scene and the rest were all fade to black. I guess I'm kinda grumpy today so this book go on all my nerves.
Safety
Safety
January 14, 2016
ARC received for review
Great novella with a beginning, middle and end. Plenty of history to not make it feel rushed.
I loved it. Hot MMA fighter who gets a case of insta-lust for a mature woman who's not sure she wants another relationship after her douche ex-husband. Gray was amazing sweet and took his time (yes, it was only a week) before getting Emory into bed. Plus there was a bad guy to find...total shocker to me who it was.
Great novella with a beginning, middle and end. Plenty of history to not make it feel rushed.
I loved it. Hot MMA fighter who gets a case of insta-lust for a mature woman who's not sure she wants another relationship after her douche ex-husband. Gray was amazing sweet and took his time (yes, it was only a week) before getting Emory into bed. Plus there was a bad guy to find...total shocker to me who it was.
January 20, 2016
Gray's an ex-soldier turned MMA champ, he spots Emory at a friend's engagement party and falls head over heels. Emory is a divorced mother of one and nursing practitioner, she is intrigued with Gray from the get go but is wary and can't understand what he could possibly see in her.
It was nice to see an older couple (late 30's, early 40's) get a book for a change. The relationship between Gray and Emory is sweet, he is very gentle with her letting things build at her pace.
Overall, I liked it, a short read with a little bit of drama and a sweet couple.
*Received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
It was nice to see an older couple (late 30's, early 40's) get a book for a change. The relationship between Gray and Emory is sweet, he is very gentle with her letting things build at her pace.
Overall, I liked it, a short read with a little bit of drama and a sweet couple.
*Received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
February 2, 2021
This book is available today!!!
Vanessa Vale does it with a cowboy, MMA fighter, MC, and second chance at love after a divorce.
Yup, all of that wrapped up in one incredible story.
Emory is divorced, her son just left for college and she isn't so sure about dating again, like ever.
"My dating skills weren't just rusty, they were stored in a time capsule from the late nineties."
Haha, how many of us women feel like that after years with a husband and kids. Do we even remember what it felt like, what you do out in the real world to attract a guy?!?! This made Emory so relatable. I felt her insecurities and nerves the entire time.
But...then she sees Grayson across the bar at her best friends engagement party.
"He wore a crisp white shirt, but it had snaps. A woman must have invented the concept of snaps on a man's shirt because with this guy, I wanted to grab both sides of it and rip it open, see the defined chest beneath. Lick it. Snap. Snap. Snap."
"He's drop-dead gorgeous, if you go for that bad-boy fighter-who's-a-cowboy-and-hot-as-holy-shit type."
Grayson is so tough, hard, rough but at the same time he is so understanding, patient, and honest with Emory. He can see through her to what she needs and wants and he gives it to her right away. I also really appreciated Emory's honesty with Grayson. There were no games, no guessing. She told him what was on her mind and how she was feeling. She told him what she wanted and what made her nervous. It was very refreshing for a romance novel! lol!
And why she is bare (down there)? You will have to read to find out but it is priceless. Seriously, funny.
The MC being involved in her story added to the intrigue and mystery. There was drama, trouble, and second chances at love.
Can't wait for Reed's story.
Instagram | My Blog | Facebook
Vanessa Vale does it with a cowboy, MMA fighter, MC, and second chance at love after a divorce.
Yup, all of that wrapped up in one incredible story.
Emory is divorced, her son just left for college and she isn't so sure about dating again, like ever.
"My dating skills weren't just rusty, they were stored in a time capsule from the late nineties."
Haha, how many of us women feel like that after years with a husband and kids. Do we even remember what it felt like, what you do out in the real world to attract a guy?!?! This made Emory so relatable. I felt her insecurities and nerves the entire time.
But...then she sees Grayson across the bar at her best friends engagement party.
"He wore a crisp white shirt, but it had snaps. A woman must have invented the concept of snaps on a man's shirt because with this guy, I wanted to grab both sides of it and rip it open, see the defined chest beneath. Lick it. Snap. Snap. Snap."
"He's drop-dead gorgeous, if you go for that bad-boy fighter-who's-a-cowboy-and-hot-as-holy-shit type."
Grayson is so tough, hard, rough but at the same time he is so understanding, patient, and honest with Emory. He can see through her to what she needs and wants and he gives it to her right away. I also really appreciated Emory's honesty with Grayson. There were no games, no guessing. She told him what was on her mind and how she was feeling. She told him what she wanted and what made her nervous. It was very refreshing for a romance novel! lol!
And why she is bare (down there)? You will have to read to find out but it is priceless. Seriously, funny.
The MC being involved in her story added to the intrigue and mystery. There was drama, trouble, and second chances at love.
Can't wait for Reed's story.
