Fighter's Second Chance

Crown MMA Romance #4

by A. Rivers

Our marriage crumbled three years ago, but I’m ready for a baby and I want him to be the father.

I’ve dreamed of being a mother, but so far, that dream has fallen flat. Now, my options are limited to choosing a dad from a catalog or sucking up my pride and asking my ex for help.

Seth Isles has all the charm of a bulldozer, but there’s no one else I’d rather have as my baby’s father. I’ve got nothing to offer, so I’m shocked when he agrees to my outrageous proposal.

The trouble is, the more time we spend together, the more I remember why we fell in love… and forget why it ended. Is this our second chance at happily ever after, or will we break each other all over again?

Genres: Second Chance, Romance, Sports, Sports Romance, Mixed Martial Arts, Contemporary, Audiobook

246 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 6, 2022

About the author

A. Rivers writes steamy romance books with take-charge heroes and strong heroines who aren't afraid to fight the odds for love. On the rare occasions when she ventures out of the writing cave, you can probably find her face down in a book, cuddling her pets, or planning her next overseas adventure with her husband.

If you'd like to keep up to date with her books and news, subscribe to her newsletter today!

Reviews

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

I have been curious what happened to Seth ever since he was teased in the previous books, about why he's acting weird. His and Ashlin's story is definitely more emotional, a trigger warning is definitely needed for pregnancy loss. But still beautiful nonetheless.

We finally know why they're divorced and now Ashlin is back in Seth's life but not in the way he had hoped for. Man, I loved watching how this big, rough on the edges guy can get vulnerable. They totally broke my heart but piece it right back because if they're meant to be, then they're meant to be even after a few years has passed and so much has happened between them.

[Tanja OMGReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Second chance is my jam and Seth and Ashlin gave me all the feels to really get into it. Prior to their divorce they suffered a great loss that they just couldn’t find a solid ground to come back from. But now 3 years have passed and Ashlin Is looking at Seth to help her. He has his second thoughts but when she sees how determined she is, he sees it as his second chance to get her back and he holds nothing back.

I loved that they both wanted to be and do better than the last time. The connection is still as strong as it was back then and the love was never really a question. So when the stars aline for them, magic happens and the HEA is finally in within reach and they latch to it wholeheartedly.

[WhiskeyandReading · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this as an advanced copy for a honest review. First let me say since Jases book I have been in love with Seth. Im pretty sure it was because of his grumpy side (dont judge me).

Reading this book gave me a better understanding for why Seth was the way he was and I honestly related with him. I loved how he didnt give up. I love how driven he is.

When I started reading Ashs side I started to get annoyed but later on understood her reasoning. I just cant imagine what she went through or how she felt.

Their ending was beautiful ❤

Now that I have done my review let me leave just a bit of advice - Never be ashamed to take the steps to become mentally healthier. Therapy is one of those steps.

[Trish- Late Knight Luna Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved this series from the very first book and I’m so happy Seth and Ashlin finally got their story.

Sean and Ashlin divorced three years after a miscarrige tore them apart. They both took time to heal and now Ashlin is ready to try and have a baby again. Even though they aren’t together anymore, Sean is the only one she wants to be the father. The two start the process of IVF and reconnecting as friends. However, they both are still very much in love with each other and we get to see the road back to their second chance.

I loved how relatable this book was. It does talk about miscarriages, stillborns and struggles with infertility. But it does it so respectfully and really shows you the other side of becoming a parent. Some have it so easy and a lot do not. Sean and Ashlin struggles become your struggles and you find yourself rooting for them. These two are meant to be together and Alexa Rivers does an amazing job telling their story. We get a sneak peak into what the next book could be and that makes me happy. This series has become one that I love and can’t wait to see where it goes next.