Instagram | My Blog | Facebook
Want to read
January 14, 2016Sounds pretty good
Author said safe but I'm waiting for a price drop. 3.99 is high for a novella
Author said safe but I'm waiting for a price drop. 3.99 is high for a novella
March 10, 2017
I was pleasantly surprised by Fight For Her. I have never read anything by this author and thought she delivered a sweet romance sprinkled with a bit drama, suspense and ended with a HEA for Emory and Gray.
Gray was a perfect Alpha Male. He found Emory and knew she was the one. He was always there to protect her whether it was from his family and friends. There was instant attraction but this couple built their relationship outside the bedroom first then took it to a more physical level.
Emory is a smart woman although a bit naive when it comes to a relationship. I liked that she was an older women, late thirties, who is now on her own. She is settled in her carrier and now has time for herself. She deserved to be pampered.
While I liked the book and reading about their courtship, I thought it raced a bit towards the end. Devoting a little more time in the later chapters and this could have been a 5 star read for me.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Gray was a perfect Alpha Male. He found Emory and knew she was the one. He was always there to protect her whether it was from his family and friends. There was instant attraction but this couple built their relationship outside the bedroom first then took it to a more physical level.
Emory is a smart woman although a bit naive when it comes to a relationship. I liked that she was an older women, late thirties, who is now on her own. She is settled in her carrier and now has time for herself. She deserved to be pampered.
While I liked the book and reading about their courtship, I thought it raced a bit towards the end. Devoting a little more time in the later chapters and this could have been a 5 star read for me.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
January 23, 2016
4.5 slow and steady wins the race stars. I love alpha males so Grayson Green hit all those buttons being an ex-MMA fighter and trainer. Emory is a divorced, scorned mother of one and isn't looking for anything. The first meeting comes in the place of Grayson saving Emory from a particular awful engagement with a guy who couldn't take a hint. From there the story progresses through both of his and her point of view. While I tend to like explosive, in-your-face kind of whirlwind romances, this story is a slow build and burn between the two that was done well.
Grayson is clever, vigilant, honest, patient and caring. He was mature and smart enough to know that if he wanted a shot with Emory that he was going to have to take it slow. He paid close attention to her physical cues as well as what she said and didn't say. He did right by her and waited until she was ready to move things further between them. While Grayson's aggressive and possessive, he's also able to reign in his temper and needs in order to give what Emory what she needs.
Emory is hardworking, sweet, honest, compassionate and intelligent. When her ex-husband left her high and dry for a new, younger woman, she held it together to give her teenage son the support and structure he needed. She put her own needs aside to attend to her son which shows she's not only a great women but also a fabulous parent. She's skittish and not big into confrontation which is why Grayson has to take his time to work his charm on her.
There's some added tension to the story with Grayson's father and Emory's house being broken into but there isn't too much over the top drama. Grayson works for the chance to be with Emory and that is something I really enjoyed seeing. He knew she was worth it and so kept himself in check. The novel is a reminder that a divorce isn't the end of the world, that exteriors don't always tell you the full story of a person and that love is for everyone.
Grayson is clever, vigilant, honest, patient and caring. He was mature and smart enough to know that if he wanted a shot with Emory that he was going to have to take it slow. He paid close attention to her physical cues as well as what she said and didn't say. He did right by her and waited until she was ready to move things further between them. While Grayson's aggressive and possessive, he's also able to reign in his temper and needs in order to give what Emory what she needs.
Emory is hardworking, sweet, honest, compassionate and intelligent. When her ex-husband left her high and dry for a new, younger woman, she held it together to give her teenage son the support and structure he needed. She put her own needs aside to attend to her son which shows she's not only a great women but also a fabulous parent. She's skittish and not big into confrontation which is why Grayson has to take his time to work his charm on her.
There's some added tension to the story with Grayson's father and Emory's house being broken into but there isn't too much over the top drama. Grayson works for the chance to be with Emory and that is something I really enjoyed seeing. He knew she was worth it and so kept himself in check. The novel is a reminder that a divorce isn't the end of the world, that exteriors don't always tell you the full story of a person and that love is for everyone.
January 27, 2021
This book was such a good alpha hero and strong heroine who were strong and so amazing. Emory was a strong independent single mother who only had been with her ex-husband in the last decade or so, but she knew now that her son was grown that it was time to move forward in the next stages in her life whatever that may be. She wasn’t that old at only 38 years old she knew that times and dating has changed but she still wasn’t looking until she saw Gray. Gray is a retired MMA fighter who now trains other fighters, owns his own gym, and knows exactly what he is looking for and that isn’t one nights any more, he wanted something that meant more, and he felt it instantly when he met Emory. Emory was a little hesitant at first because Gray was intense and their chemistry was so strong, so he patiently waited for her to be ready and it didn’t take too long. Demons from his past still haunt him and he thinks he should let Emory go before he taints her life, but he can’t let her go and as selfish as that may be she doesn’t want him to let her go either. This was a fast read for me because I couldn’t put it down because I wanted to see what happened next and I really enjoyed it because they were a little older than most romance book couples and they knew exactly what they wanted in this stage of life so there wasn’t any back-and-forth wishy-washy stuff. I can’t wait for Reed’s story next.