[Yasi · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️
Okay hear me out. I love Seth and ash they are perfect for each other and I loved the ending but the issue I had throughout the book was the writing style. It just kinda didn’t impress me and I think they got together rather quickly. I would have preferred a bit more slowburn although I do have to mention that l loved the fact they had character development considering they communicate so much better then before. I enjoyed the other books in this series a bit more and this is might my last book I’ll read from A.Rivers since the other books don’t really interest me.

[Kathleen Bradbury (Bulfon) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully written book with an interesting story line. The characters are strong, and the story flows quickly and smoothly. I enjoyed reading this story.

[Emma (emjbookshelf) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been waiting for Seth's story, Great second chance read.

[Gabriela Kozhuharova · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5

Maybe the best one in the series, but that's not saying much. All four books can be summarized as great idea, poor execution kind of deal.

[Read All About It · Rating 5 out of 5]

This second chance for Seth and Ashlin is heartbreaking and beautiful with all the feels you could ask for.

“Tell her that we’re giving ourselves a second chance but taking it slow and seeing where things go.”

It rips at your heart to find out more about there background and what happened to break them apart.

I have changed. And this version of me is capable of being in a relationship with a man like Seth, even when he gets bossy.

This is an amazing series and I can’t get enough.
All our favorites characters make an appearance but the main focus is on the couple and there struggles and hopes for a future. Tissue required!!

[Christie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow.. loved Fighters Second Chance! Seth and Ashlin connection is magical. Ashlin knows what she wants and sets out to get it. Seth ready to do anything to win her back is sweet.
Good read could not like the book down!

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic! Seth and Ashlin’s story is full of emotions that run the gamut. Seth and Ashlin were married and after she suffered a miscarriage they each grieved in different ways. He didn’t know how to show her support and she pushed him away. A lack of communication and her depression had them in a terrible spiral that ended up in divorce.

Neither of them have wanted to be with anyone else in the three years since their divorce was final and both have grown and gotten stronger in the interim. Ashlin approaches Seth about being the sperm donor for her to get pregnant via IVF. He is scared she’s not up to the emotional fallout if it doesn’t work or if she miscarried again, but he’s willing to do anything for her to give their relationships second chance.

These two characters’ hearts are still bruised from their failed marriage. Watching them work on slowly putting the pieces back together stronger and healthier than before is encouraging to see. The emotions their journey trigger in both of them is handled with a deft touch by the author.

This is a fantastic story and one I truly enjoyed reading. The author writes some fantastic male characters that are strong alpha’s with a protective and possessive streak a mile wide, but with the most amazing heart and love for their ladies.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[zayns wife · Rating 3 out of 5]

this was a good second chance romance.

seth was gone for. LIKE COMPLETELY

they were separated for three years, and he didn’t look at another woman, never mind touching them. definitely set the standards.

ashline, the fmc, her character and story genuinely hit me when i read it.

loved reading their book watching them rekindle their love. thr plot was sad but good.

[Cassandra · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had to be my least favorite of the series. I did like Seth, but the topic was very heavy. Then, add in the fact that these books are seemingly quick and light, you end up with something like this that seems to be both, which is a little confusing. There are things in there that don't really add to the story, things that are just ignored and left alone, and then the resolution that just felt odd.

I get that he didn't have a great childhood, but the whole thing with him refusing to go back to his hometown and then having issues with visiting his mom didn't feel like they added much to the story. The whole backstory with his mom and dad didn't feel necessary because other than the author telling us he had a bad childhood, it didn't really seem to bother him all that much as an adult.

My biggest problem was when he came across Trip at the part. Seriously, I don't know why he just let the guy walk off without actually saying something, especially since he seemed to want to get all buddy-buddy with Seth now that he is famous. I would have at least said something to him letting him know what a piece of crap he was. Instead, he just let the guy walk off, oblivious.

Then, we get to the end of the book. I guess now that they are back together and pregnant, that's all there is to it? There really wasn't much of an overarching story, other than they both had to grow a little while apart to be able to get back together. The plot just felt weak to me.
I won't be reading these again.