January 12, 2016
I, like most middle-aged women, am a sucker for a hot MMA fighter. Of course, I grabbed the chance to read Naked Choke. Instalove, hot MMA fighter, and an older heroine? Where do I sign up? Naked Choke is a quick read that I definitely recommend to heat up a boring Sunday afternoon; especially – brrrr – cold Winter afternoons.
I loved that Emory was older, although 38 is starting to seem young in my life! I did find her internal monologue too long and verging on boring. She’s a very accomplished woman and yet she’s insecure and shy. I found her awkwardness with Grayson a bit hard to swallow. What can I say about Grayson? Loved him! I liked the banter between the two of them, but there was too much thinking in between. The end was also a bit too abrupt for me – almost like the writer was rushing to meet a deadline.
Overall a quick, fun read.
I loved that Emory was older, although 38 is starting to seem young in my life! I did find her internal monologue too long and verging on boring. She’s a very accomplished woman and yet she’s insecure and shy. I found her awkwardness with Grayson a bit hard to swallow. What can I say about Grayson? Loved him! I liked the banter between the two of them, but there was too much thinking in between. The end was also a bit too abrupt for me – almost like the writer was rushing to meet a deadline.
Overall a quick, fun read.
March 13, 2017
Have to admit I didn't think I would like a romance featuring an MMA fighter. But I totally did! Perhaps it was because Grayson is no longer a fighter but now a trainer so the story didn't totally revolve around the MMA world. Whatever the case, I really enjoyed this romance between Gray and Emory. Gray just wanted someone to see him and not his fame which was perfect because Emory had no idea at all he was famous. And Emory hadn't dated anyone since her divorce and frankly hadn't been interested in doing so, until Gray. I really enjoyed the "slow" approach Gray took with Emory even if technically it was only a week. Overall just a great romance novel. Also liked that the characters were a bit older than the norm but they didn't dwell too much on their age.
I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED AN ADVANCE READER COPY OF THIS BOOK.
I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED AN ADVANCE READER COPY OF THIS BOOK.
January 12, 2016
Emory wanted to flee her friends engagement party, especially after meeting a man who is giving her every pick up line made to man. Fortunately she is rescued by Grayson Green, he seems to sense a need for a rescue. Gray wants to get to know Emory better, but he senses she is not ready and wants her to be on the same page when he makes his move. Emory has no clue that Gray is a former MMA champion and it makes her all the more intriguing, but someone is stalking Emory and Gray wants to figure out who before it is too late.
Loved the chemistry in this story. Gray oozes sensual man. This was such a fun read, definitely reread worthy.
Loved the chemistry in this story. Gray oozes sensual man. This was such a fun read, definitely reread worthy.
Read
February 25, 20211.5 stars!
I can't believe I'm saying this butttttt the hero in this was WAY too nice (I know I know, don't hate me). In real life a good guy and consent is important. But I don't want to read about them. I like my heros obsessive, possessive and alpha with a bit of darkness and brokenness. I like my heroines with a steel backbone but is able to be vulnerable for her man. The heroine here seemed like one of those people that when you shake their hand its like a limp noodle and I just found her lacking a personality. This wasn't a bad book. It just wasn't my jam.
I can't believe I'm saying this butttttt the hero in this was WAY too nice (I know I know, don't hate me). In real life a good guy and consent is important. But I don't want to read about them. I like my heros obsessive, possessive and alpha with a bit of darkness and brokenness. I like my heroines with a steel backbone but is able to be vulnerable for her man. The heroine here seemed like one of those people that when you shake their hand its like a limp noodle and I just found her lacking a personality. This wasn't a bad book. It just wasn't my jam.
January 13, 2016
I loved that Gray was a man of action especially where his woman's safety is concerned, "rounding the couch, I told Reed her address to call the police as I bolted for the emergency stairwell. Eff the slow elevator. Taking the steps two and three at a time, I continued to reassure her while Reed got on the horn with 9-1-1..." I enjoyed this book, Gray was strong, alpha and he had the most caring side.
March 21, 2016
3.5 stars.
Overall I really enjoyed the angst free, sexy sweet romance of Emory and Gray. What I thought was lacking was that Simon just kind of dropped out of the story when it seemed like he and Emory were good friends, the Casale plot/suspense plot was really easily and quickly resolved, and I think Gray's dad was a bloody mess (character-wise) and it was totally left hanging. Outside of that it was fun enough, just not exactly polished.