[Lauren · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25-3.5 stars

First off, I’m a sucker for a second chance romance. And Fighter’s Second Chance ticks some of those boxes for me. The blurb caught my attention from the jump, and I was intrigued to see where the author was going to take the narrative.

Without trying to give away too much, I’ll just say that I was surprised by the actual storyline of the book, because there’s a pretty heavy topic that is addressed that is kind of the overarching conflict, and I was not adequately prepared for it. (I’ll put a CW at the end of this review in case anyone is curious.)

I also felt like the ideas were there, but that the actual execution left me feeling a little dissatisfied. When I read a second chance, I want there to be a really compelling reason for them to split apart and an equally compelling reason for them to come back together. And this book might provide that for some, but it just didn’t quite work for me. Probably because I was so surprised that the blurb didn’t intimate anything regarding the main conflict. I did love how the heroine had a good support group of friends that had her back. We need more of those types of dynamics, please and thank you.

At any rate, if you enjoy an alpha hero and a heroine who is constantly maturing, this just might be the book for you.

CW: Pregnancy loss

Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Lenna Wright · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars
Not what I was expecting to read. The ‘2nd chance’ is buried in this story. These two lost a baby and that’s what their divorce was about but now 3 years later she wants a baby and she wants Seth to just hand over the swimmers and forget about a baby but the ex fighter isn’t that dumb. But it’s getting hard for me to keep reading when they all about trying for this baby, their struggles about the past what what the future might bring.
When I say it’s getting hard for me to read is that I have been wishing for a chance to be a mother, been struggling for the gift of life to happen when in fact God or the fates to spit in my face and decided I wants good enough to bring life into the world and fertility clinics is about money hungry as adoption agencies. Fostering isn’t possible with the economy and adopting its these companies want the parents to act, make and look a certain way and be rich. I’m 40 and my time is gone to have a child, find the man to help make that child. So forgive me when I say I have to skip around to get pass the topic that’s most painful. But so far I’m 8 chapters in and not much is really happening for a second chance.
Just finished reading. After all the mumbo-jumbo I got very emotional reading and mostly had to skim over we finally got down to the second chance, Seth winning over his ex Ashlin. Let’s say good old fashion way will bring these two back but Ash is stronger now then she was before rather she realized or not.
HFN ending since this is a interlocking series.

[Gin · Rating 3 out of 5]

The good: tackles the aftermath of miscarriage and the impact it can have on a marriage head-on. The main characters have identified the flaws/mistakes that led to their divorce and have worked to correct them. Ashlin demonstrates importance of seeing a therapist and developing support systems. Main characters talking about the importance of communication.

Unfortunately, this wasn't enough to engage me, and despite everything, I found it hard to empathize with Ashlin. I feel like I should feel bad saying that, considering everything the author throws at her, but I don't. Anyway, I didn't think she was being realistic about wanting to get pregnant (alone) when she wasn't even close to being done renovating her home (they touch on whether it's ok for her to be working on it while pregnant, but not about whether she'd have time to do it after she has a baby especially when she goes back to work). Also, renovating is expensive (even if you do some of the work yourself) and so is IVF-- I know Ashlin says she has savings, but I have also read about the average salaries of American teachers. I know there would be no guarantee that she'd get pregnant through IVF right away, but still.

I think part of my problem with Ashlin is that at the beginning, it was like, 'Hey ex-husband, your swimmers are good enough for me even though I divorced you.'

I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Spoilers* 3.75/5! I really enjoyed the premise of the book and thought it had a lot of potential! I believe it is important to mention that a central theme to the book is a previous miscarriage experienced by the couple as this would be triggering for some. The author did a beautiful job at exploring the grief experienced by both characters in relation to this loss. It is evident that the author completed extensive research in this area or perhaps has personal experience that supported the depth of writing on the characters experiences.