Overall I really enjoyed the angst free, sexy sweet romance of Emory and Gray. What I thought was lacking was that Simon just kind of dropped out of the story when it seemed like he and Emory were good friends, the Casale plot/suspense plot was really easily and quickly resolved, and I think Gray's dad was a bloody mess (character-wise) and it was totally left hanging. Outside of that it was fun enough, just not exactly polished.
February 29, 2016
I really liked this book. I loved the idea of a woman with a college aged child dating again. Plus the drama worked well. Very enjoyable.
***copy provided by NetGalley
***copy provided by NetGalley
March 19, 2017
Readers who enjoy couples that are more seasoned will find themselves charmed by the sweet and sensual burgeoning relationship between the shy Emory, with her low self-esteem issues, and the strong-willed and protective Gray, who's bored with superficial encounters based on his fame. Theirs is a slow moving relationship in which through every word and deed Gray reminds Emory of her innate sensuality while she shows him her love for the man he is instead of the persona he created. Throw in some outside interferences due to his abusive father and her newfound mafia neighbors and you end up with a story juggling elements that don't always fit seamlessly together but ends up delivering a HEA in the end.
Emory met and married quickly during her college years so hasn't had much experience with sex beyond the husband who recently left her for someone younger while making her feel inadequate. Her self-esteem is at an all-time low due to his belittling words which leaves her with little desire to be with anyone expect for what's in her bedside table. For so long she saw herself as only a mom with her son being her main concern, but with his leaving home she can now find a life of her own...and perhaps a new love if she can just be brave and bold enough to grab on to the sweet and sexy former MMA champ who rushes to her rescue at a wedding. Emory's a likable woman but her self-esteem issues lead to awkward talk and her rushing to believe the worst. It takes a lot of gentle handling from Gray to put her at ease but once she finally takes the plunge she finds out what she'd been missing throughout her boring marriage. With her sexual liberation I had hoped she would've also found strength at protecting herself instead of cowering and letting others defend her. She's sweet and honest though, with every one of her emotions easily seen, which is exactly what Gray needs after years of being liked for his fame instead of who he is inside.
Gray had a harsh childhood of abuse at the hands of a vile man who was left untouched by the law despite his numerous crimes. All the blood and bruises though led him to fame in the MMA and becoming more than his father could ever hope to be. His father's hatred never stopped as he constantly picks apart his son's self-esteem every chance he gets, dirtying up the life Gray has made for himself. After years of superficiality with his partners he's shocked by how powerful his feelings are for the shy and demure Emory as he's never had to work so hard to get the attention of a woman before. He may feel unworthy of her but he relishes being her hero and getting to introduce her to the delights of the bedroom as he takes his time getting there which proves that all good things come to those who wait. Gray is sexy and rugged with strong Alpha tendencies that don't seem to bother Emory as he's the one she counts on whenever she's afraid. The pain his father inflicted on him was awful and I hated him still letting his father affect his life after all he's accomplished.
This was a story that moved a bit slowly at times despite my being charmed by the sweetness of Gray and Emory's relationship. I could understand Gray moving slowly with Emory as her self-esteem issues ran deep but it still made for a lot of frustration as it felt like a glacial pace at times. Once they finally culminated their relationship though it resulted in some scorching encounters that showed him to be a champ not only in the ring but in the bedroom too. Gray's issues with his father would've been more than enough angst to make the HEA rewarding as it was a heartbreaking situation. That's why I was equally frustrated by the author's inclusion of the mafia theme as it felt so out of place as did the reason behind the danger to Emory. This element was jarring to the story and unnecessary in my opinion. Ultimately though it's Gray who kept me fully invested in this story as I liked the gruff fighter and his care and concern for the gentle soul he's brought into his world.
3.75 STARS!
Emory met and married quickly during her college years so hasn't had much experience with sex beyond the husband who recently left her for someone younger while making her feel inadequate. Her self-esteem is at an all-time low due to his belittling words which leaves her with little desire to be with anyone expect for what's in her bedside table. For so long she saw herself as only a mom with her son being her main concern, but with his leaving home she can now find a life of her own...and perhaps a new love if she can just be brave and bold enough to grab on to the sweet and sexy former MMA champ who rushes to her rescue at a wedding. Emory's a likable woman but her self-esteem issues lead to awkward talk and her rushing to believe the worst. It takes a lot of gentle handling from Gray to put her at ease but once she finally takes the plunge she finds out what she'd been missing throughout her boring marriage. With her sexual liberation I had hoped she would've also found strength at protecting herself instead of cowering and letting others defend her. She's sweet and honest though, with every one of her emotions easily seen, which is exactly what Gray needs after years of being liked for his fame instead of who he is inside.