I struggled with Ashlin’s consistent insecurity and I feel as though there were missing details in relation to the breakdown of their first relationship. What did not fit for me was how they appeared to seamlessly rekindle their relationship with minimal issues when clearly the issues that they experienced before were so significant that it ended their relationship. Time apart can for sure heal but I feel their relationship would have been more realistic and relatable if there were more challenges in getting back together. Another minor point of feedback is on relation to the title and blurb of the book. My assumption was that his role as a fighter was more active/central to the story than it was. Overall I enjoyed the read and look forward to reading other books by this author.

[Ash Juillet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Booksprout for a copy of this book.

Trigger warning: miscarriage and mentions of stillbirth.

I assumed Seth and Ash were polar opposites from what the author had mentioned sparsely in the previous books, so seeing how they had changed over the years after their divorce was wonderful character development. I loved how Seth didn't hesitate to speak his mind despite thinking that he wasn't good at communicating with Ash; it was really sweet and adorable.

Learning about the characters' backstories is one thing, but seeing them go through the emotional pain of getting over their childhood/adulthood trauma is another, and the author did a great job at bringing everything together. Although I would have liked to see Seth confront his biological father, the heart-to-heart talk he had with his mother was heartwarming too.

Ash's friendship with Paige and Jessica was wonderful too. I loved how supportive they were of each other after having gone through the pain of losing their children.

I really loved this series and am looking forward to reading more books from this author.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review. This love story will take you on a ride of emotions. Ashlin and Seth were happily married until tragedy struck. It was a loss than neither one knew how to deal with let alone help the other. It caused their divorce and the unhappy years that followed. They are stronger now but the destruction of their past life together still colors their choices now. He wants his wife back and plans to do right by her this time. Ashlin has a goal in mind but can only imagine teaching it with him. That is the pivotal point in the new relationship they are developing. Finding out that their connection is different yet just as strong gives them a fountain to grow on. This time around they have to do it right. I enjoyed the story with the highs and lows. These two were meant to be but had a rough road getting there.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tehteh · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this audiobook generously from a contest, but you can BET I will be honesr. Sorry in advance for anything, Alexa! It's also my first contact with this author's work. though she is an absolute darling.

I'm a goner for any romance that includes fighters - boxing, MMA, whatever else - so that is the main reason I was drawn to A. Rivers. I know this is definitely not the first book in the series - I believe I have all of the others in my Kindle - but the opportunity presented itself, and I didn't feel the difference anyway.

It's a very unconventional story. Seth and Ashlin are exes, they have big old baggage. but she comes to him with an interesting proposal that brings their paths back together. I liked the plot, perhaps a tad bit predictable, but it works, and these characters are very full, I'd say, wirh emotion, humor. growth, clumsiness and wisdom.

The narrators weren't my favorite, especiallt when doing opposite sex voices, but I quite enjoyed it.

[Danee · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author has written a nice story, I thought this story was also a bit close to real life. The situation Ashlin and Seth are in can be experienced by any of us.

Seth and Ashlin were once married, but a miscarriage and grief broke up their marriage. But after a long period of time, the desire for a family of her own never disappeared and she wants to be another baby, the only person she would want as the father of her child is Seth. They may not be together anymore, but that doesn't stop Ashlin from asking Seth if he wants to be the father of her baby.

You are taken on an emotional journey by Seth and Ashlin, with Seth doing everything she can to get her back and to give her what she wants.
This book is a must read, you will not be disappointed!!