Gray had a harsh childhood of abuse at the hands of a vile man who was left untouched by the law despite his numerous crimes. All the blood and bruises though led him to fame in the MMA and becoming more than his father could ever hope to be. His father's hatred never stopped as he constantly picks apart his son's self-esteem every chance he gets, dirtying up the life Gray has made for himself. After years of superficiality with his partners he's shocked by how powerful his feelings are for the shy and demure Emory as he's never had to work so hard to get the attention of a woman before. He may feel unworthy of her but he relishes being her hero and getting to introduce her to the delights of the bedroom as he takes his time getting there which proves that all good things come to those who wait. Gray is sexy and rugged with strong Alpha tendencies that don't seem to bother Emory as he's the one she counts on whenever she's afraid. The pain his father inflicted on him was awful and I hated him still letting his father affect his life after all he's accomplished.
This was a story that moved a bit slowly at times despite my being charmed by the sweetness of Gray and Emory's relationship. I could understand Gray moving slowly with Emory as her self-esteem issues ran deep but it still made for a lot of frustration as it felt like a glacial pace at times. Once they finally culminated their relationship though it resulted in some scorching encounters that showed him to be a champ not only in the ring but in the bedroom too. Gray's issues with his father would've been more than enough angst to make the HEA rewarding as it was a heartbreaking situation. That's why I was equally frustrated by the author's inclusion of the mafia theme as it felt so out of place as did the reason behind the danger to Emory. This element was jarring to the story and unnecessary in my opinion. Ultimately though it's Gray who kept me fully invested in this story as I liked the gruff fighter and his care and concern for the gentle soul he's brought into his world.
3.75 STARS!
March 8, 2017
Previously published under the title Naked Choke, this review is based on the updated and renamed version, Fight For Her.
Emory is a divorced mother of one grown up son and after four years she feels she is ready to take a chance on dating. But having only ever having one relationship in her nearly forty years, she was slow to notice that the hot guy she had been eying up, was interested in her.
Grayson Green is a former MMA champion, now retired and making a go of his new gym and personal training services. It was whilst he was attending an engagement party of one of his clients that he sees Emory for the first time. Not feeling that he is good enough for this beautiful but shy woman, he knows he needs to stay away. However the pull between them is too strong to ignore and he knows he must tread carefully so as not to scare Emory away.
Although this was a kind of insta love it was a slow build storyline that covered the week and a bit of their getting together. The chemistry and attraction between them was tangible and exciting to witness and when they finally submitted to their passion, the steam was hissing off the kindle.
There was a sub story to add some angst and suspense although I did find some of this too much of a set of coincidences to a certain extent to make it fully believable. There was also a red herring thrown in which didn’t really work for me. However the romance and passion element of this story was an absolute winner.
Overall a good romance story that I loved, especially as it was in relation to an older couple (late thirties and early forties). It kept me engaged and committed throughout. Four stars.
Copy kindly provided by the author to Foxylutely Books blog in exchange for an honest review
Emory is a divorced mother of one grown up son and after four years she feels she is ready to take a chance on dating. But having only ever having one relationship in her nearly forty years, she was slow to notice that the hot guy she had been eying up, was interested in her.
Grayson Green is a former MMA champion, now retired and making a go of his new gym and personal training services. It was whilst he was attending an engagement party of one of his clients that he sees Emory for the first time. Not feeling that he is good enough for this beautiful but shy woman, he knows he needs to stay away. However the pull between them is too strong to ignore and he knows he must tread carefully so as not to scare Emory away.
Although this was a kind of insta love it was a slow build storyline that covered the week and a bit of their getting together. The chemistry and attraction between them was tangible and exciting to witness and when they finally submitted to their passion, the steam was hissing off the kindle.
There was a sub story to add some angst and suspense although I did find some of this too much of a set of coincidences to a certain extent to make it fully believable. There was also a red herring thrown in which didn’t really work for me. However the romance and passion element of this story was an absolute winner.
Overall a good romance story that I loved, especially as it was in relation to an older couple (late thirties and early forties). It kept me engaged and committed throughout. Four stars.
Copy kindly provided by the author to Foxylutely Books blog in exchange for an honest review
February 4, 2021
Ever since Emory’s divorce a decade earlier, she has focused on two things in her life and that is establishing herself in her career and her son. She has never made the effort to allow another man into her life, but she since her son has left to pursue his secondary education she is wondering if now is the time. When she attended her friends’ engagement party, she had no idea that her attempts to thwart the attentions of one man would lead her to the arms of another.
Gray is not only a cowboy, but he has also transitioned from his career as a MMA fighter to a gym owner. He was enchanted by her before he even met her and now, he just needs to convince her to take a chance on him and love.
Gray is patient yet determined while Emory wasn’t going to let her uncertainty stand in their way. Hot chemistry and a little intrigue make this an enjoyable story.
Gray is not only a cowboy, but he has also transitioned from his career as a MMA fighter to a gym owner. He was enchanted by her before he even met her and now, he just needs to convince her to take a chance on him and love.
Gray is patient yet determined while Emory wasn’t going to let her uncertainty stand in their way. Hot chemistry and a little intrigue make this an enjoyable story.
April 15, 2024
Strong and Steady
by Vanessa Vale
⭐️3
🌶️2
💧0
Ok I going to say it… the MMC was just too nice! lol he was super sweet and caring and well a little boring if I’m honest. The FMC has all these things happen to her that are just to unrealistic for an innocent woman. So either she’s got a past or the MMC isn’t as nice as he seems. I don’t know it was just a little strange IMO
#strongandsteady #vanessavale #audiobook #bookaholic #readingtime #bookshelf #instabooks #bookblogger #bookreview #booktok #reading #booklover #bookworm #booknerd #goodreads #aussiebookstagrammers #aussies #australianreaders #darkromance #reading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #instabook #booksofinstagram #booksarelife #spicybooklover
by Vanessa Vale
⭐️3
🌶️2
💧0
Ok I going to say it… the MMC was just too nice! lol he was super sweet and caring and well a little boring if I’m honest. The FMC has all these things happen to her that are just to unrealistic for an innocent woman. So either she’s got a past or the MMC isn’t as nice as he seems. I don’t know it was just a little strange IMO
#strongandsteady #vanessavale #audiobook #bookaholic #readingtime #bookshelf #instabooks #bookblogger #bookreview #booktok #reading #booklover #bookworm #booknerd #goodreads #aussiebookstagrammers #aussies #australianreaders #darkromance #reading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #instabook #booksofinstagram #booksarelife #spicybooklover
February 10, 2021
Like many others, I liked the angst, the passion, and that it wasn't about younger people. Two opposite that are drawn together like magnets. In the book world, it is nice not to have another "copy-cat" book/story-line. Vanessa Vale has a knack for bringing her characters to life--even with the good, the bad, and the oh so sexy!
April 26, 2017
So, since this is Book 1, can we assume there will be a book 2 at some point?
April 19, 2024
Audible listen.
A quick listen with a good plot and crazy insta love!!
A quick listen with a good plot and crazy insta love!!
March 10, 2017
Fight For Her wasn't what I was expecting it to be. I have read a lot of MMA series, so I thought I would get the same old story-line. I was pleasantly surprised with this one. I thought it was really sweet and different.
What I really loved about this book is that the two main characters are a bit older than you usually see. Emory is 38 divorcee with a son who has just left for college. She's been out of the dating scene for a long time. Grayson is a retired MMA champion who has never found "the one". For both of them, the attraction was instant. I just loved that these two were in the "next" phase of their lives and found a wonderful HEA. I also really enjoyed the slow build to their first kiss. I think that is what really added to the sweetness factor of the story. There is also a little bit of a mystery just to make the story more interesting.
My only complaint about the story is that it takes place over about a week, so the professions of love come a bit fast. I would have liked it to be a bit longer but since the next book is about Reid, I'm hoping I get to see more of Emory and Gray in the next book. This is a great first book in a series. I highly recommend it.
What I really loved about this book is that the two main characters are a bit older than you usually see. Emory is 38 divorcee with a son who has just left for college. She's been out of the dating scene for a long time. Grayson is a retired MMA champion who has never found "the one". For both of them, the attraction was instant. I just loved that these two were in the "next" phase of their lives and found a wonderful HEA. I also really enjoyed the slow build to their first kiss. I think that is what really added to the sweetness factor of the story. There is also a little bit of a mystery just to make the story more interesting.
My only complaint about the story is that it takes place over about a week, so the professions of love come a bit fast. I would have liked it to be a bit longer but since the next book is about Reid, I'm hoping I get to see more of Emory and Gray in the next book. This is a great first book in a series. I highly recommend it.
March 16, 2021
MMA CHAMPION AND THE NURSE PRACTIONER
While this story was previously released (Fight For Her)--I will admit that I had missed reading it. Like many others, I liked the angst, the passion, and that it wasn't about younger people. Two opposite that are drawn together like magnets. In the book world, it is nice not to have another "copy-cat" book/story-line. Vanessa Vale has a knack for bringing her characters to life--even with the good, the bad, and the, oh so sexy! This story is about Grayson "Gray" Green, The Outlaw, and Emory.
Emory is a divorced woman, left to raise her son, who is now in the Naval Academy. She didn't just become a nurse; she is a nurse practitioner, having a bachelor's and master's degree in nursing. When it comes to men, she is entirely naïve and out of the dating game. So at her friend's engagement party, dealing with one man might be easy, but meeting Gray when he comes to rescue her and act as her date is another.