I have received an Advance Review Copy of this book through Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dawnmarie Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful second chance romance! Seth and Ashlin's story runs the gamut of emotions we truly go on an emotional roller-coaster with this couple. Seth and Ashlin were married and expecting a baby she suffers a miscarriage that they each grieve in different ways. She was depressed which led to them not communicating properly and that led to divorce. Now it's 3yrs later and neither want anyone else they've grown stronger when Ashlin comes to Seth to ask him for something that she's sure he's going to say no it's that outrageous. I don't want to say anymore and ruin it for anyone else with spoilers. You really need to read this wonderful story to see what happens. I would recommend reading this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Seth and Ashlin are the loves of each other lives. But sometimes, that’s not enough…at least the first time around. Due to a tragic loss during their marriage, neither of them could handle how they dealt with their grief. Because of this, Ashlin felt she needed space from Seth. Seth was blindsided. Three years later, Ashlin now needs Seth. And once again, he’s blindsided. These two have grown a lot in the years they were apart, and because of this, they were able to fight for a second chance. I loved these two. The brooding MMA fighter and the girl with the biggest heart learn they are still the love of each other’s lives. I loved reading about their relationship and can’t wait for the next fighter to get knocked out!

[Sharon Moritz-rosenthal · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a well written story. Its 4th in a series but it easily stands alone. I read the first two books and not the 3rd and I had no problem following a long. I really liked this authors writing style.

This is a second chance at romance and a baby for Seth and Ashlin who were previously married and lost a baby. It destroyed their marriage and now she is back, asking for another child but done with IVF. Seth sees this as his second chance and he wants her back so badly. But is Ashlin ready for that? You will have to read this story to find out.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful Second Chance . . .

This second chance for Seth and Ashlin is very special. They had a terrible tragedy that tore them apart, ending in divorce after a miscarriage. But after 3 years, Ashlin has a proposition to make to her ex-husband. Seth Isles is definitely surprised when she tells him she is now ready to have a baby and he is the one she wants to be the father of her child through IVF.

She doesn’t think he will agree to her request. But spending time together brings back memories of how good they were as a couple. Are they willing to risk another heartbreaking failure? Or can this be a second chance to have a child and bring their family back together?

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Seth and Ashlin’s story. These two suffered a tragic loss which tore them apart and they divorced, and now Ashlin wants a family and the only man she wants as the father is Seth, but will he help her? Seth is a successful MMA coach, and he is determined that this time Ashlin is not going to slip away from them having a second chance. This is a beautifully written story which is an emotional roller coaster, wit loss, healing, challenges, love, and is an entertaining and all-consuming page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Simran Patel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best second chance romance, I have read till now. The communication, the clarity, the healing, the acknowledgement and the time were all so perfect. i loved the fact that things made sense and I could relate so much with what Ashlin was feeling. That feeling of losing control and being helpless is so bad but you have to accept the fact that sometimes you would feel that way and that’s okay. Having a support system is really important but not all of us are lucky to have it, so try to be your own support system and use the tools that are available. If someone needs support please reach out to me🙌🏽

[Evy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve waited till this book came along!
I was very curious to get to know Seth on a different level. He may be a tough and rough guy but underneath it all he is just so caring and loving. I loved how he treated Ashlin. When we hear Ashlin’s side of the story I got annoyed with her but near the end it all makes sense.
I missed some of the other characters in the book, there wasn’t much interaction with them like in the previous ones.
But it is still a great series!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[P · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Ms Rivers for allowing me to read your book.

I really enjoyed this book, I especially enjoyed the chapter when Seth finally goes to Cedar Bend to visit his mother - it is a heartfelt and a very touching scene you’ve portrayed.
And I absolutely loved how you have expressed all the ups and downs that Seth and Ashlin have gone through, to get to a place where they are solid and can move on to their next chapter in life.
I also appreciated that you gave us an epilogue to tie the story up and not leave us guessing😊

I loved this series and I can’t wait to get my hands on Fighter’s Frenemy, Leo and Camila's story.

I received an ARC and I’m leaving my honest and voluntary review.

[Capt. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Seth is a gruff grumpy beast with a soft heart for Ashlin.
Ashlin is a soft sweet angel with a steely heart and determination when needed.

They so soo complement each other coupled it with second chance romance and it’s perfect.

You can feel that they grew so much and the way they approached their issues later on they communication is something I love since I’m so tired of miscommunication tropes.

I am also inlove that the main pursuer here is Seth which shows us a new side of his character we didn’t get to see in the previous books.