Gray lived a crappy childhood, lost his mother in an accident, and put up with an abusive father. A gym teacher helped Gray with his anger, taking him to a gym where he learned how to fight properly and several martial arts. After high school, he went into the Marines, and after that, he fought professionally. Now, he owns a gym and trains fighters.
The plot will have Gray and Emory meeting at the engagement party, but Emory flummoxes gray. She is shy, reserved, but not afraid to take a stand—and she honestly does not know who is his—that he is famous. That is the most refreshing thing to him—she doesn't come on to him—and she is cautious but shows interest in him, Gray, a man, not an image. "Emory had lived, survived, and still was so innocent in so many ways."
"Trust me, I'm right where I want to be. I'm not looking either, but I'm not not looking as well."
"I'm glad you're wary because that means you protect yourself. I understand because that's my job, to help people defend themselves. I'm also glad you feel safe with me. Like I said the other night, I won't hurt you. No one will hurt you when you're with me. That's a promise."
The story will be the relationship of Gray and Emory—but they take things slow and easy. But this story also shows how caring Emory is for others—like Jackson Baker. Helping out a hurt child doesn't go unnoticed by Jackson's grandfather, Quake Baker, and he lets her know that she has his protection. When Emory falls into danger, someone breaking into her apartment, she will be rescued by Gray and Reed, but she will also have Quake coming to her aid.
"You have no idea, do you? The effect you have one people." –Gray
"Where have you been all this time?" I whispered, wondered."—Emory
"Waiting for you."--Gray
This story has the good, the bad, and the ugly of people. Emory's relationship with her ex has her doubting herself as a woman and not feeling comfortable entering a relationship. It will have Gray showing her, he is patient, and he isn't running away. It has a father who thrives on using threats and scares to manipulate people. It has a motorcycle club placing Emory in their protection—and dealing with troublemakers. But best of all, it is a beautiful, slow-burning, all-encompassing, heart-throbbing romance between two people, Gray and Emory.
"She was fresh air and sunshine and light and brightness, and she'd directed it all right one me.
The attraction, the chemistry between us was explosive, but it was more than that. It was some kind of connection that went bone-deep, soul-deep that I knew I would never be able to escape. I didn't want to."
As a loyal reader of Ms. Vale's books for years, there is just something extra about this new series that I love—the connection of the characters is so deep and moving--I can't wait for more in the series.
While this story was previously released (Fight For Her)--I will admit that I had missed reading it. Like many others, I liked the angst, the passion, and that it wasn't about younger people. Two opposite that are drawn together like magnets. In the book world, it is nice not to have another "copy-cat" book/story-line. Vanessa Vale has a knack for bringing her characters to life--even with the good, the bad, and the, oh so sexy! This story is about Grayson "Gray" Green, The Outlaw, and Emory.
Emory is a divorced woman, left to raise her son, who is now in the Naval Academy. She didn't just become a nurse; she is a nurse practitioner, having a bachelor's and master's degree in nursing. When it comes to men, she is entirely naïve and out of the dating game. So at her friend's engagement party, dealing with one man might be easy, but meeting Gray when he comes to rescue her and act as her date is another.
Gray lived a crappy childhood, lost his mother in an accident, and put up with an abusive father. A gym teacher helped Gray with his anger, taking him to a gym where he learned how to fight properly and several martial arts. After high school, he went into the Marines, and after that, he fought professionally. Now, he owns a gym and trains fighters.
The plot will have Gray and Emory meeting at the engagement party, but Emory flummoxes gray. She is shy, reserved, but not afraid to take a stand—and she honestly does not know who is his—that he is famous. That is the most refreshing thing to him—she doesn't come on to him—and she is cautious but shows interest in him, Gray, a man, not an image. "Emory had lived, survived, and still was so innocent in so many ways."
"Trust me, I'm right where I want to be. I'm not looking either, but I'm not not looking as well."
"I'm glad you're wary because that means you protect yourself. I understand because that's my job, to help people defend themselves. I'm also glad you feel safe with me. Like I said the other night, I won't hurt you. No one will hurt you when you're with me. That's a promise."
The story will be the relationship of Gray and Emory—but they take things slow and easy. But this story also shows how caring Emory is for others—like Jackson Baker. Helping out a hurt child doesn't go unnoticed by Jackson's grandfather, Quake Baker, and he lets her know that she has his protection. When Emory falls into danger, someone breaking into her apartment, she will be rescued by Gray and Reed, but she will also have Quake coming to her aid.
"You have no idea, do you? The effect you have one people." –Gray
"Where have you been all this time?" I whispered, wondered."—Emory
"Waiting for you."--Gray
This story has the good, the bad, and the ugly of people. Emory's relationship with her ex has her doubting herself as a woman and not feeling comfortable entering a relationship. It will have Gray showing her, he is patient, and he isn't running away. It has a father who thrives on using threats and scares to manipulate people. It has a motorcycle club placing Emory in their protection—and dealing with troublemakers. But best of all, it is a beautiful, slow-burning, all-encompassing, heart-throbbing romance between two people, Gray and Emory.
"She was fresh air and sunshine and light and brightness, and she'd directed it all right one me.
The attraction, the chemistry between us was explosive, but it was more than that. It was some kind of connection that went bone-deep, soul-deep that I knew I would never be able to escape. I didn't want to."
As a loyal reader of Ms. Vale's books for years, there is just something extra about this new series that I love—the connection of the characters is so deep and moving--I can't wait for more in the series.
May 7, 2024
3 Stars
This book was NICE, not exactly what I expected going in. A good book if a nice romance is what you are after.
This book was NICE, not exactly what I expected going in. A good book if a nice romance is what you are after.
February 9, 2021
Strong and Steady is the first book in the More Than a Cowboy series. Emory is trying to figure out who she is now that her son is in college, but she never expects a cowboy like Gray want her. Gray is more than just a cowboy, professional MMA trainer with hang ups of his own, but he can’t deny the pull that Emory has on his heart. But when Emory is threatened and her life might be in danger, will Gray be able to keep her safe?
I liked that this was a little bit more of a slower-burn style romance than I was anticipating, but I loved it! The instant connection between Emory and Gray could be felt like electricity zinging between them, and while there was enough chemistry to cut like butter, I loved how much of a gentleman Gray was, regardless of his appearance and background. I might have a tiny crush on Gray, on how protective and caring and considerate he is. Never did I doubt his Alpha maleness, but I loved that from their very first interaction, he put Emory first. And she was pretty great, too. Emory feels insecurities from her ex, but she’s wanting to live outside of her “normal” and I loved that she pushed her own boundaries, but also knew when to be vulnerable and just as fiercely protective. Their interactions were swoon worthy, their connection felt honest and true, and I loved all of the drama they needed to deal with to find their happily ever after. The side characters in this book were fantastic, and I can only hope that they will show up in future books! I really enjoyed this book, and I can’t wait for more!
I liked that this was a little bit more of a slower-burn style romance than I was anticipating, but I loved it! The instant connection between Emory and Gray could be felt like electricity zinging between them, and while there was enough chemistry to cut like butter, I loved how much of a gentleman Gray was, regardless of his appearance and background. I might have a tiny crush on Gray, on how protective and caring and considerate he is. Never did I doubt his Alpha maleness, but I loved that from their very first interaction, he put Emory first. And she was pretty great, too. Emory feels insecurities from her ex, but she’s wanting to live outside of her “normal” and I loved that she pushed her own boundaries, but also knew when to be vulnerable and just as fiercely protective. Their interactions were swoon worthy, their connection felt honest and true, and I loved all of the drama they needed to deal with to find their happily ever after. The side characters in this book were fantastic, and I can only hope that they will show up in future books! I really enjoyed this book, and I can’t wait for more!
February 3, 2021
Strong and Steady is the first book in the More Than A Cowboy series by Vanessa Vale. It's a stand-alone but I got the feeling that it's connected to another book or series because I got the impression that some of the characters didn't have the introduction they would have normally gotten if they appeared for the first time. Emory and Gray's story ends in this book and probably we will see them again in Rough and Ready.
Other than the tiny character problem, everything was going on pretty well, until Emory got threatened and thought that somehow she was the one responsible for that instead of the person who actually brought the problematic people into her life. I cannot give any details because it's too far into the story because I already have given a lot of info and I don't want to ruin the entire book for you. It's just that Emory acted so weird and I was like "what are you doing girl? This clearly is not on you and you should run away for almost the opposite reason", but in retrospect, it wasn't so out of character, since she has the beaten down by life mindset and zero self-esteem. I wish we'd gotten a glimpse into a new Emory, with more confidence, who thought more of herself in this book and I hope that we will at least see that in the second book which is about Reed. Gray is a good character and he never made me doubt his feelings for Emory. He will truly do anything to protect his girl and I liked that.
Other than the tiny character problem, everything was going on pretty well, until Emory got threatened and thought that somehow she was the one responsible for that instead of the person who actually brought the problematic people into her life. I cannot give any details because it's too far into the story because I already have given a lot of info and I don't want to ruin the entire book for you. It's just that Emory acted so weird and I was like "what are you doing girl? This clearly is not on you and you should run away for almost the opposite reason", but in retrospect, it wasn't so out of character, since she has the beaten down by life mindset and zero self-esteem. I wish we'd gotten a glimpse into a new Emory, with more confidence, who thought more of herself in this book and I hope that we will at least see that in the second book which is about Reed. Gray is a good character and he never made me doubt his feelings for Emory. He will truly do anything to protect his girl and I liked that.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 219 reviews